Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in
Book cover

Computer Applications in the Earth Sciences pp 181–198Cite as

Computer Applications in Exploration and Mining Geology: Ten Years of Progress

  • Chapter

  • 311 Accesses

Part of the book series: Computer Applications in the Earth Sciences ((CAES))

Abstract

Although many applications of computers to exploration and mining geology had been developed prior to 1969, their use and acceptance in mining was limited, even by the technologically advanced countries. Today, most mining companies and governmental agencies concerned with natural resources apply computers extensively.

During the decade, Matheron’s French geostatistics has undergone extensive theoretical expansion on the one hand, and reduction to understandable form, through several textbooks, on the other hand. Classical statistics for mining geology has been refined further as the result of many detailed applications with much feedback from industrial practice.

The manipulation by computer of large data bases has made possible a closer relationship between geology and mine systems analysis, and between geology and mining.

Whereas in 1969 the contribution of statistics and computers to geological exploration for mineral deposits was in its infancy, today these methods are used widely, although the most extensive applications are in the mining of known ore deposits. Particularly influential have been (1) the development of models for drillhole exploration and (2) operations research methods to conceptualize and organize exploration effort.

A significant step has been the development of many computer programs, some relatively large and complex, for the computer analysis of data from the mineral industry. Some of these programs are proprietary, but many have been published in technical journals.

Exploration geochemistry and geophysics grew at an explosive rate. Today, many computer applications have been made for the organization, display, and interpretation of these data.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution.

Chapter
USD   29.95
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
eBook
USD   39.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as EPUB and PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Softcover Book
USD   54.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Compact, lightweight edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Purchases are for personal use only

Learn about institutional subscriptions

Preview

Unable to display preview. Download preview PDF.

Unable to display preview. Download preview PDF.

References

  • Agterberg, F.P., 1975, Statistical models for the regional occurrence of mineral deposits: 13th APCOM, p. CI1–CI15.

    Google Scholar 

  • Agterberg, F.P., 1979, Statistics applied to facts and concepts in geoscience: Geol. en Mijnbouw, v. 58, no. 2, p. 201–208.

    Google Scholar 

  • Agterberg, F.P., Chung, C.F., Fabbri, A.G., Kelly, A.M., and Springer, J.S., 1971, Geomathematical evaluation of copper and zinc potential of the Abitibi area, Ontario and Quebec: Geol. Survey of Canada Paper 71-41, 55 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Agterberg, F.P., and Divi, S.R., 1978, A statistical model for the distribution of copper, lead, and zinc in the Canadian Appalachian region: Econ. Geology, v. 73, no. 2, p. 230–245.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Barouch, E., and Kaufman, G.M., 1917, Estimation of undiscovered oil and gas in mathematical aspects of production and distribution of energy: Proceedings of Symposium in Applied Mathematics, v. 21, Am. Math. Soc., p. 77–81.

    Google Scholar 

  • Baxter, G.G., Cargill, S.M., Chidester, A.H., Hart, P.E., Kaufman, G.M., and Urquidi-Barrau, F., 1978, Workshop on the Delphi method: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 10, no. 5, p. 581–588.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Beauchamp, J.J., Begovich, C.L., Kane, V.E., and Wolf, D.A., 1979, Application of discriminant analysis and generalized distance measures to uranium exploration: Union Carbide Technical Report K/UR-28, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, 58 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Bilodeau, M.L., and MacKenzie, B.W., 1977, The drilling investment decision in mineral exploration: 14th APCOM, p. 932–949.

    Google Scholar 

  • Botbol, J.M., Sinding-Larsen, R., McCammon, R.B., and Gott, G.B., 1978, A regionalized multivariate approach to target selection in geochemical exploration: Econ. Geology, v. 73, no. 4, p. 534–546.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Cargill, S.M., and Clark, A.L., eds., 1977, Standards for computer applications in resource studies: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 9, no. 3, p. 205–337.

