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Michael Becken
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1
Journal article
(2025)
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Yue Sheng, Sheng Jin, Zengqian Hou, Matthew J. Comeau, Michael Becken, Wenbo Wei, Gaofeng Ye, Letian Zhang, Hao Dong, More authors...
Since the Cenozoic, a series of extensional south-north normal faults and gneiss-granite domes evolved in the southern Tibetan Plateau, the formation mechanism of which is of scientific interest and which has implications for the tectonic dynamics of the plateau. Typical of such features are the Xainza-Dinggye rift and the Mabja gneiss dome, which are located in the Xainza-Xietongmen-Dinggye region in the central Tibetan Plateau. In this study, Magnetotelluric measurements across this region are used to generate a high-resolution 3-D electrical resistivity model of the subsurface and to analyze the cause of the conductive zones. The large-scale conductive zones identified in the middle-lower crust may result from aqueous melt partial melting, whereas the smaller-scale conductive zones in the upper-middle crust may result from saline fluids, possibly with varying minor volumes of melts. Subsequently, based on the electrical resistivity model and combined with the spatiotemporal coupling of the geological, geochemical, and geophysical data, the state and migration features of crustal materials are discussed. The results show that the upwelling of mantle materials along subduction channels and slab-windows related to the tearing of the Indian lithospheric plate contributed to the partial melting of the middle-lower crust in the Lhasa terrane. Furthermore, partial melting of the upper-middle crust in the Tethys-Himalaya terrane resulted from southern extrusion of crustal materials in the Lhasa terrane. These two mechanisms can significantly reduce the effective viscosity. We speculate that the deformation of the brittle upper crust that is controlled by large-scale ductile layers characterized by weak rheology is the main dynamic mechanism of rift evolution. Meanwhile, the metamorphism and anatexis in the upper-middle crust of the Tethys-Himalaya terrane related to the southern extrusion of materials contributed to the evolution of the Mabja gneiss dome. During the middle Miocene, the southern extrusion of crustal materials may have been influenced by the cooling events beneath the Mabja gneiss dome, which can explain why the deep areas beneath the Mabja gneiss dome have middle-high resistivity. In addition, our study region is located in the Mediterranean-Himalayan seismic belt, and mainly includes shallow-focus earthquakes and intermediate-depth earthquakes. In the north, shallow-focus earthquakes are mainly controlled by the accumulation of stress in the brittle layer of the overlying crust related to the ductile layer of the middle and lower crust. In the south, shallow-focus earthquakes (e.g., Dingri MS6.8 earthquake) mainly occur in the rigid, resistive block, which is surrounded by conductive zones, possibly because fluid migration may be hindered by these resistive blocks. The intermediate-depth earthquakes are mainly controlled by the response in the subsurface area, which is related to the detachment of the Indian lithospheric mantle from the Indian crust.
...
Since the Cenozoic, a series of extensional south-north normal faults and gneiss-granite domes evolved in the southern Tibetan Plateau, the formation mechanism of which is of scientific interest and which has implications for the tectonic dynamics of the plateau. Typical of such features are the Xainza-Dinggye rift and the Mabja gneiss dome, which are located in the Xainza-Xietongmen-Dinggye region in the central Tibetan Plateau. In this study, Magnetotelluric measurements across this region are used to generate a high-resolution 3-D electrical resistivity model of the subsurface and to analyze the cause of the conductive zones. The large-scale conductive zones identified in the middle-lower crust may result from aqueous melt partial melting, whereas the smaller-scale conductive zones in the upper-middle crust may result from saline fluids, possibly with varying minor volumes of melts. Subsequently, based on the electrical resistivity model and combined with the spatiotemporal coupling of the geological, geochemical, and geophysical data, the state and migration features of crustal materials are discussed. The results show that the upwelling of mantle materials along subduction channels and slab-windows related to the tearing of the Indian lithospheric plate contributed to the partial melting of the middle-lower crust in the Lhasa terrane. Furthermore, partial melting of the upper-middle crust in the Tethys-Himalaya terrane resulted from southern extrusion of crustal materials in the Lhasa terrane. These two mechanisms can significantly reduce the effective viscosity. We speculate that the deformation of the brittle upper crust that is controlled by large-scale ductile layers characterized by weak rheology is the main dynamic mechanism of rift evolution. Meanwhile, the metamorphism and anatexis in the upper-middle crust of the Tethys-Himalaya terrane related to the southern extrusion of materials contributed to the evolution of the Mabja gneiss dome. During the middle Miocene, the southern extrusion of crustal materials may have been influenced by the cooling events beneath the Mabja gneiss dome, which can explain why the deep areas beneath the Mabja gneiss dome have middle-high resistivity. In addition, our study region is located in the Mediterranean-Himalayan seismic belt, and mainly includes shallow-focus earthquakes and intermediate-depth earthquakes. In the north, shallow-focus earthquakes are mainly controlled by the accumulation of stress in the brittle layer of the overlying crust related to the ductile layer of the middle and lower crust. In the south, shallow-focus earthquakes (e.g., Dingri MS6.8 earthquake) mainly occur in the rigid, resistive block, which is surrounded by conductive zones, possibly because fluid migration may be hindered by these resistive blocks. The intermediate-depth earthquakes are mainly controlled by the response in the subsurface area, which is related to the detachment of the Indian lithospheric mantle from the Indian crust.
青藏高原南部申扎-定结裂谷深部物质运移特征及孕震环境
来自三维电阻率模型提供的证据
Journal article
(2025)
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Yue Sheng, Sheng Jin, Chengliang Xie, Jian’en Jing, Zengqian Hou, Matthew J. Comeau, Michael Becken, Wenbo Wei, Gaofeng Ye, Letian Zhang, Hao Dong, Yoatin Yin
Since the Cenozoic, a series of extensional south-north normal faults and gneiss-granite domes evolved in the southern Tibet Plateau, the formation mechanism of which is of scientific interest and which has implications for the tectonic dynamics of the plateau. Typical of such features are the Xainza-Dinggye rift and the Mabja gneiss dome, which are located in the Xainza-Xietongmen-Dinggye region in central Tibet. In this study, Magnetotelluric measurements across this region are used to generate a high-resolution 3-D electrical resistivity model of the subsurface and to analyze the cause of the conductive zones. The large-scale conductive zones identified in the middle-lower crust may result from aqueous melt partial melting, whereas the smaller-scale conductive zones in the upper-middle crust may result from saline fluids, possibly with varying minor volumes of melts. Subsequently, based on the electrical resistivity model, and combined with the spatiotemporal coupling of the geological, geochemical and geophysical data, the state and migration features of crustal materials are discussed. The results show that the upwelling of mantle materials along subduction channels and slab-windows related to the tearing of the Indian lithospheric plate contributed to the partial melting of the middle-lower crust in the Lhasa terrane. Furthermore, partial melting of the upper-middle crust in the Tethys-Himalaya terrane resulted from southern extrusion of crustal materials in the Lhasa terrane. These two mechanisms can significantly reduce the effective viscosity. We speculate that the deformation of the brittle upper crust that is controlled by large-scale ductile layers characterized by weak rheology is the main dynamic mechanism of rift evolution. Meanwhile, the metamorphism and anatexis in the upper-middle crust of the Tethys-Himalaya terrane related to the southern extrusion of materials contributed to the evolution of the Mabja gneiss dome. During the middle Miocene, the southern extrusion of crustal materials may have been influenced by the cooling events beneath the Mabja gneiss dome, which can explain why the deep areas beneath the Mabja gneiss dome have middle-high resistivity. In addition, our study region is located in the Mediterranean-Himalayan seismic belt, and mainly includes shallow-focus earthquakes and intermediate-depth earthquakes. In the north, shallow-focus earthquakes are mainly controlled by the accumulation of stress in the brittle layer of the overlying crust related to the ductile layer of the middle and lower crust. In the south, shallow-focus earthquakes (e.g., Dingri Ms 6.8 earthquake) mainly occur in the rigid, resistive block, which is surrounded by conductive zones, possibly because fluid migration may be hindered by these resistive blocks. The intermediate-depth earthquakes are mainly related to the detachment of the Indian lithospheric mantle from the Indian crust.
...
Since the Cenozoic, a series of extensional south-north normal faults and gneiss-granite domes evolved in the southern Tibet Plateau, the formation mechanism of which is of scientific interest and which has implications for the tectonic dynamics of the plateau. Typical of such features are the Xainza-Dinggye rift and the Mabja gneiss dome, which are located in the Xainza-Xietongmen-Dinggye region in central Tibet. In this study, Magnetotelluric measurements across this region are used to generate a high-resolution 3-D electrical resistivity model of the subsurface and to analyze the cause of the conductive zones. The large-scale conductive zones identified in the middle-lower crust may result from aqueous melt partial melting, whereas the smaller-scale conductive zones in the upper-middle crust may result from saline fluids, possibly with varying minor volumes of melts. Subsequently, based on the electrical resistivity model, and combined with the spatiotemporal coupling of the geological, geochemical and geophysical data, the state and migration features of crustal materials are discussed. The results show that the upwelling of mantle materials along subduction channels and slab-windows related to the tearing of the Indian lithospheric plate contributed to the partial melting of the middle-lower crust in the Lhasa terrane. Furthermore, partial melting of the upper-middle crust in the Tethys-Himalaya terrane resulted from southern extrusion of crustal materials in the Lhasa terrane. These two mechanisms can significantly reduce the effective viscosity. We speculate that the deformation of the brittle upper crust that is controlled by large-scale ductile layers characterized by weak rheology is the main dynamic mechanism of rift evolution. Meanwhile, the metamorphism and anatexis in the upper-middle crust of the Tethys-Himalaya terrane related to the southern extrusion of materials contributed to the evolution of the Mabja gneiss dome. During the middle Miocene, the southern extrusion of crustal materials may have been influenced by the cooling events beneath the Mabja gneiss dome, which can explain why the deep areas beneath the Mabja gneiss dome have middle-high resistivity. In addition, our study region is located in the Mediterranean-Himalayan seismic belt, and mainly includes shallow-focus earthquakes and intermediate-depth earthquakes. In the north, shallow-focus earthquakes are mainly controlled by the accumulation of stress in the brittle layer of the overlying crust related to the ductile layer of the middle and lower crust. In the south, shallow-focus earthquakes (e.g., Dingri Ms 6.8 earthquake) mainly occur in the rigid, resistive block, which is surrounded by conductive zones, possibly because fluid migration may be hindered by these resistive blocks. The intermediate-depth earthquakes are mainly related to the detachment of the Indian lithospheric mantle from the Indian crust.
Regional magnetotellurics across Mongolia
Constraining lithospheric properties and architecture
Abstract
(2024)
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Rafael Rigaud, Matthew J. Comeau, Erdenechimeg Batmagnai, Mikhail Kruglyakov, Alexey Kuvshinov, Michael Becken, Hannah Treppke, Johanna Plett, Shoovdor Tserendug, Sodnomsambuu Demberel
Mongolia is a region of major scientific relevancy because it is a prime example of continental intraplate surface deformation, which is poorly studied and not well understood. There are open questions regarding the tectonic evolution of the region, including the closure of the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean and subsequent re-arrangement, the development of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, and the genesis of the Khangai Dome and Mongolian Plateau.
