Spatial and temporal distribution of stratabound Pb-Zn deposits in the Tibetan Plateau and its surrounding areas

The Paleozoic-Mesozoic multi-arc basin system and the tectonic framework of Cenozoic rapid uplift in the Tibetan plateau have resulted in specific temporal and spatial distribution of the Pb-Zn deposits and zoning of mineralization and led to the phenomenon that different tectonic units have different specific ore species. The stratabound Pb-Zn deposits in the study area are characterized by multi-epoch mineralization, with the Cambrian and the Devonian strata being the main ore-hosting horizons. Moreover, lots of lithofacies containing Pb-Zn deposits were formed during that period, and the carbonate platform facies was the advantageous ore-controlling facies, with dolomites as the main ore-bearing rocks. Large to superlarge Cenozoic lead-zinc ore bodies were also discovered in the study area, which were assigned to low-temperature thermal brine migration-filling type ore deposits. The authors hold that the uplift of the Tibetan Plateau in the Cenozoic might be an important factor responsible for the enrichment of this type of lead-zinc deposits. It is believed that so long as detailed studies are conducted, these Cenozoic ore deposits in the study area will show tremendous ore-prospecting potential.