Prediction of Three-Dimensional Mineralization Using the Information Value Method: A Case Study of the Bainiuchang Ag Polymetallic Deposit, Southwest China

With the rapid development of computer and software technology, three-dimensional (3D) geological modeling has been increasingly used for mineralization prediction. In this study, based on the construction of a geological model for the Bainiuchang Ag polymetallic deposit using 3D modeling technology, an evaluation of the predicted geological factors and 3D mineralization potential were carried out using the information value method. The main favorable geological factors for mineralization in the mine area are the F3 fault, secondary faults, and middle Cambrian Tianpeng Formation. The information value of each predicted unit in the study area was calculated. Anomaly boundaries were quantified using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and fractal analysis, yielding an optimal threshold (information value > 2.6) for target delineation. Three high-priority exploration targets (A1, A2, and A3) were identified, demonstrating the efficacy of combining 3D modeling with probabilistic mineral prospectivity mapping. This approach provides a robust framework for deep and peripheral exploration in structurally complex deposits.