Previous magnetotelluric (MT) field campaigns (2016-2018: 328 MT sites) across the Khangai Dome (Central Mongolia) imaged a localized asthenospheric upwelling with a corresponding thin lithosphere and fluid-rich domains within the lower crust. In this study, we report on new MT data consisting of 378 MT sites installed across Mongolia, west and east of Central Mongolia, from 2020 to 2023. This extended survey area now includes approximately 700 magnetotelluric measurements collected over a total area of approximately 1000 km by more than 1150 km, similar in scope to other national survey programs.
We use MT responses (impedances) estimated from both the previous and new measurements to generate a new, regional-scale, 3-D electrical conductivity model of more than half of Mongolia, using an open-access forward and inverse solver (GEMMIE), based on an integral equation approach. The new data were processed by employing, in particular, a multi-taper approach to improve the estimated MT responses at long periods.
The new 3-D model reveals lithospheric high-conductivity anomalies consistent with the main geological and tectonic features of Mongolia and indicates that the lithospheric anomalies previously imaged below Central Mongolia extend further westward but are bounded to the east by the Mogod fault system. It also reveals significant lithospheric-scale boundaries separating the northern and southern regions within Eastern and Western Mongolia. Furthermore, it establishes links between high-conductivity anomalies in the lower lithosphere with features of scientific and economic interest, such as fault or suture systems, important mineral zones, and intraplate volcanism. ...
Previous magnetotelluric (MT) field campaigns (2016-2018: 328 MT sites) across the Khangai Dome (Central Mongolia) imaged a localized asthenospheric upwelling with a corresponding thin lithosphere and fluid-rich domains within the lower crust. In this study, we report on new MT data consisting of 378 MT sites installed across Mongolia, west and east of Central Mongolia, from 2020 to 2023. This extended survey area now includes approximately 700 magnetotelluric measurements collected over a total area of approximately 1000 km by more than 1150 km, similar in scope to other national survey programs.
We use MT responses (impedances) estimated from both the previous and new measurements to generate a new, regional-scale, 3-D electrical conductivity model of more than half of Mongolia, using an open-access forward and inverse solver (GEMMIE), based on an integral equation approach. The new data were processed by employing, in particular, a multi-taper approach to improve the estimated MT responses at long periods.
The new 3-D model reveals lithospheric high-conductivity anomalies consistent with the main geological and tectonic features of Mongolia and indicates that the lithospheric anomalies previously imaged below Central Mongolia extend further westward but are bounded to the east by the Mogod fault system. It also reveals significant lithospheric-scale boundaries separating the northern and southern regions within Eastern and Western Mongolia. Furthermore, it establishes links between high-conductivity anomalies in the lower lithosphere with features of scientific and economic interest, such as fault or suture systems, important mineral zones, and intraplate volcanism. ...
Mongolia is a region of major scientific relevancy because it is a prime example of continental intraplate surface deformation, which is poorly studied and not well understood. There are open questions regarding the tectonic evolution of the region, including the closure of the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean and subsequent re-arrangement, the development of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, and the genesis of the Khangai Dome and Mongolian Plateau.
Previous magnetotelluric (MT) field campaigns (2016-2018: 328 MT sites) across the Khangai Dome (Central Mongolia) imaged a localized asthenospheric upwelling with a corresponding thin lithosphere and fluid-rich domains within the lower crust. In this study, we report on new MT data consisting of 378 MT sites installed across Mongolia, west and east of Central Mongolia, from 2020 to 2023. This extended survey area now includes approximately 700 magnetotelluric measurements collected over a total area of approximately 1000 km by more than 1150 km, similar in scope to other national survey programs.
We use MT responses (impedances) estimated from both the previous and new measurements to generate a new, regional-scale, 3-D electrical conductivity model of more than half of Mongolia, using an open-access forward and inverse solver (GEMMIE), based on an integral equation approach. The new data were processed by employing, in particular, a multi-taper approach to improve the estimated MT responses at long periods.
The new 3-D model reveals lithospheric high-conductivity anomalies consistent with the main geological and tectonic features of Mongolia and indicates that the lithospheric anomalies previously imaged below Central Mongolia extend further westward but are bounded to the east by the Mogod fault system. It also reveals significant lithospheric-scale boundaries separating the northern and southern regions within Eastern and Western Mongolia. Furthermore, it establishes links between high-conductivity anomalies in the lower lithosphere with features of scientific and economic interest, such as fault or suture systems, important mineral zones, and intraplate volcanism.
Previous magnetotelluric (MT) field campaigns (2016-2018: 328 MT sites) across the Khangai Dome (Central Mongolia) imaged a localized asthenospheric upwelling with a corresponding thin lithosphere and fluid-rich domains within the lower crust. In this study, we report on new MT data consisting of 378 MT sites installed across Mongolia, west and east of Central Mongolia, from 2020 to 2023. This extended survey area now includes approximately 700 magnetotelluric measurements collected over a total area of approximately 1000 km by more than 1150 km, similar in scope to other national survey programs.
We use MT responses (impedances) estimated from both the previous and new measurements to generate a new, regional-scale, 3-D electrical conductivity model of more than half of Mongolia, using an open-access forward and inverse solver (GEMMIE), based on an integral equation approach. The new data were processed by employing, in particular, a multi-taper approach to improve the estimated MT responses at long periods.
The new 3-D model reveals lithospheric high-conductivity anomalies consistent with the main geological and tectonic features of Mongolia and indicates that the lithospheric anomalies previously imaged below Central Mongolia extend further westward but are bounded to the east by the Mogod fault system. It also reveals significant lithospheric-scale boundaries separating the northern and southern regions within Eastern and Western Mongolia. Furthermore, it establishes links between high-conductivity anomalies in the lower lithosphere with features of scientific and economic interest, such as fault or suture systems, important mineral zones, and intraplate volcanism.
The whole-lithosphere architecture controls the genesis, evolution, and transport of ore-forming fluids. Transient tectonic and geodynamic processes, occurring at various spatial and temporal scales, control the structure of the lithosphere. However, there remains questions about the source mechanism for ore-forming fluids and their depth of genesis. Thus knowledge of the deep structural framework can advance understanding of the development and emplacement locations of mineral systems. Deep geophysical exploration studies carried out with this in mind may be crucially important for targeting new ore deposits in unexplored and underexplored regions.
As a case study, we investigate a gold-copper metal belt located at the margin of an Archean-Paleoproterozoic microcontinent in central Mongolia. We explore three-dimensional models of the electrical resistivity generated from a regional-scale array of magnetotelluric data. In addition, we examine models of shear-wave velocity throughout the lithosphere.
Directly beneath the metal belt, and the surface expressions of known mineral deposits and occurrences, the electrical resistivity model reveals narrow, vertical, finger-like low-resistivity features within the high-resistivity upper-middle crust, which are connected to a large low-resistivity zone in the lower crust. A broad low-resistivity zone is imaged in the lithospheric mantle. This is well aligned with a zone of low shear-wave velocity. We carry out a quantitative correlation analysis between electrical resistivity and shear-wave velocity and observe a close correlation within the zones of interest.
In the upper-middle crust, the low-resistivity signatures give evidence for ancient pathways of fluids below the metal belt constrained by structure along a tectonic boundary. In the lower lithosphere, the low-resistivity and low-velocity signatures are interpreted to represent a fossil fluid source region. We propose that these signatures are caused by a combination of factors. In particularly, factors related to refertilization and metasomatism of the lithospheric mantle by long-lived subduction at the craton margin, possibly including iron enrichment, F-rich phlogopite, and metallic sulfides, are analysed and discussed. ...
As a case study, we investigate a gold-copper metal belt located at the margin of an Archean-Paleoproterozoic microcontinent in central Mongolia. We explore three-dimensional models of the electrical resistivity generated from a regional-scale array of magnetotelluric data. In addition, we examine models of shear-wave velocity throughout the lithosphere.
Directly beneath the metal belt, and the surface expressions of known mineral deposits and occurrences, the electrical resistivity model reveals narrow, vertical, finger-like low-resistivity features within the high-resistivity upper-middle crust, which are connected to a large low-resistivity zone in the lower crust. A broad low-resistivity zone is imaged in the lithospheric mantle. This is well aligned with a zone of low shear-wave velocity. We carry out a quantitative correlation analysis between electrical resistivity and shear-wave velocity and observe a close correlation within the zones of interest.
In the upper-middle crust, the low-resistivity signatures give evidence for ancient pathways of fluids below the metal belt constrained by structure along a tectonic boundary. In the lower lithosphere, the low-resistivity and low-velocity signatures are interpreted to represent a fossil fluid source region. We propose that these signatures are caused by a combination of factors. In particularly, factors related to refertilization and metasomatism of the lithospheric mantle by long-lived subduction at the craton margin, possibly including iron enrichment, F-rich phlogopite, and metallic sulfides, are analysed and discussed. ...
The whole-lithosphere architecture controls the genesis, evolution, and transport of ore-forming fluids. Transient tectonic and geodynamic processes, occurring at various spatial and temporal scales, control the structure of the lithosphere. However, there remains questions about the source mechanism for ore-forming fluids and their depth of genesis. Thus knowledge of the deep structural framework can advance understanding of the development and emplacement locations of mineral systems. Deep geophysical exploration studies carried out with this in mind may be crucially important for targeting new ore deposits in unexplored and underexplored regions.
As a case study, we investigate a gold-copper metal belt located at the margin of an Archean-Paleoproterozoic microcontinent in central Mongolia. We explore three-dimensional models of the electrical resistivity generated from a regional-scale array of magnetotelluric data. In addition, we examine models of shear-wave velocity throughout the lithosphere.
Directly beneath the metal belt, and the surface expressions of known mineral deposits and occurrences, the electrical resistivity model reveals narrow, vertical, finger-like low-resistivity features within the high-resistivity upper-middle crust, which are connected to a large low-resistivity zone in the lower crust. A broad low-resistivity zone is imaged in the lithospheric mantle. This is well aligned with a zone of low shear-wave velocity. We carry out a quantitative correlation analysis between electrical resistivity and shear-wave velocity and observe a close correlation within the zones of interest.
In the upper-middle crust, the low-resistivity signatures give evidence for ancient pathways of fluids below the metal belt constrained by structure along a tectonic boundary. In the lower lithosphere, the low-resistivity and low-velocity signatures are interpreted to represent a fossil fluid source region. We propose that these signatures are caused by a combination of factors. In particularly, factors related to refertilization and metasomatism of the lithospheric mantle by long-lived subduction at the craton margin, possibly including iron enrichment, F-rich phlogopite, and metallic sulfides, are analysed and discussed.
As a case study, we investigate a gold-copper metal belt located at the margin of an Archean-Paleoproterozoic microcontinent in central Mongolia. We explore three-dimensional models of the electrical resistivity generated from a regional-scale array of magnetotelluric data. In addition, we examine models of shear-wave velocity throughout the lithosphere.
Directly beneath the metal belt, and the surface expressions of known mineral deposits and occurrences, the electrical resistivity model reveals narrow, vertical, finger-like low-resistivity features within the high-resistivity upper-middle crust, which are connected to a large low-resistivity zone in the lower crust. A broad low-resistivity zone is imaged in the lithospheric mantle. This is well aligned with a zone of low shear-wave velocity. We carry out a quantitative correlation analysis between electrical resistivity and shear-wave velocity and observe a close correlation within the zones of interest.
