Geodynamic Simulation of the Pulang Porphyry Deposit in Southwest China: Implications for Ore Genesis and Exploration

Abstract

The giant Pulang porphyry copper deposit, located in the southern Yidun arc segment of southeastern Tibetan Plateau, represents one of the region’s largest mineral systems. This study employs numerical simulation to unravel its metallogenic processes. By integrating field-based geological observations with mineralogical and geochemical data, we developed a coupled model encompassing five key stages of ore formation. The simulation successfully reproduced thermal anomalies and accurately predicted the spatial distribution of mineralization zones at Pulang. Coupling dynamic modeling results with chalcopyrite precipitation rates and average Cu grades enabled quantitative estimation of deposit formation duration (0.99–1.22 Ma). Compared with conventional geochronological approaches, this process-constrained modeling framework provides unprecedented insights into the thermodynamic mechanisms controlling porphyry copper system evolution, offering valuable implications for regional exploration strategies.

Keywords

numerical simulation / duration of ore formation / ore deposit / Pulang / Tibetan Plateau

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