Study on multi-period palaeotectonic stress fields simulation and fractures distribution prediction in Lannigou gold mine, Guizhou

A significant controlling factor for gold mineralisation is the tectonic stress field, and the fractures formed under its action are the migration channels and ore-holding spaces of ore-forming fluids, which often directly control the migration and accumulation of ore-forming fluids. Therefore, performing quantitative prediction research on the distribution of fractures in the Guizhou, Lannigou gold deposit in order to identify potential fluid flow pathways is of utmost importance for ore prospecting in practical. In this study, a 3D geological entity model was generated based on the GOCAD platform by analysing and processing the geological data of the studied area, as well achieved is the accurate characterisation of the study area’s geometric model. By integrating regional tectonic evolution history analysis, geological interpretation, rock mechanics experiments and acoustic emission testing, the finite element method was utilised to create a 3D geomechanical model of the research area, the paleotectonic stress field after the Indosinian and Yanshanian movements were superimposed was simulated, in associated with the rock failure criterion, the comprehensive fracture rate parameter (Iz) is introduced to predict the fracture distribution. The results show that the research area’s maximum principal stress is primarily distributed between 153.85 and 189.53 MPa, and the maximum shear stress is between 83.53 and 98.42 MPa. The spatial distribution of faults influences the stress distribution characteristics significantly, and the stress level is relatively high at the intersection of the fault, the end of the fault and the vicinity of the fault zone, and the stress value between the faults is relatively low. The tectonic stress field primarily controls the distribution and development of fractures, which is usually consistent with the areas with high values of maximum principal stress and maximum shear stress. Using the combined modeling technique of GOCAD and midas GTS to realize the conversion from 3D geological model to geomechanical model, a set of comprehensive fracture distribution prediction technique for the superposition of multi-stage tectonic stress fields of mineral deposits in complex tectonic areas has been formed, and provide a reference for the prediction of fracture distribution in similar complex structural areas.