    Google Scholar 

  • Cargill, S.M., and Clark, A.L., 1978, “Standards for computer applications in resource studies,” Project 98: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 10, no. 5, p. 405–642.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Celenk, O., Clark, A.L., de Vletter, D.R., Garrett, R.G., and van Staaldvinen, C, 1978, Workshop on abundance estimation: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 10, no. 5, p. 473–480.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Champigny, N., Sanders, K.G., and Sinclair, A.J., 1980, Sepcogna gold deposit of Consolidated Cinola Mines-an example of structured property exploration: Western Miner, June, p. 35–44.

    Google Scholar 

  • Chung, C.F., 1978, Computer program for the logistic model to estimate the probability of occurrence of discrete events: Geol. Survey of Canada Paper 78-11, 23 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Clark, I., 1979, Practical geostatistics: Applied Sci. Publ., Ltd., London, 129 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • David, M., 1977, Geostatistical ore reserve estimation: Elsevier Sci. Publ. Co., Amsterdam, 364 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • de Wijs, H.J., 1972, Method of successive differences applied to mine sampling: Trans. I.M.M., v. 81, p. A78–A81.

    Google Scholar 

  • Drew, L.J., 1979, Pattern drilling exploration: optimum pattern types and hole spacings when searching for elliptical shaped targets: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 11, no. 2, p. 223–254.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Drew, L.J., Schuenemeyer, J.H., and Root, D.H., 1980, Resource appraisal and discovery rate forecasting in partially explored regions: Part A, an application to the Denver Basin: U.S. Geol. Survey Prof. Paper 1138, 13 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Eckstrand, O.R., 1977, Mineral resource appraisal and mineral deposits computer files in the Geological Survey of Canada: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 9, no. 3, p. 235–244.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Gabelman, J.W., 1976, Expectations from uranium exploration: Am. Assoc. Petroleum Geologists, v. 60, no. 11, p. 1993–2004.

    Google Scholar 

  • Garrett, R.G., 1979, Sampling considerations for regional geochemical surveys, in Current research, part A, Geol. Survey of Canada Paper 79-1a, p. 197–205.

    Google Scholar 

  • Gaucher, E., and Gagnon, D.C., 1973, Compilation and quantification of exploration data for computer studies in exploration strategy: Can. Inst. Min. Met. Bull., Sept., p. 113–117.

    Google Scholar 

  • Gill, D., Beylin, J., Boehm, S., Frendel, Y., and Rosenthal, E., 1977, Design of geological data systems for developing nations: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 9, no. 2, p. 145–158.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Govett, G.J.S., 1972, Interpretation of a rock geochemical exploration survey in Cyprus — statistical and graphical techniques: Jour. Geochem Expl., v. 1, no. 1, p. 77–102.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Govett, G.J.S., Goodfellow, W.D., Chapman, R.P., and Chork, C.Y., 1975, Exploration geochemistry — distribution of elements and recognition of anomalies: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 7, no. 5/6, p. 415–446.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Griffiths, J.C., 1974, Quantification and the future of geosciences: Syracuse Univ. Geology Contr. 2, p. 51–66.

    Google Scholar 

  • Griffiths, J.C., 1978, Mineral resource assessment using the unit regional value concept: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 10, no. 5, p. 441–472.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Griffiths, J.C., and Singer, D.A., 1973, Size, shape and arrangement of some uranium ore bodies: 11th APCOM, p. B82–B1112.

    Google Scholar 

  • Guarascio, M., and Turchi, A., 1976, Exploration data management and evaluation techniques for uranium mining projects: 14th APCOM, p. 451–464.

    Google Scholar 

  • Harris, D.P., 1973, A subjective probability appraisal of metal endowment of Northern Sonora, Mexico: Econ. Geology, v. 68, no. 2, p. 222–242.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Harris, D.P., 1977, Mineral endowment, resources, and potential supply: theory, methods for appraisal, and case studies: MINRESCO, TUSCON, Arizona, various pages.