In the upper-middle crust, the low-resistivity signatures give evidence for ancient pathways of fluids below the metal belt constrained by structure along a tectonic boundary. In the lower lithosphere, the low-resistivity and low-velocity signatures are interpreted to represent a fossil fluid source region. We propose that these signatures are caused by a combination of factors. In particularly, factors related to refertilization and metasomatism of the lithospheric mantle by long-lived subduction at the craton margin, possibly including iron enrichment, F-rich phlogopite, and metallic sulfides, are analysed and discussed.
We carried out long-term measurements of the electric potential in the laboratory and in the field and assessed the stability and temperature sensitivity of the recordings.
In the field, a robust design for long-term telluric recordings including a redundant parallel dipole so that consecutive stable time windows are more likely to be recorded was implemented in the Sauerland region of Germany (more than three months). Field testing is complicated by the fact that the system is no longer in isolation. However, the stability of the electric potential measured in the laboratory was a reasonable predictor of the stability of electric potential measured in the field. Nevertheless, instabilities in the form of spikes in the potential, steps, and spontaneous jumps (on the order of 1 mV) of unknown origin were observed.
The field measurements included a temperature-logging device. The temperature was monitored at two locations: a) the bottom-hole temperature at a depth of 80 cm below the surface, where the electrode was planted, and b) the top-hole temperature at a depth of 5 cm below the surface. The recorded temperatures in the electrode hole can be compared to the air temperature (as recorded in the nearby village). The results clearly show that planting the electrode deeper avoids the daily variations of temperature, which, in this case, were appreciable (up to 7°C), and which can affect the electric potential recordings. The bottom-hole temperature variation follows the long-term seasonal trend (e.g., 1–2°C/10 days), but is insensitive to short-term variations. Furthermore, installing electrodes at such depths can insulate them and avoid problems associated with the temperature going below the freezing point.
...
In the field, a robust design for long-term telluric recordings including a redundant parallel dipole so that consecutive stable time windows are more likely to be recorded was implemented in the Sauerland region of Germany (more than three months). Field testing is complicated by the fact that the system is no longer in isolation. However, the stability of the electric potential measured in the laboratory was a reasonable predictor of the stability of electric potential measured in the field. Nevertheless, instabilities in the form of spikes in the potential, steps, and spontaneous jumps (on the order of 1 mV) of unknown origin were observed.
The field measurements included a temperature-logging device. The temperature was monitored at two locations: a) the bottom-hole temperature at a depth of 80 cm below the surface, where the electrode was planted, and b) the top-hole temperature at a depth of 5 cm below the surface. The recorded temperatures in the electrode hole can be compared to the air temperature (as recorded in the nearby village). The results clearly show that planting the electrode deeper avoids the daily variations of temperature, which, in this case, were appreciable (up to 7°C), and which can affect the electric potential recordings. The bottom-hole temperature variation follows the long-term seasonal trend (e.g., 1–2°C/10 days), but is insensitive to short-term variations. Furthermore, installing electrodes at such depths can insulate them and avoid problems associated with the temperature going below the freezing point.
...
We carried out long-term measurements of the electric potential in the laboratory and in the field and assessed the stability and temperature sensitivity of the recordings.
In the field, a robust design for long-term telluric recordings including a redundant parallel dipole so that consecutive stable time windows are more likely to be recorded was implemented in the Sauerland region of Germany (more than three months). Field testing is complicated by the fact that the system is no longer in isolation. However, the stability of the electric potential measured in the laboratory was a reasonable predictor of the stability of electric potential measured in the field. Nevertheless, instabilities in the form of spikes in the potential, steps, and spontaneous jumps (on the order of 1 mV) of unknown origin were observed.
The field measurements included a temperature-logging device. The temperature was monitored at two locations: a) the bottom-hole temperature at a depth of 80 cm below the surface, where the electrode was planted, and b) the top-hole temperature at a depth of 5 cm below the surface. The recorded temperatures in the electrode hole can be compared to the air temperature (as recorded in the nearby village). The results clearly show that planting the electrode deeper avoids the daily variations of temperature, which, in this case, were appreciable (up to 7°C), and which can affect the electric potential recordings. The bottom-hole temperature variation follows the long-term seasonal trend (e.g., 1–2°C/10 days), but is insensitive to short-term variations. Furthermore, installing electrodes at such depths can insulate them and avoid problems associated with the temperature going below the freezing point.
In the field, a robust design for long-term telluric recordings including a redundant parallel dipole so that consecutive stable time windows are more likely to be recorded was implemented in the Sauerland region of Germany (more than three months). Field testing is complicated by the fact that the system is no longer in isolation. However, the stability of the electric potential measured in the laboratory was a reasonable predictor of the stability of electric potential measured in the field. Nevertheless, instabilities in the form of spikes in the potential, steps, and spontaneous jumps (on the order of 1 mV) of unknown origin were observed.
The field measurements included a temperature-logging device. The temperature was monitored at two locations: a) the bottom-hole temperature at a depth of 80 cm below the surface, where the electrode was planted, and b) the top-hole temperature at a depth of 5 cm below the surface. The recorded temperatures in the electrode hole can be compared to the air temperature (as recorded in the nearby village). The results clearly show that planting the electrode deeper avoids the daily variations of temperature, which, in this case, were appreciable (up to 7°C), and which can affect the electric potential recordings. The bottom-hole temperature variation follows the long-term seasonal trend (e.g., 1–2°C/10 days), but is insensitive to short-term variations. Furthermore, installing electrodes at such depths can insulate them and avoid problems associated with the temperature going below the freezing point.
Abstract
(2024)
-
Rafael Rigaud, Matthew J. Comeau, Mikhail Kruglyakov, Michael Becken, Alexey Kuvshinov
Three-dimensional (3-D) modelling of magnetotelluric (MT) data is standard practice nowadays, with various 3D inverse solvers being available for commercial and scientific usage. Three approaches are commonly used to numerically solve Maxwell’s equations in practice: finite-differences, finite elements, and volume integral equations. Most standard forward and inverse MT solvers/approaches have been benchmarked against each other and tested on several synthetic data/models. However, there has been few comparisons of the electrical conductivity models recovered by different solvers from real datasets.
In this presentation, we tackle this issue by generating inverse models from MT impedances taken from a subset of a large regional array in Central Mongolia using different codes: MODEM, based on finite differences; GEMMIE, based on integral equations; and FEMALY, a solver based on finite elements. In addition, we compare the recovered models with a published model, which was obtained by the finite elements code GOFEM. We will discuss the obtained models considering the underlying fundamentals of each method, the different inversion strategies, and the corresponding inversion parameters used, such as mesh discretization and regularization.
...
In this presentation, we tackle this issue by generating inverse models from MT impedances taken from a subset of a large regional array in Central Mongolia using different codes: MODEM, based on finite differences; GEMMIE, based on integral equations; and FEMALY, a solver based on finite elements. In addition, we compare the recovered models with a published model, which was obtained by the finite elements code GOFEM. We will discuss the obtained models considering the underlying fundamentals of each method, the different inversion strategies, and the corresponding inversion parameters used, such as mesh discretization and regularization.
...
Three-dimensional (3-D) modelling of magnetotelluric (MT) data is standard practice nowadays, with various 3D inverse solvers being available for commercial and scientific usage. Three approaches are commonly used to numerically solve Maxwell’s equations in practice: finite-differences, finite elements, and volume integral equations. Most standard forward and inverse MT solvers/approaches have been benchmarked against each other and tested on several synthetic data/models. However, there has been few comparisons of the electrical conductivity models recovered by different solvers from real datasets.
In this presentation, we tackle this issue by generating inverse models from MT impedances taken from a subset of a large regional array in Central Mongolia using different codes: MODEM, based on finite differences; GEMMIE, based on integral equations; and FEMALY, a solver based on finite elements. In addition, we compare the recovered models with a published model, which was obtained by the finite elements code GOFEM. We will discuss the obtained models considering the underlying fundamentals of each method, the different inversion strategies, and the corresponding inversion parameters used, such as mesh discretization and regularization.
In this presentation, we tackle this issue by generating inverse models from MT impedances taken from a subset of a large regional array in Central Mongolia using different codes: MODEM, based on finite differences; GEMMIE, based on integral equations; and FEMALY, a solver based on finite elements. In addition, we compare the recovered models with a published model, which was obtained by the finite elements code GOFEM. We will discuss the obtained models considering the underlying fundamentals of each method, the different inversion strategies, and the corresponding inversion parameters used, such as mesh discretization and regularization.
Improved Responses with Multitaper Spectral Analysis for Magnetotelluric Time Series Data Processing
Examples from Field Data
In order to attain good quality transfer function estimates from magnetotelluric field data (i.e., smooth behavior and small uncertainties across all frequencies), we compare time series data processing with and without a multitaper approach for spectral estimation. There are several common ways to increase the reliability of the Fourier spectral estimation from experimental (noisy) data; for example to subdivide the experimental time series into segments, taper these segments (using single taper), perform the Fourier transform of the individual segments, and average the resulting spectra. To further reduce the bias of spectral estimation, a multitaper approach can be adopted. In this approach, a number of orthogonal taper functions are used to generate independent estimates, from the same time segment, which are subsequently averaged. We apply multitaper spectral analysis to magnetotelluric time series data and we show examples of responses from field data. The results clearly show that this approach improves the transfer function responses, often significantly, particularly at the long periods.
...
In order to attain good quality transfer function estimates from magnetotelluric field data (i.e., smooth behavior and small uncertainties across all frequencies), we compare time series data processing with and without a multitaper approach for spectral estimation. There are several common ways to increase the reliability of the Fourier spectral estimation from experimental (noisy) data; for example to subdivide the experimental time series into segments, taper these segments (using single taper), perform the Fourier transform of the individual segments, and average the resulting spectra. To further reduce the bias of spectral estimation, a multitaper approach can be adopted. In this approach, a number of orthogonal taper functions are used to generate independent estimates, from the same time segment, which are subsequently averaged. We apply multitaper spectral analysis to magnetotelluric time series data and we show examples of responses from field data. The results clearly show that this approach improves the transfer function responses, often significantly, particularly at the long periods.
The tectonic evolution of Northeast Africa, particularly the interaction between the Saharan Metacraton and the Arabian-Nubian Shield in Egypt, remains poorly understood due to the lack of deeply-penetrating geophysical data that can shed light on lithospheric structures. We present magnetotelluric data along a 700 km profile that was acquired to reveal the lithosphere's composition, thickness, and thermal state, thereby contributing to a better understanding of the tectonic evolution in the region.
The generated 3-D electrical resistivity model illustrates the resistivity distribution along the tectonic boundaries. The Nile Valley region, characterized by significant sedimentary deposits, shows a complex resistivity pattern. The upper crust is highly conductive, consistent with thick sedimentary layers, while deeper sections reveal heterogeneous resistivity indicative of tectonic reactivation and sedimentary basin evolution. The Saharan Metacraton shows as a massive resistive feature interlocated with a more conductive feature revealing the location of the cratonic remnants that still hold some of the cratonic signature. The electrical signature of the Arabian Nubian Shield shows a resistive upper crust corresponding to the predominantly crystalline and igneous rocks, such as granitoids and gneisses, which form the bulk of the shield.
