Spatial-temporal distribution characteristics and ore-controlling factors of Quaternary potash deposits on the Tibetan Plateau

The Tibetan Plateau is an important producing area of potash salt deposits, which are mainly distributed in Qaidam Basin and Qiangtang Plateau inland lake basin. The water chemical types of the salt lake show obvious zoning from north to south. In Qaidam Basin, water chemistry has evolved into magnesium sulfate- chloride type, and the potash salt resources were formed in varied periods, with brine potash salt accounting for the main part, characterized by the coexistence of solid and liquid. In Qiangtang Plateau inland lake basin, water chemistry is of carbonate-sulfate type, and the potash salt mainly exists in brine. Based on a comprehensive analysis of spatial-temporal distribution, the authors performed a further analysis of the ore-controlling factors such as the source of ore-forming materials, tectonic geomorphology and climate. It is shown that the ore-forming materials were mainly obtained form strata and deep water supply, the tectonic geomorphology determined the transportation and enrichment of the materials, and the climate severely impacted the formation and preservation of potash salt resources.