    Google Scholar 

  • Harris, D.P., and Brock, T.N., 1973, A conceptual bayesian geostatistical model for metal endowment: 11th APCOM, p. B113–B184.

    Google Scholar 

  • Howarth, R.J., Koch, G.S., Jr., Chork, C.Y., Carpenter, R.H., and Schuenemeyer, J.H., 1980, Statistical map analysis techniques applied to regional distribution of uranium in stream sediment samples from the southeastern United States for the National Uranium Resources Evaluation Program: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 12, in press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Journel, A.G., and Huijbregts, C., 1978, Mining geostatistics: Academic Press, New York, 600 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Kingston, G.A., David, M., Meyer, R.F., Ovenshine, A.T., Slamet, S., and Schanz, J.J., 1978, Workshop on volumetric estimation: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 10, no. 5, p. 495–500.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Koch, G.S., Jr., 1969, Computer applications in mining geology, in Merriam, D.F., ed., Computer applications in the earth sciences: Plenum Press, New York, p. 121–140.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Koch, G.S., Jr., Link, R.F., and Schuenemeyer, J.H., 1974, A mathematical model to guide the discovery of ore bodies in a Coeur d’Alene lead-silver mine: U.S. Bureau of Mines, Rept. Invest. No. 7989, 43 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Krige, D.G., 1977, The human element in APCOM’s development: 15th APCOM. p. 1–6.

    Google Scholar 

  • Krige, D.G., 1978, Lognormal-de Wijsian geostatistics for ore evaluation: South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy Monograph Series, Geostatistics 1, 50 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Mackenzie, B.W., 1972, Corporate exploration strategies: 10th APCOM, p. 1–8.

    Google Scholar 

  • Mackenzie, B.W., 1972, and Bilodeau, M.L., 1977, A model to assess the economic characteristics of base metal investment in Canada: 15th APCOM, p. 463–470.

    Google Scholar 

  • Malmqvist, K., and Malmqvist, L., 1979, A feasibility study of exploration for deep-seated sulphide ore bodies: 16th APCOM, p. 25–37.

    Google Scholar 

  • Matheron, G., 1962, Traite de geostatistique appliquee: Editions Technip, Paris, Tome 1 (1962), 334 p.; Tome 2 (1963), 172 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • McCammon, R.B., 1974, The statistical treatment of geochemical data, in Levinson, A.A., Introduction to exploration geochemistry, Applied Publishing, Ltd., Calgary, Canada, p. 469–508.

    Google Scholar 

  • McCammon, R.B., Botbol, J.M., and McCarthy, J.H., 1979, Drillsite favorability for concealed porphyry copper prospect. Rowe Canyon, Nevada based on characteristic analysis of geochemical anomalies: Fall Meeting, Soc. Mining Engineers, Tucson, Arizona, preprint, 13 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Menzie, W.D., Labovitz, M.L., and Griffiths, J.C., 1976, Evaluation of mineral resources and the unit regional value concept: 14th APCOM, p. 322–339.

    Google Scholar 

  • Merriam, D.F., 1980, Some future developments in geology: Nature and Resources, v. 16, no. 2, p. 2–5.

    Google Scholar 

  • Miesch, A.T., 1976, Geochemical survey of Missouri — methods of sampling, laboratory analysis, and reproduction of data: U.S. Geol. Survey Prof. Paper 954-A, 39 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Miller, B.M., Thomsen, H.L., Dolton, G.L., Coury, A.B., Henricks, T.A., Lennartz, F.E., Powers, R.B., Sable, E.G., and Varnes, K.L., 1975, Geological estimates of undiscovered recoverable oil and gas resources in the United States: U.S. Geol. Survey Circ. 725, 78 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Parker, D.H., and Switzer, P., 1975, Use of conditional probability distributions in ore reserve estimation: 13th APCOM, p. MII1–MII16.

    Google Scholar 

  • Parker, H.M., Journel, A.G., and Dixon, W.C., 1979, The use of conditional lognormal probability distribution for the estimation of open-pit ore reserves in stratabound uranium deposits — a case study: 16th APCOM, p. 133–148.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rendu, J.M., 1978, An introduction to geostatistical methods for mineral evaluation: Monograph, South African Inst. Min. Metall., Johannesburg, 100 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Robinson, S.C., 1972, The role of a data base in modern geology, in Merriam, D.F., ed., The impact of quantification in geology: Syracuse Univ. Geology Contr. 2, p. 67–82.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rose, A.W., Hawkes, H.E., and Webb, J.S., 1979, Geochemistry in mineral exploration: Academic Press, New York, 657 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Shurygin, A.M., 1976, The probability of finding deposits and some optimal search grids: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 8, no. 3, p. 323–330.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Sichel, H.S., 1972, Statistical valuation of diamondiferous deposits: 10th APCOM, p. 17–25.

    Google Scholar 

  • Sinclair, A.J., 1976, Application of probability graphs in mineral exploration: Spec. Vol. no. 4, Association of Exploration Geochemists, 95 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Sinding-Larsen, R., and Vokes, F.M., 1978, The use of deposit modelling in the assessment of potential resources as exemplified by Caledonian stratabound sulfide deposits: Jour. Math. Geology, v. 10, no. 5, p. 565–580.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Singer, D.A., 1975, Relative efficiencies of square and triangular grids in the search for elliptically shaped resource targets: U.S. Geol. Survey, Jour. Research, v. 3, no. 2, p. 163–167.

    Google Scholar 

  • Singer, D.A., and Ovenshine, A.T., Assessing metallic resources in Alaska: Am. Scientist, v. 67, no. 5, p. 582–589.

    Google Scholar 

  • Thompson, G.G., 1975, A computer-oriented minerals availability system: 13th APCOM, p. GII1–GII14.

    Google Scholar 

  • Tukey, J.W., 1977, Exploratory data analysis: Addison-Wesley, Reading, Massachusetts, 499 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • U.S. Geol. Survey and U.S. Bureau of Mines, 1976, Principles of the mineral resource classification system of the U.S. Bureau of Mines and U.S. Geological Survey: U.S. Geol. Survey Bull. 1450-A, p. A1–A5.

    Google Scholar 

  • Webb, J.S., Thornton, I., Thompson, M., Howarth, R.J., and Lowenstein, P.L., 1978, The Wolfson geochemical atlas of England and Wales: Clarendon Press, Oxford, 69 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Weiss, A., ed., 1979a, Computer methods for the 80’s: Soc. Mining Engineers, New York, 975 p.

    Google Scholar 

  • Weiss, A., 1979b, Mining information systems planning and project management, introductory review, in Weiss, A., ed., Computer methods for the 80’s: Soc. Mining Engineers, New York, p. 1–2.

    Google Scholar 

  • Weiss, A., 1979c, Project management in mineral information technology, in Weiss, A., ed., Computer methods for the 80’s, Soc. Mining Engineers, New York, p. 15–30.

    Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Georgia, USA

    G. S. Koch Jr.

Authors
  1. G. S. Koch Jr.
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Geology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York, USA

    Daniel F. Merriam (Jessie Page Heroy Professor of Geology) (Jessie Page Heroy Professor of Geology)

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 1981 Plenum Press, New York

About this chapter

Cite this chapter

Koch, G.S. (1981). Computer Applications in Exploration and Mining Geology: Ten Years of Progress. In: Merriam, D.F. (eds) Computer Applications in the Earth Sciences. Computer Applications in the Earth Sciences. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4684-7732-0_10

Download citation

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4684-7732-0_10

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Boston, MA

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-4684-7734-4

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4684-7732-0

  • eBook Packages: Springer Book Archive

Publish with us

Policies and ethics

Search

Navigation