Magnetic and gravity data were combined with the electrical resistivity model in a joint inversion approach to enhance the accuracy and confidence in the interpretations by cross-verifying the findings from multiple sources. The magnetotelluric survey across Northeast Africa, integrating joint inversion with magnetic and gravity data, has provided detailed insights into the lithospheric structures, revealing complex resistivity patterns indicative of tectonic reactivation and sedimentary basin evolution. ...
The generated 3-D electrical resistivity model illustrates the resistivity distribution along the tectonic boundaries. The Nile Valley region, characterized by significant sedimentary deposits, shows a complex resistivity pattern. The upper crust is highly conductive, consistent with thick sedimentary layers, while deeper sections reveal heterogeneous resistivity indicative of tectonic reactivation and sedimentary basin evolution. The Saharan Metacraton shows as a massive resistive feature interlocated with a more conductive feature revealing the location of the cratonic remnants that still hold some of the cratonic signature. The electrical signature of the Arabian Nubian Shield shows a resistive upper crust corresponding to the predominantly crystalline and igneous rocks, such as granitoids and gneisses, which form the bulk of the shield.
Magnetic and gravity data were combined with the electrical resistivity model in a joint inversion approach to enhance the accuracy and confidence in the interpretations by cross-verifying the findings from multiple sources. The magnetotelluric survey across Northeast Africa, integrating joint inversion with magnetic and gravity data, has provided detailed insights into the lithospheric structures, revealing complex resistivity patterns indicative of tectonic reactivation and sedimentary basin evolution. ...
The tectonic evolution of Northeast Africa, particularly the interaction between the Saharan Metacraton and the Arabian-Nubian Shield in Egypt, remains poorly understood due to the lack of deeply-penetrating geophysical data that can shed light on lithospheric structures. We present magnetotelluric data along a 700 km profile that was acquired to reveal the lithosphere's composition, thickness, and thermal state, thereby contributing to a better understanding of the tectonic evolution in the region.
The generated 3-D electrical resistivity model illustrates the resistivity distribution along the tectonic boundaries. The Nile Valley region, characterized by significant sedimentary deposits, shows a complex resistivity pattern. The upper crust is highly conductive, consistent with thick sedimentary layers, while deeper sections reveal heterogeneous resistivity indicative of tectonic reactivation and sedimentary basin evolution. The Saharan Metacraton shows as a massive resistive feature interlocated with a more conductive feature revealing the location of the cratonic remnants that still hold some of the cratonic signature. The electrical signature of the Arabian Nubian Shield shows a resistive upper crust corresponding to the predominantly crystalline and igneous rocks, such as granitoids and gneisses, which form the bulk of the shield.
Magnetic and gravity data were combined with the electrical resistivity model in a joint inversion approach to enhance the accuracy and confidence in the interpretations by cross-verifying the findings from multiple sources. The magnetotelluric survey across Northeast Africa, integrating joint inversion with magnetic and gravity data, has provided detailed insights into the lithospheric structures, revealing complex resistivity patterns indicative of tectonic reactivation and sedimentary basin evolution.
The generated 3-D electrical resistivity model illustrates the resistivity distribution along the tectonic boundaries. The Nile Valley region, characterized by significant sedimentary deposits, shows a complex resistivity pattern. The upper crust is highly conductive, consistent with thick sedimentary layers, while deeper sections reveal heterogeneous resistivity indicative of tectonic reactivation and sedimentary basin evolution. The Saharan Metacraton shows as a massive resistive feature interlocated with a more conductive feature revealing the location of the cratonic remnants that still hold some of the cratonic signature. The electrical signature of the Arabian Nubian Shield shows a resistive upper crust corresponding to the predominantly crystalline and igneous rocks, such as granitoids and gneisses, which form the bulk of the shield.
Magnetic and gravity data were combined with the electrical resistivity model in a joint inversion approach to enhance the accuracy and confidence in the interpretations by cross-verifying the findings from multiple sources. The magnetotelluric survey across Northeast Africa, integrating joint inversion with magnetic and gravity data, has provided detailed insights into the lithospheric structures, revealing complex resistivity patterns indicative of tectonic reactivation and sedimentary basin evolution.
Characterizing suture zones in an accretionary orogenic belt
Insights from magnetotelluric measurements in the Beishan orogen
Ophiolite mélanges are commonly found in ancient accretionary orogenic belts. However, they may have diverse origins because they can form in various tectonic settings, including fore-arc, back-arc, active continental margins, mid-ocean ridges, and continental rifts. Identifying and characterizing suture zones in accretionary orogenic belts is crucial for understanding their tectonic evolution. The Beishan Orogenic Collage (BOC) is located in the southernmost part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB), one of the world's largest accretionary orogens, and formed through ongoing subduction and consumption of the Paleo-Asian Ocean and its branch ocean basins. It contains four east-west trending ophiolite mélange belts: (1) Hongshishan; (2) Shibanjing-Xiaohuangshan; (3) Hongliuhe-Niujuanzi-Xichangjing; and (4) Liuyuan, from north to south. Despite abundant geochemical, structural, and geochronological data, no consensus on the settings in which these ophiolite mélange belts formed and their subduction polarities remains elusive. This uncertainty has resulted in several contrasting models hypothesized for the tectonic evolution of the Beishan region.
In this study, we used 60 broadband magnetotelluric measurements and 16 long-period magnetotelluric measurements sites recently acquired across the Beishan region in northwest China to obtain a three-dimensional electrical resistivity model. The model reveals a generally high-resistivity upper crust with several low-resistivity features aligning with suture zones and tectonic boundaries. The high-resistivity lithosphere beneath Niujuanzi is compatible with northward and southward subduction of the Niujuanzi Ocean, potentially revealing remnants of a cold fossil oceanic lithosphere. In contrast, the deep lithosphere beneath the other three ophiolite belts is characterized by low-resistivity features. Since MORB-type rocks have lower iron, hydrogen, and carbon content, they tend to exhibit high resistivity characteristics, compared to a back-arc basin or rift. The model suggest that the Njiujuanzi Ocean was possibly the major ocean of the southern branch of the Palaeo-Asian Ocean, and that it had bi-directional subduction polarity. ...
In this study, we used 60 broadband magnetotelluric measurements and 16 long-period magnetotelluric measurements sites recently acquired across the Beishan region in northwest China to obtain a three-dimensional electrical resistivity model. The model reveals a generally high-resistivity upper crust with several low-resistivity features aligning with suture zones and tectonic boundaries. The high-resistivity lithosphere beneath Niujuanzi is compatible with northward and southward subduction of the Niujuanzi Ocean, potentially revealing remnants of a cold fossil oceanic lithosphere. In contrast, the deep lithosphere beneath the other three ophiolite belts is characterized by low-resistivity features. Since MORB-type rocks have lower iron, hydrogen, and carbon content, they tend to exhibit high resistivity characteristics, compared to a back-arc basin or rift. The model suggest that the Njiujuanzi Ocean was possibly the major ocean of the southern branch of the Palaeo-Asian Ocean, and that it had bi-directional subduction polarity. ...
Ophiolite mélanges are commonly found in ancient accretionary orogenic belts. However, they may have diverse origins because they can form in various tectonic settings, including fore-arc, back-arc, active continental margins, mid-ocean ridges, and continental rifts. Identifying and characterizing suture zones in accretionary orogenic belts is crucial for understanding their tectonic evolution. The Beishan Orogenic Collage (BOC) is located in the southernmost part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB), one of the world's largest accretionary orogens, and formed through ongoing subduction and consumption of the Paleo-Asian Ocean and its branch ocean basins. It contains four east-west trending ophiolite mélange belts: (1) Hongshishan; (2) Shibanjing-Xiaohuangshan; (3) Hongliuhe-Niujuanzi-Xichangjing; and (4) Liuyuan, from north to south. Despite abundant geochemical, structural, and geochronological data, no consensus on the settings in which these ophiolite mélange belts formed and their subduction polarities remains elusive. This uncertainty has resulted in several contrasting models hypothesized for the tectonic evolution of the Beishan region.
In this study, we used 60 broadband magnetotelluric measurements and 16 long-period magnetotelluric measurements sites recently acquired across the Beishan region in northwest China to obtain a three-dimensional electrical resistivity model. The model reveals a generally high-resistivity upper crust with several low-resistivity features aligning with suture zones and tectonic boundaries. The high-resistivity lithosphere beneath Niujuanzi is compatible with northward and southward subduction of the Niujuanzi Ocean, potentially revealing remnants of a cold fossil oceanic lithosphere. In contrast, the deep lithosphere beneath the other three ophiolite belts is characterized by low-resistivity features. Since MORB-type rocks have lower iron, hydrogen, and carbon content, they tend to exhibit high resistivity characteristics, compared to a back-arc basin or rift. The model suggest that the Njiujuanzi Ocean was possibly the major ocean of the southern branch of the Palaeo-Asian Ocean, and that it had bi-directional subduction polarity.
In this study, we used 60 broadband magnetotelluric measurements and 16 long-period magnetotelluric measurements sites recently acquired across the Beishan region in northwest China to obtain a three-dimensional electrical resistivity model. The model reveals a generally high-resistivity upper crust with several low-resistivity features aligning with suture zones and tectonic boundaries. The high-resistivity lithosphere beneath Niujuanzi is compatible with northward and southward subduction of the Niujuanzi Ocean, potentially revealing remnants of a cold fossil oceanic lithosphere. In contrast, the deep lithosphere beneath the other three ophiolite belts is characterized by low-resistivity features. Since MORB-type rocks have lower iron, hydrogen, and carbon content, they tend to exhibit high resistivity characteristics, compared to a back-arc basin or rift. The model suggest that the Njiujuanzi Ocean was possibly the major ocean of the southern branch of the Palaeo-Asian Ocean, and that it had bi-directional subduction polarity.
Abstract
(2024)
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Rafael Rigaud, Matthew J. Comeau, Michael Becken, Mikhail Kruglyakov, Alexey Kuvshinov
In late 2022, 79 magnetotelluric (MT) measurements were acquired across the Hovsgol and Darhad region, in northern Mongolia, consisting of an array (200 km by 200 km) and several denser profiles (~10 km site spacing). Currently, little is known about the subsurface structure of the Hovsgol and Darhad region. However, it is an important region because it represents the transition from the thin lithosphere, thick crust, and high plateau of central Mongolia to the south to the thick lithosphere of the Siberian Craton to the north. The region contains three parallel, seismically-active, rift valleys, oriented approximately north-south only ~100 km south of the Siberian Craton and ~200 km west of the Baikal rift zone. This change in the style of crustal deformation from compression, as compared to central Mongolia, is very intriguing. Meanwhile, petrological studies indicate that Cenozoic magmatic activity in the region may possibly be related to that in the Hangai. Further MT measurements have been acquired across the Siberian craton west of Lake Baikal (i.e., to the north). The data will provide constraints for geodynamic modelling on the lithospheric architecture of the region, with respect to, for example, edge-driven convection in the mantle due to the edge of the Siberian Craton. In this presentation, we report on a new 3-D electrical resistivity model of the Hovsgol and Darhad region, northern Mongolia.
...
In late 2022, 79 magnetotelluric (MT) measurements were acquired across the Hovsgol and Darhad region, in northern Mongolia, consisting of an array (200 km by 200 km) and several denser profiles (~10 km site spacing). Currently, little is known about the subsurface structure of the Hovsgol and Darhad region. However, it is an important region because it represents the transition from the thin lithosphere, thick crust, and high plateau of central Mongolia to the south to the thick lithosphere of the Siberian Craton to the north. The region contains three parallel, seismically-active, rift valleys, oriented approximately north-south only ~100 km south of the Siberian Craton and ~200 km west of the Baikal rift zone. This change in the style of crustal deformation from compression, as compared to central Mongolia, is very intriguing. Meanwhile, petrological studies indicate that Cenozoic magmatic activity in the region may possibly be related to that in the Hangai. Further MT measurements have been acquired across the Siberian craton west of Lake Baikal (i.e., to the north). The data will provide constraints for geodynamic modelling on the lithospheric architecture of the region, with respect to, for example, edge-driven convection in the mantle due to the edge of the Siberian Craton. In this presentation, we report on a new 3-D electrical resistivity model of the Hovsgol and Darhad region, northern Mongolia.
Journal article
(2024)
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Matthew J. Comeau, Rafael Rigaud, Erdenechimeg Batmagnai, Shoovdor Tserendug, Alexey Kuvshinov, Michael Becken, Sodnomsambuu Demberel
The Mongol-Okhotsk suture and the Adaatsag ophiolite belt are associated with the closure of the Mongol-Okhotsk paleo-ocean and are located within the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) and Mongolia. The suture zone is flanked by volcanic-plutonic belts that host significant metallogenic zones, containing deposits of copper and gold. The tectonic evolution of this region is not fully understood and the lithospheric structure has been poorly studied. We analyze magnetotelluric data and generate a model of the electrical resistivity distribution across this region. Whereas the northern segment has a sharp transition from a high-resistivity upper crust to a low-resistivity lower crust, as observed beneath the Hangai Dome, the southern segment does not show this transition. A wide, low-resistivity zone (1–100 Ωm) imaged in the crust and lithospheric mantle is coincident with the Mongol-Okhotsk suture and ophiolite, revealing a clear and significant lithospheric-scale feature. Across the profile, numerous narrow, vertically oriented, low-resistivity features (1–100 Ωm) are spatially associated remarkably well with the proposed boundaries of tectonic domains. These results confirm ideas about the development of the CAOB. Some of these low-resistivity features are beneath the surface locations of large mineral zones, and likely represent fossil fluid pathways. We show congruent seismic velocity models for comparison and the results show a large-scale low-velocity anomaly (decrease of 2%–3%) that correlates with the location of the low-resistivity anomaly below the Mongol-Okhotsk suture. The geophysical results, combined with geological and geochemical data, provide insights into the structure of this region and help shed light on unanswered questions.
...
The Mongol-Okhotsk suture and the Adaatsag ophiolite belt are associated with the closure of the Mongol-Okhotsk paleo-ocean and are located within the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB) and Mongolia. The suture zone is flanked by volcanic-plutonic belts that host significant metallogenic zones, containing deposits of copper and gold. The tectonic evolution of this region is not fully understood and the lithospheric structure has been poorly studied. We analyze magnetotelluric data and generate a model of the electrical resistivity distribution across this region. Whereas the northern segment has a sharp transition from a high-resistivity upper crust to a low-resistivity lower crust, as observed beneath the Hangai Dome, the southern segment does not show this transition. A wide, low-resistivity zone (1–100 Ωm) imaged in the crust and lithospheric mantle is coincident with the Mongol-Okhotsk suture and ophiolite, revealing a clear and significant lithospheric-scale feature. Across the profile, numerous narrow, vertically oriented, low-resistivity features (1–100 Ωm) are spatially associated remarkably well with the proposed boundaries of tectonic domains. These results confirm ideas about the development of the CAOB. Some of these low-resistivity features are beneath the surface locations of large mineral zones, and likely represent fossil fluid pathways. We show congruent seismic velocity models for comparison and the results show a large-scale low-velocity anomaly (decrease of 2%–3%) that correlates with the location of the low-resistivity anomaly below the Mongol-Okhotsk suture. The geophysical results, combined with geological and geochemical data, provide insights into the structure of this region and help shed light on unanswered questions.
Electrodes are used to measure a potential difference between two points. In geophysical and geotechnical applications they are often in the form of non-polarizable porous-pot electrodes. Here we describe the design, construction, and testing of modular and refillable electrodes, which facilitates repair as the electrodes degrade over time. We use a chemical composition based on a metal in contact with an over-saturated electrolyte that consists of a salt of that metal and an auxiliary salt. We compare characteristics when the electrolyte is stabilized in a clay or not, and with various states of ceramic porous plugs and two types of wood plugs. Next, we assess the long-term stability (more than 1 month), noise (periods of 1 s to 1 hr), and temperature sensitivity of different types of electrodes. Electrodes with an electrolyte and clay formula showed lower noise (0.2–0.4 μV at periods of 1–120 s), greater long-term stability (0.05–0.5 mV/month of smooth drift), and greater consistency between samples measured than those with no clay (noise and drift values up to four times larger). The effects from different porous plugs were negligible, with similar results for ceramic and wood types. The temperature sensitivity of the electric potential was assessed, from −3 to 35°C. All electrodes showed a temperature sensitivity of about −30 μV/°C. This is considered very low compared to some commercially available electrodes. Finally, continuous long-term laboratory and field measurements of the potential highlight the application of the new electrodes.
...
Electrodes are used to measure a potential difference between two points. In geophysical and geotechnical applications they are often in the form of non-polarizable porous-pot electrodes. Here we describe the design, construction, and testing of modular and refillable electrodes, which facilitates repair as the electrodes degrade over time. We use a chemical composition based on a metal in contact with an over-saturated electrolyte that consists of a salt of that metal and an auxiliary salt. We compare characteristics when the electrolyte is stabilized in a clay or not, and with various states of ceramic porous plugs and two types of wood plugs. Next, we assess the long-term stability (more than 1 month), noise (periods of 1 s to 1 hr), and temperature sensitivity of different types of electrodes. Electrodes with an electrolyte and clay formula showed lower noise (0.2–0.4 μV at periods of 1–120 s), greater long-term stability (0.05–0.5 mV/month of smooth drift), and greater consistency between samples measured than those with no clay (noise and drift values up to four times larger). The effects from different porous plugs were negligible, with similar results for ceramic and wood types. The temperature sensitivity of the electric potential was assessed, from −3 to 35°C. All electrodes showed a temperature sensitivity of about −30 μV/°C. This is considered very low compared to some commercially available electrodes. Finally, continuous long-term laboratory and field measurements of the potential highlight the application of the new electrodes.
Abstract
(2024)
-
Rafael Rigaud, Matthew J. Comeau, Erdenechimeg Batmagnai, Mikhail Kruglyakov, Alexey Kuvshinov, Michael Becken, Shoovdor Tserendug, Sodnomsambuu Demberel
We are investigating the lithospheric properties and lithospheric architecture beneath Mongolia with three-dimensional models of the electrical resistivity generated from magnetotelluric measurements. In addition, thermo-mechanical numerical modelling, with geophysically-guided constraints, is being used to provide valuable insights by testing the mechanical viability of different hypotheses for the temporal evolution and dynamic processes within this region.
Mongolia is located between the relatively stable Siberian craton and the extensional regime near the Baikal rift zone to the north and to the south the North China and Tarim cratons that have a northward-directed compressional regime. Due to its location, it is an excellent region to study intracontinental deformation. Furthermore, enigmatic continental intraplate basaltic volcanism of the Cenozoic age exists across Mongolia. In addition, this region contains economically important mineral zones (copper and gold), with the origin and evolution of the mineral systems linked to the whole-lithosphere architecture, crust-mantle interactions, and mantle convection dynamics.
Magnetotelluric data has been collected across Western, Central, and Eastern Mongolia. Three field campaigns in 2016, 2017, and 2018 collected more than 328 sites on an array (50 km spacing) and along three dense profiles (3-15 km spacing) that focused on the Hangai Dome (plateau) and Gobi-Altai (Arkhangai, Bayankhongor) over an area of approximately 800 km (north-south) by 400 km (east-west). Between 2020 and 2022, the array was extended to the east with 77 sites collected across central-east Mongolia (Bulgan, Selenge, Tuv, Uvurkhangai, Dundgovi; 400 by 200 km), including 34 sites along an 810 km long north-south profile crossing the Mongol-Okhotsk suture zone. In late 2022, 79 measurements were acquired in northern Mongolia across the Hovsgol region and Darhad (200 by 200 km) with an array and several profiles, which connect to data west of Lake Baikal. In early 2023, 38 sites were collected in central-east Mongolia (Umnugovi; 200 by 200 km), completing the eastern array. Later in 2023, a major field campaign was launched that successfully collected 150 measurements in western Mongolia (Zavkhan, Uvs, Govi-Altai, Khovd) over an area of approximately 500 by 400 km. This included an array (50 km spacing) and three dense profiles (5-10 km spacing). This gives approximately 700 magnetotelluric measurements collected over a total area of approximately 1000 km (north-south) by more than 1150 km (east-west).
This is a large area that approaches the scope of several other regional and national magnetotelluric survey programs. What’s more, this dataset fills an important gap between the existing magnetotelluric data across China and the Tibetan Plateau with several profiles across the Siberian Craton, in principle completing a remarkable transect of 4000 km across a variety of tectonic domains.
In this presentation, we will report on the new measurements. They will be integrated into the previously collected dataset, and new models will be generated that incorporate all data. We will also present new models of western, central and eastern Mongolia that provide insights on the properties, structure, and evolution of the Hangai Dome, the Mongol-Okhotsk suture and the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. ...
Mongolia is located between the relatively stable Siberian craton and the extensional regime near the Baikal rift zone to the north and to the south the North China and Tarim cratons that have a northward-directed compressional regime. Due to its location, it is an excellent region to study intracontinental deformation. Furthermore, enigmatic continental intraplate basaltic volcanism of the Cenozoic age exists across Mongolia. In addition, this region contains economically important mineral zones (copper and gold), with the origin and evolution of the mineral systems linked to the whole-lithosphere architecture, crust-mantle interactions, and mantle convection dynamics.
Magnetotelluric data has been collected across Western, Central, and Eastern Mongolia. Three field campaigns in 2016, 2017, and 2018 collected more than 328 sites on an array (50 km spacing) and along three dense profiles (3-15 km spacing) that focused on the Hangai Dome (plateau) and Gobi-Altai (Arkhangai, Bayankhongor) over an area of approximately 800 km (north-south) by 400 km (east-west). Between 2020 and 2022, the array was extended to the east with 77 sites collected across central-east Mongolia (Bulgan, Selenge, Tuv, Uvurkhangai, Dundgovi; 400 by 200 km), including 34 sites along an 810 km long north-south profile crossing the Mongol-Okhotsk suture zone. In late 2022, 79 measurements were acquired in northern Mongolia across the Hovsgol region and Darhad (200 by 200 km) with an array and several profiles, which connect to data west of Lake Baikal. In early 2023, 38 sites were collected in central-east Mongolia (Umnugovi; 200 by 200 km), completing the eastern array. Later in 2023, a major field campaign was launched that successfully collected 150 measurements in western Mongolia (Zavkhan, Uvs, Govi-Altai, Khovd) over an area of approximately 500 by 400 km. This included an array (50 km spacing) and three dense profiles (5-10 km spacing). This gives approximately 700 magnetotelluric measurements collected over a total area of approximately 1000 km (north-south) by more than 1150 km (east-west).
This is a large area that approaches the scope of several other regional and national magnetotelluric survey programs. What’s more, this dataset fills an important gap between the existing magnetotelluric data across China and the Tibetan Plateau with several profiles across the Siberian Craton, in principle completing a remarkable transect of 4000 km across a variety of tectonic domains.
In this presentation, we will report on the new measurements. They will be integrated into the previously collected dataset, and new models will be generated that incorporate all data. We will also present new models of western, central and eastern Mongolia that provide insights on the properties, structure, and evolution of the Hangai Dome, the Mongol-Okhotsk suture and the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. ...
We are investigating the lithospheric properties and lithospheric architecture beneath Mongolia with three-dimensional models of the electrical resistivity generated from magnetotelluric measurements. In addition, thermo-mechanical numerical modelling, with geophysically-guided constraints, is being used to provide valuable insights by testing the mechanical viability of different hypotheses for the temporal evolution and dynamic processes within this region.
Mongolia is located between the relatively stable Siberian craton and the extensional regime near the Baikal rift zone to the north and to the south the North China and Tarim cratons that have a northward-directed compressional regime. Due to its location, it is an excellent region to study intracontinental deformation. Furthermore, enigmatic continental intraplate basaltic volcanism of the Cenozoic age exists across Mongolia. In addition, this region contains economically important mineral zones (copper and gold), with the origin and evolution of the mineral systems linked to the whole-lithosphere architecture, crust-mantle interactions, and mantle convection dynamics.
Magnetotelluric data has been collected across Western, Central, and Eastern Mongolia. Three field campaigns in 2016, 2017, and 2018 collected more than 328 sites on an array (50 km spacing) and along three dense profiles (3-15 km spacing) that focused on the Hangai Dome (plateau) and Gobi-Altai (Arkhangai, Bayankhongor) over an area of approximately 800 km (north-south) by 400 km (east-west). Between 2020 and 2022, the array was extended to the east with 77 sites collected across central-east Mongolia (Bulgan, Selenge, Tuv, Uvurkhangai, Dundgovi; 400 by 200 km), including 34 sites along an 810 km long north-south profile crossing the Mongol-Okhotsk suture zone. In late 2022, 79 measurements were acquired in northern Mongolia across the Hovsgol region and Darhad (200 by 200 km) with an array and several profiles, which connect to data west of Lake Baikal. In early 2023, 38 sites were collected in central-east Mongolia (Umnugovi; 200 by 200 km), completing the eastern array. Later in 2023, a major field campaign was launched that successfully collected 150 measurements in western Mongolia (Zavkhan, Uvs, Govi-Altai, Khovd) over an area of approximately 500 by 400 km. This included an array (50 km spacing) and three dense profiles (5-10 km spacing). This gives approximately 700 magnetotelluric measurements collected over a total area of approximately 1000 km (north-south) by more than 1150 km (east-west).
This is a large area that approaches the scope of several other regional and national magnetotelluric survey programs. What’s more, this dataset fills an important gap between the existing magnetotelluric data across China and the Tibetan Plateau with several profiles across the Siberian Craton, in principle completing a remarkable transect of 4000 km across a variety of tectonic domains.
In this presentation, we will report on the new measurements. They will be integrated into the previously collected dataset, and new models will be generated that incorporate all data. We will also present new models of western, central and eastern Mongolia that provide insights on the properties, structure, and evolution of the Hangai Dome, the Mongol-Okhotsk suture and the Central Asian Orogenic Belt.
Mongolia is located between the relatively stable Siberian craton and the extensional regime near the Baikal rift zone to the north and to the south the North China and Tarim cratons that have a northward-directed compressional regime. Due to its location, it is an excellent region to study intracontinental deformation. Furthermore, enigmatic continental intraplate basaltic volcanism of the Cenozoic age exists across Mongolia. In addition, this region contains economically important mineral zones (copper and gold), with the origin and evolution of the mineral systems linked to the whole-lithosphere architecture, crust-mantle interactions, and mantle convection dynamics.
Magnetotelluric data has been collected across Western, Central, and Eastern Mongolia. Three field campaigns in 2016, 2017, and 2018 collected more than 328 sites on an array (50 km spacing) and along three dense profiles (3-15 km spacing) that focused on the Hangai Dome (plateau) and Gobi-Altai (Arkhangai, Bayankhongor) over an area of approximately 800 km (north-south) by 400 km (east-west). Between 2020 and 2022, the array was extended to the east with 77 sites collected across central-east Mongolia (Bulgan, Selenge, Tuv, Uvurkhangai, Dundgovi; 400 by 200 km), including 34 sites along an 810 km long north-south profile crossing the Mongol-Okhotsk suture zone. In late 2022, 79 measurements were acquired in northern Mongolia across the Hovsgol region and Darhad (200 by 200 km) with an array and several profiles, which connect to data west of Lake Baikal. In early 2023, 38 sites were collected in central-east Mongolia (Umnugovi; 200 by 200 km), completing the eastern array. Later in 2023, a major field campaign was launched that successfully collected 150 measurements in western Mongolia (Zavkhan, Uvs, Govi-Altai, Khovd) over an area of approximately 500 by 400 km. This included an array (50 km spacing) and three dense profiles (5-10 km spacing). This gives approximately 700 magnetotelluric measurements collected over a total area of approximately 1000 km (north-south) by more than 1150 km (east-west).
This is a large area that approaches the scope of several other regional and national magnetotelluric survey programs. What’s more, this dataset fills an important gap between the existing magnetotelluric data across China and the Tibetan Plateau with several profiles across the Siberian Craton, in principle completing a remarkable transect of 4000 km across a variety of tectonic domains.
In this presentation, we will report on the new measurements. They will be integrated into the previously collected dataset, and new models will be generated that incorporate all data. We will also present new models of western, central and eastern Mongolia that provide insights on the properties, structure, and evolution of the Hangai Dome, the Mongol-Okhotsk suture and the Central Asian Orogenic Belt.
Abstract
(2024)
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Matthew J. Comeau, Rafael Rigaud, Erdenechimeg Batmagnai, Shoovdor Tserendug, Sodnomsambuu Demberel, Michael Becken, Alexey Kuvshinov
In the framework of a mineral system approach, a combination of components is required to develop a mineral system. This includes the whole-lithosphere architecture, which controls the transport of ore-forming fluids, and favorable tectonic and geodynamic processes, occurring at various spatial and temporal scales, that influence the genesis and evolution of ore-forming fluids (Huston et al., 2016; Groves et al., 2018; Davies et al., 2020). Knowledge of the deep structural framework can advance the understanding of the development of a mineral system and the emplacement of mineral deposits. Deep geophysical exploration carried out with this aim is increasingly important for targeting new ore deposits in unexplored and underexplored regions (Dentith et al., 2018; Dentith, 2019). We analyze data and electrical resistivity models generated from magnetotelluric measurements acquired across Mongolia, part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, as part of a regional array (Käufl et al., 2020; Rigaud et al., 2023a, b; Comeau et al., 2024; see Fig. 1) and focus on several metallogenic zones. These zones contain significant resources of copper and gold, as well as rare earth elements. We interpret the results, with the help of geological and geochemical data, in addition to seismic velocity data, and discuss fluid transport pathways and links to the surface expressions of mineral deposits.
...
In the framework of a mineral system approach, a combination of components is required to develop a mineral system. This includes the whole-lithosphere architecture, which controls the transport of ore-forming fluids, and favorable tectonic and geodynamic processes, occurring at various spatial and temporal scales, that influence the genesis and evolution of ore-forming fluids (Huston et al., 2016; Groves et al., 2018; Davies et al., 2020). Knowledge of the deep structural framework can advance the understanding of the development of a mineral system and the emplacement of mineral deposits. Deep geophysical exploration carried out with this aim is increasingly important for targeting new ore deposits in unexplored and underexplored regions (Dentith et al., 2018; Dentith, 2019). We analyze data and electrical resistivity models generated from magnetotelluric measurements acquired across Mongolia, part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, as part of a regional array (Käufl et al., 2020; Rigaud et al., 2023a, b; Comeau et al., 2024; see Fig. 1) and focus on several metallogenic zones. These zones contain significant resources of copper and gold, as well as rare earth elements. We interpret the results, with the help of geological and geochemical data, in addition to seismic velocity data, and discuss fluid transport pathways and links to the surface expressions of mineral deposits.
Abstract
(2023)
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Rafael Rigaud, Matthew Joseph Comeau, Alexey Kuvshinov, Alexander Grayver, Erdenechimeg Batmagnai, Shoovdor Tserendug, Mikhail Kruglyakov, Michael Becken, Sodnomsambuu Demberel
Deformation in the continental interior, far from tectonic plate boundaries, is not fully understood. Due to its location, Mongolia is a prime natural laboratory for studying effects such as intracontinental deformation and intraplate volcanism. A previous regional magnetotelluric (MT) study, including three (2016-2018) field campaigns, identified a localized asthenospheric upwelling with a correspondingly thin lithosphere underneath the Hangai Dome (Central Mongolia). Compared with Central Mongolia, Eastern Mongolia is less studied with geophysical methods; consequently, its underlying lithospheric and asthenospheric properties are less constrained. At the same time, this region is of economic and scientific interest, as it hosts several mineral zones and relevant geological features, such as the Mongolia-Okhotsk suture zone. Furthermore, it is unknown to what extent the identified electrical conductivity anomalies in Central Mongolia extend to the east and how the crust and mantle differ in this region.This work presents the first results of a new MT field study covering Central-Eastern Mongolia. 64 broadband MT stations were deployed between 2020 and 2022 along five profiles east of the Hangai. The data were processed using a two-step multi-taper processing approach, simultaneously improving the quality at short and long periods, providing credible MT responses up to 2048 seconds. The previously acquired and new data were jointly inverted regarding 3-D conductivity variations. Furthermore, data from an 880 km long 2-D profile extending from the Selenga Basin to Gobi Desert were inverted independently. This study is part of a broader project aiming to constrain the electrical conductivity of entire Mongolia.
...
Deformation in the continental interior, far from tectonic plate boundaries, is not fully understood. Due to its location, Mongolia is a prime natural laboratory for studying effects such as intracontinental deformation and intraplate volcanism. A previous regional magnetotelluric (MT) study, including three (2016-2018) field campaigns, identified a localized asthenospheric upwelling with a correspondingly thin lithosphere underneath the Hangai Dome (Central Mongolia). Compared with Central Mongolia, Eastern Mongolia is less studied with geophysical methods; consequently, its underlying lithospheric and asthenospheric properties are less constrained. At the same time, this region is of economic and scientific interest, as it hosts several mineral zones and relevant geological features, such as the Mongolia-Okhotsk suture zone. Furthermore, it is unknown to what extent the identified electrical conductivity anomalies in Central Mongolia extend to the east and how the crust and mantle differ in this region.This work presents the first results of a new MT field study covering Central-Eastern Mongolia. 64 broadband MT stations were deployed between 2020 and 2022 along five profiles east of the Hangai. The data were processed using a two-step multi-taper processing approach, simultaneously improving the quality at short and long periods, providing credible MT responses up to 2048 seconds. The previously acquired and new data were jointly inverted regarding 3-D conductivity variations. Furthermore, data from an 880 km long 2-D profile extending from the Selenga Basin to Gobi Desert were inverted independently. This study is part of a broader project aiming to constrain the electrical conductivity of entire Mongolia.
Journal article
(2023)
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Yue Sheng, Sheng Jin, Matthew J. Comeau, Zengqian Hou, Michael Becken, Hao Dong, Letian Zhang, Wenbo Wei, Gaofeng Ye
Both low resistivity zones and low velocity zones are distributed in the middle-lower crust of the western Lhasa terrane, Tibetan Plateau, China. Some estimates from electrical resistivity data suggest large volume fractions of silicate melts that are difficult to reconcile with seismic velocity data that prefer lower volumes. A second conductive phase, such as saline fluids, that drastically reduces the conductivity but does not significantly affect the seismic velocity because of its low volume may be able to explain these differences. In this study, a 3-D model of the electrical resistivity structure is generated on a profile along longitude 85°E from a latitude of 29°N to 32.5°N. Based on experimental measurement of melts and alkali-rich fluids (e.g., H
2O-NaCl), we estimate the volume fraction of each phase that is required to explain the conductive anomalies observed in the geophysical model. The model reveals that the maximum bulk conductivity of the mid-lower crust in the south (1.52 S/m) is much higher than the conductivity of the mid-lower crust in the north (0.18 S/m) when taking 31°N as a rough boundary, near Coqen region. We hypothesize that the conductive zones in the south of the Coqen region may result from a silicate melt and alkali-rich fluid (multicomponent) system. In contrast, partial melting alone can explain the conductive zones in the north. The hypothesis can reconcile the predictions from electrical resistivity data and seismic data, and it corresponds well with zircon Hf isotope data. For example, a combination such as the presence of <1% NaCl-bearing aqueous fluids in addition to 5-10% partial melt can reconcile electrical conductivity data and seismic data. We propose that the contributions from partial melt or saline fluids are controlled by the distinct tectonic dynamics in each region. Furthermore, the model compatible with the idea that the Indian lower crust subducted northwards beneath the Lhasa terrane and may not extend far beyond the Indus-Yarlung Zangbo suture (approximately 30-31°N). The widespread distribution and interconnection of crustal conductors at different depths is consistent with the lateral migration of materials. However, both geophysical data sets agree that some anomalies are discontinuous along the profile. Furthermore, the low-angle subducted Indian Plate with no obvious tearing feature and a low volume of melts may have contributed to the absence of long, continuous, N-S-trending normal faults in this region.
...
Both low resistivity zones and low velocity zones are distributed in the middle-lower crust of the western Lhasa terrane, Tibetan Plateau, China. Some estimates from electrical resistivity data suggest large volume fractions of silicate melts that are difficult to reconcile with seismic velocity data that prefer lower volumes. A second conductive phase, such as saline fluids, that drastically reduces the conductivity but does not significantly affect the seismic velocity because of its low volume may be able to explain these differences. In this study, a 3-D model of the electrical resistivity structure is generated on a profile along longitude 85°E from a latitude of 29°N to 32.5°N. Based on experimental measurement of melts and alkali-rich fluids (e.g., H 2O-NaCl), we estimate the volume fraction of each phase that is required to explain the conductive anomalies observed in the geophysical model. The model reveals that the maximum bulk conductivity of the mid-lower crust in the south (1.52 S/m) is much higher than the conductivity of the mid-lower crust in the north (0.18 S/m) when taking 31°N as a rough boundary, near Coqen region. We hypothesize that the conductive zones in the south of the Coqen region may result from a silicate melt and alkali-rich fluid (multicomponent) system. In contrast, partial melting alone can explain the conductive zones in the north. The hypothesis can reconcile the predictions from electrical resistivity data and seismic data, and it corresponds well with zircon Hf isotope data. For example, a combination such as the presence of <1% NaCl-bearing aqueous fluids in addition to 5-10% partial melt can reconcile electrical conductivity data and seismic data. We propose that the contributions from partial melt or saline fluids are controlled by the distinct tectonic dynamics in each region. Furthermore, the model compatible with the idea that the Indian lower crust subducted northwards beneath the Lhasa terrane and may not extend far beyond the Indus-Yarlung Zangbo suture (approximately 30-31°N). The widespread distribution and interconnection of crustal conductors at different depths is consistent with the lateral migration of materials. However, both geophysical data sets agree that some anomalies are discontinuous along the profile. Furthermore, the low-angle subducted Indian Plate with no obvious tearing feature and a low volume of melts may have contributed to the absence of long, continuous, N-S-trending normal faults in this region.
Abstract
(2023)
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Hossam Marzouk, Tarek Arafa-Hamed, Michael Becken, Matthew Comeau, Abdallah Ibrahim
Northeast Africa, which today includes the Arabian-Nubian Shield and the Saharan Metacraton, experienced a complex and long history of tectonic events. These include cratonization, which resulted in thickening of the lithosphere and formation of stable cratons, and decratonization, which occurred as a result of the remobilization and reactivation of the tectonic domains through subsequent orogenies, or destruction of the cratonic root during extensional events. One outstanding question is the present-day architecture of the lithosphere across this region, including the location of important tectonic boundaries. Several geophysical investigations have been conducted to study the lithosphere, including density and velocity modeling; however, they have mainly focused on the hydrocarbon-rich areas offshore and onshore close to the western coast of the Gulf of Suez, in addition to some small regional-scale studies.
We present a tectonic model of the Arabian-Nubian Shield and Saharan Metacraton derived, in part, from a 3D electrical resistivity model generated from magnetotelluric measurements acquired along a 700 km long profile across the central part of Egypt. The profile, roughly west-east, consists of 57 measurements, a subset of a larger dataset acquired in the region. The profile crosses the main tectonic boundaries in Egypt: the Arabian Nubian Shield (ANS) in the eastern part, the Nile River in the central part, and the Saharan Metacraton (SMC), in addition to its cratonic remnants (Al-Kufra), in the western part. The profile runs approximately along a line from Dahkla to Kharga, across to Qena, and towards Hurghada on the coast. On average, the measurement spacing is approximately 10 km, although it is denser in some regions (e.g., near ANS) and sparser in others (e.g., near Qena) due to local conditions.
The data were acquired in campaigns carried out in autumn 2019, spring 2020, spring 2021, and spring 2022. The measurements used Metronix data loggers (ADU07e) and Metronix induction coils along with locally developed copper-copper sulphate electrodes to measure the electric field. Most sites were recorded for 2-5 days. The sampling rate used was 512 Hz. Periods up to 1,000 – 5,000 s were recorded. The data are generally considered to be of good quality and had low noise; this is primarily due to the lack of urban electrical noise in most of the survey area.
Dimensionality analyses suggest a 3D character for long-period data, particularly in the ANS area, that requires the use of full 3D inversion to properly describe all aspects of the data. Several sensitivity tests were carried out to validate the robustness of the features in the 3D electrical resistivity model. A comparison of the resistivity model with other geophysical models in this region (including density and velocity models) shows a good correlation for the location of the cratonic boundary, which has a clear resistive electrical signature. ...
We present a tectonic model of the Arabian-Nubian Shield and Saharan Metacraton derived, in part, from a 3D electrical resistivity model generated from magnetotelluric measurements acquired along a 700 km long profile across the central part of Egypt. The profile, roughly west-east, consists of 57 measurements, a subset of a larger dataset acquired in the region. The profile crosses the main tectonic boundaries in Egypt: the Arabian Nubian Shield (ANS) in the eastern part, the Nile River in the central part, and the Saharan Metacraton (SMC), in addition to its cratonic remnants (Al-Kufra), in the western part. The profile runs approximately along a line from Dahkla to Kharga, across to Qena, and towards Hurghada on the coast. On average, the measurement spacing is approximately 10 km, although it is denser in some regions (e.g., near ANS) and sparser in others (e.g., near Qena) due to local conditions.
The data were acquired in campaigns carried out in autumn 2019, spring 2020, spring 2021, and spring 2022. The measurements used Metronix data loggers (ADU07e) and Metronix induction coils along with locally developed copper-copper sulphate electrodes to measure the electric field. Most sites were recorded for 2-5 days. The sampling rate used was 512 Hz. Periods up to 1,000 – 5,000 s were recorded. The data are generally considered to be of good quality and had low noise; this is primarily due to the lack of urban electrical noise in most of the survey area.
Dimensionality analyses suggest a 3D character for long-period data, particularly in the ANS area, that requires the use of full 3D inversion to properly describe all aspects of the data. Several sensitivity tests were carried out to validate the robustness of the features in the 3D electrical resistivity model. A comparison of the resistivity model with other geophysical models in this region (including density and velocity models) shows a good correlation for the location of the cratonic boundary, which has a clear resistive electrical signature. ...
Northeast Africa, which today includes the Arabian-Nubian Shield and the Saharan Metacraton, experienced a complex and long history of tectonic events. These include cratonization, which resulted in thickening of the lithosphere and formation of stable cratons, and decratonization, which occurred as a result of the remobilization and reactivation of the tectonic domains through subsequent orogenies, or destruction of the cratonic root during extensional events. One outstanding question is the present-day architecture of the lithosphere across this region, including the location of important tectonic boundaries. Several geophysical investigations have been conducted to study the lithosphere, including density and velocity modeling; however, they have mainly focused on the hydrocarbon-rich areas offshore and onshore close to the western coast of the Gulf of Suez, in addition to some small regional-scale studies.
We present a tectonic model of the Arabian-Nubian Shield and Saharan Metacraton derived, in part, from a 3D electrical resistivity model generated from magnetotelluric measurements acquired along a 700 km long profile across the central part of Egypt. The profile, roughly west-east, consists of 57 measurements, a subset of a larger dataset acquired in the region. The profile crosses the main tectonic boundaries in Egypt: the Arabian Nubian Shield (ANS) in the eastern part, the Nile River in the central part, and the Saharan Metacraton (SMC), in addition to its cratonic remnants (Al-Kufra), in the western part. The profile runs approximately along a line from Dahkla to Kharga, across to Qena, and towards Hurghada on the coast. On average, the measurement spacing is approximately 10 km, although it is denser in some regions (e.g., near ANS) and sparser in others (e.g., near Qena) due to local conditions.
The data were acquired in campaigns carried out in autumn 2019, spring 2020, spring 2021, and spring 2022. The measurements used Metronix data loggers (ADU07e) and Metronix induction coils along with locally developed copper-copper sulphate electrodes to measure the electric field. Most sites were recorded for 2-5 days. The sampling rate used was 512 Hz. Periods up to 1,000 – 5,000 s were recorded. The data are generally considered to be of good quality and had low noise; this is primarily due to the lack of urban electrical noise in most of the survey area.
Dimensionality analyses suggest a 3D character for long-period data, particularly in the ANS area, that requires the use of full 3D inversion to properly describe all aspects of the data. Several sensitivity tests were carried out to validate the robustness of the features in the 3D electrical resistivity model. A comparison of the resistivity model with other geophysical models in this region (including density and velocity models) shows a good correlation for the location of the cratonic boundary, which has a clear resistive electrical signature.
We present a tectonic model of the Arabian-Nubian Shield and Saharan Metacraton derived, in part, from a 3D electrical resistivity model generated from magnetotelluric measurements acquired along a 700 km long profile across the central part of Egypt. The profile, roughly west-east, consists of 57 measurements, a subset of a larger dataset acquired in the region. The profile crosses the main tectonic boundaries in Egypt: the Arabian Nubian Shield (ANS) in the eastern part, the Nile River in the central part, and the Saharan Metacraton (SMC), in addition to its cratonic remnants (Al-Kufra), in the western part. The profile runs approximately along a line from Dahkla to Kharga, across to Qena, and towards Hurghada on the coast. On average, the measurement spacing is approximately 10 km, although it is denser in some regions (e.g., near ANS) and sparser in others (e.g., near Qena) due to local conditions.
The data were acquired in campaigns carried out in autumn 2019, spring 2020, spring 2021, and spring 2022. The measurements used Metronix data loggers (ADU07e) and Metronix induction coils along with locally developed copper-copper sulphate electrodes to measure the electric field. Most sites were recorded for 2-5 days. The sampling rate used was 512 Hz. Periods up to 1,000 – 5,000 s were recorded. The data are generally considered to be of good quality and had low noise; this is primarily due to the lack of urban electrical noise in most of the survey area.
Dimensionality analyses suggest a 3D character for long-period data, particularly in the ANS area, that requires the use of full 3D inversion to properly describe all aspects of the data. Several sensitivity tests were carried out to validate the robustness of the features in the 3D electrical resistivity model. A comparison of the resistivity model with other geophysical models in this region (including density and velocity models) shows a good correlation for the location of the cratonic boundary, which has a clear resistive electrical signature.
Magnetotelluric Data Across Mongolia
Implications for Intracontinental Deformation and Intraplate Volcanism — Report on New Measurements
Abstract
(2023)
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Rafael Rigaud, Matthew Joseph Comeau, Michael Becken, Alexey Kuvshinov, Shoovdor Tserendug, Erdenechimeg Batmagnai, Sodnomsambuu Demberel
Intracontinental deformation and intraplate volcanism, which occur far from tectonic plate boundaries, are not fully understood. Their origin and evolution are linked by crust-mantle interactions and mantle convection dynamics. Mongolia is an ideal natural laboratory for studying such processes because it is located far into the continental interior, several thousand kilometres from major tectonic margins.
To the north is the Siberian craton, which is relatively stable, to the northeast is an extensional regime near the Baikal rift zone, which stretches for more than one thousand kilometres, and to the south are the North China and Tarim cratons, which have northward-directed motion creating a compressional regime. Central Mongolia, which contains a high plateau (with indications of vertical motion), is characterized by a shallow lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary that deepens at the edges, notably northwards towards the Siberian Craton. Continental intraplate basaltic volcanism of Cenozoic age exists across central and northern Mongolia, with several large concentrations within the Hangai region.
As part of an ongoing project, we are investigating the lithospheric properties and lithospheric architecture beneath this region with magnetotelluric measurements and three-dimensional models of electrical resistivity. In addition, thermo-mechanical numerical modelling, with geophysically-guided constraints, is being used to provide valuable insight by testing different hypotheses for the temporal evolution and dynamic processes -- such as whether an upwelling asthenosphere and/or lithospheric removal could realistically be a consequence of delamination, edge-driven convection mechanisms from a lithospheric step, or some combination.
Towards these goals, geophysical models that image the transition from thin lithosphere to thick lithosphere (and its geometry), believed to occur beneath northern Mongolia, are beneficial. There exists a wealth of recent geophysical data across central Mongolia, in addition to petrological data. This includes a temporary broadband seismic array that covers the Gobi, Hangai, and Hovsgol regions.
In this presentation, we will report on 79 new magnetotelluric measurements acquired in 2022 in northern Mongolia across the Hovsgol and Darhad regions, as well as 77 new measurements acquired from 2020-2022 in central-east Mongolia (Bulgan, Arvaikheer). The acquired data are very good quality with low noise, a clear benefit of the remote location. Recordings were carried out at each location for approximately 1-5 days. The data typically had reliable periods up to 1,000 - 8,000 s. The new data will, ultimately, be integrated into the previously collected dataset across central Mongolia (Hangai, Bayankhongor, and Gobi-Altai), which consists of 328 measurement locations (thus approximately 500 total), which covers a total area of, currently, approximately 1000 km by 800 km. This is a notably large area, within the realm of several large regional and national magnetotelluric (and seismic) surveys. Furthermore, the data across northern Mongolia fill the last gap in a remarkable transect of existing magnetotelluric data that extends approximately 4,000 km from across the Siberian Craton to across the Tibetan Plateau. ...
To the north is the Siberian craton, which is relatively stable, to the northeast is an extensional regime near the Baikal rift zone, which stretches for more than one thousand kilometres, and to the south are the North China and Tarim cratons, which have northward-directed motion creating a compressional regime. Central Mongolia, which contains a high plateau (with indications of vertical motion), is characterized by a shallow lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary that deepens at the edges, notably northwards towards the Siberian Craton. Continental intraplate basaltic volcanism of Cenozoic age exists across central and northern Mongolia, with several large concentrations within the Hangai region.
As part of an ongoing project, we are investigating the lithospheric properties and lithospheric architecture beneath this region with magnetotelluric measurements and three-dimensional models of electrical resistivity. In addition, thermo-mechanical numerical modelling, with geophysically-guided constraints, is being used to provide valuable insight by testing different hypotheses for the temporal evolution and dynamic processes -- such as whether an upwelling asthenosphere and/or lithospheric removal could realistically be a consequence of delamination, edge-driven convection mechanisms from a lithospheric step, or some combination.
Towards these goals, geophysical models that image the transition from thin lithosphere to thick lithosphere (and its geometry), believed to occur beneath northern Mongolia, are beneficial. There exists a wealth of recent geophysical data across central Mongolia, in addition to petrological data. This includes a temporary broadband seismic array that covers the Gobi, Hangai, and Hovsgol regions.
In this presentation, we will report on 79 new magnetotelluric measurements acquired in 2022 in northern Mongolia across the Hovsgol and Darhad regions, as well as 77 new measurements acquired from 2020-2022 in central-east Mongolia (Bulgan, Arvaikheer). The acquired data are very good quality with low noise, a clear benefit of the remote location. Recordings were carried out at each location for approximately 1-5 days. The data typically had reliable periods up to 1,000 - 8,000 s. The new data will, ultimately, be integrated into the previously collected dataset across central Mongolia (Hangai, Bayankhongor, and Gobi-Altai), which consists of 328 measurement locations (thus approximately 500 total), which covers a total area of, currently, approximately 1000 km by 800 km. This is a notably large area, within the realm of several large regional and national magnetotelluric (and seismic) surveys. Furthermore, the data across northern Mongolia fill the last gap in a remarkable transect of existing magnetotelluric data that extends approximately 4,000 km from across the Siberian Craton to across the Tibetan Plateau. ...
Intracontinental deformation and intraplate volcanism, which occur far from tectonic plate boundaries, are not fully understood. Their origin and evolution are linked by crust-mantle interactions and mantle convection dynamics. Mongolia is an ideal natural laboratory for studying such processes because it is located far into the continental interior, several thousand kilometres from major tectonic margins.
To the north is the Siberian craton, which is relatively stable, to the northeast is an extensional regime near the Baikal rift zone, which stretches for more than one thousand kilometres, and to the south are the North China and Tarim cratons, which have northward-directed motion creating a compressional regime. Central Mongolia, which contains a high plateau (with indications of vertical motion), is characterized by a shallow lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary that deepens at the edges, notably northwards towards the Siberian Craton. Continental intraplate basaltic volcanism of Cenozoic age exists across central and northern Mongolia, with several large concentrations within the Hangai region.
As part of an ongoing project, we are investigating the lithospheric properties and lithospheric architecture beneath this region with magnetotelluric measurements and three-dimensional models of electrical resistivity. In addition, thermo-mechanical numerical modelling, with geophysically-guided constraints, is being used to provide valuable insight by testing different hypotheses for the temporal evolution and dynamic processes -- such as whether an upwelling asthenosphere and/or lithospheric removal could realistically be a consequence of delamination, edge-driven convection mechanisms from a lithospheric step, or some combination.
Towards these goals, geophysical models that image the transition from thin lithosphere to thick lithosphere (and its geometry), believed to occur beneath northern Mongolia, are beneficial. There exists a wealth of recent geophysical data across central Mongolia, in addition to petrological data. This includes a temporary broadband seismic array that covers the Gobi, Hangai, and Hovsgol regions.
In this presentation, we will report on 79 new magnetotelluric measurements acquired in 2022 in northern Mongolia across the Hovsgol and Darhad regions, as well as 77 new measurements acquired from 2020-2022 in central-east Mongolia (Bulgan, Arvaikheer). The acquired data are very good quality with low noise, a clear benefit of the remote location. Recordings were carried out at each location for approximately 1-5 days. The data typically had reliable periods up to 1,000 - 8,000 s. The new data will, ultimately, be integrated into the previously collected dataset across central Mongolia (Hangai, Bayankhongor, and Gobi-Altai), which consists of 328 measurement locations (thus approximately 500 total), which covers a total area of, currently, approximately 1000 km by 800 km. This is a notably large area, within the realm of several large regional and national magnetotelluric (and seismic) surveys. Furthermore, the data across northern Mongolia fill the last gap in a remarkable transect of existing magnetotelluric data that extends approximately 4,000 km from across the Siberian Craton to across the Tibetan Plateau.
To the north is the Siberian craton, which is relatively stable, to the northeast is an extensional regime near the Baikal rift zone, which stretches for more than one thousand kilometres, and to the south are the North China and Tarim cratons, which have northward-directed motion creating a compressional regime. Central Mongolia, which contains a high plateau (with indications of vertical motion), is characterized by a shallow lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary that deepens at the edges, notably northwards towards the Siberian Craton. Continental intraplate basaltic volcanism of Cenozoic age exists across central and northern Mongolia, with several large concentrations within the Hangai region.
As part of an ongoing project, we are investigating the lithospheric properties and lithospheric architecture beneath this region with magnetotelluric measurements and three-dimensional models of electrical resistivity. In addition, thermo-mechanical numerical modelling, with geophysically-guided constraints, is being used to provide valuable insight by testing different hypotheses for the temporal evolution and dynamic processes -- such as whether an upwelling asthenosphere and/or lithospheric removal could realistically be a consequence of delamination, edge-driven convection mechanisms from a lithospheric step, or some combination.
Towards these goals, geophysical models that image the transition from thin lithosphere to thick lithosphere (and its geometry), believed to occur beneath northern Mongolia, are beneficial. There exists a wealth of recent geophysical data across central Mongolia, in addition to petrological data. This includes a temporary broadband seismic array that covers the Gobi, Hangai, and Hovsgol regions.
In this presentation, we will report on 79 new magnetotelluric measurements acquired in 2022 in northern Mongolia across the Hovsgol and Darhad regions, as well as 77 new measurements acquired from 2020-2022 in central-east Mongolia (Bulgan, Arvaikheer). The acquired data are very good quality with low noise, a clear benefit of the remote location. Recordings were carried out at each location for approximately 1-5 days. The data typically had reliable periods up to 1,000 - 8,000 s. The new data will, ultimately, be integrated into the previously collected dataset across central Mongolia (Hangai, Bayankhongor, and Gobi-Altai), which consists of 328 measurement locations (thus approximately 500 total), which covers a total area of, currently, approximately 1000 km by 800 km. This is a notably large area, within the realm of several large regional and national magnetotelluric (and seismic) surveys. