Metallogenic models as the key to successful exploration — a review and trends

Abstract Metallogeny is the science of ore and mineral deposit formation in geological space time. interdisciplinary by nature, comprising elements natural disciplines such as planetology to solid state physics chemistry, volcanology. It experimental forefront research bold thinking, based on an ever-growing foundation knowledge. Therefore, metallogeny not a closed system knowledge but fast-growing assemblage structured unstructured information perpetual flux. This paper intends review its current trends. The latter may introduce speculation fuzziness. has existed for over 100 years branch Earth Science. From discovery plate tectonics (ca. 1950) end last century, passed through worldwide phase formally published ‘metallogenetic’ maps. In decades, rapidly growing number scientists, digitization splendid new tools fundamentally boosted research. More innovations be expected use evolving systematic ‘Geodata Science’ metallogenic increasingly global human talent pool. Future requirements metallic raw materials, especially critical compounds that are needed nascent carbon-free economy, already drive activities stock markets resource industry. State surveys, academia private companies embrace challenges. age requires intensified backing. this paper, principles recalled concerning concepts terms. A classification deposits proposed, intimate relations metallogenesis with geodynamics sketched (ancient lid modern tectonics). Metallogenic models assemble great diversity data allow ever better understanding formation, foremost illuminating source-to-trap migration metals, petrogenetic geodynamic–tectonic setting, spatial architecture nature precise timing involved processes. Applied allows choose strategy tactics exploration investment planning work. Based comprehensive knowledge, analysis (MSA) selects those complex models, which detectable can guide order support applications prospectivity mapping, potential evaluation targeting detailed investigations. MSA founded applied across whole continents, or at scale regional greenfield search, brownfields district camp scale. By delivering fundamental keys MSA, supported unceasing innovative research, stream insights essential improving endowment estimates successful exploration.