Metallogenic characteristics and resource potential estimation of sedimentary type phosphorite deposits in Yunnan Province

Based on previous researches on characteristics of regional sedimentary type phosphorite mineralization and typical deposits, the authors summarized minerogenetic, geochemical and lithofacies-paleogeographic characteristics of sedimentary type phosphorite deposits in Yunnan Province and analyzed the major ore-controlling factors. On such a basis, a regional ore-forming model was established. The comprehensive localization and quantitative estimation of sedimentary type phosphorite resources in Yunnan Province were carried out by GIS-based deposit modeling comprehensive geological information prediction model. As a result, 130 minimum tracts were delineated, and potential resources amount was estimated at about 12.198 billion tons. These results are of significant indicative significance for further prospecting of this type of phosphorite resources.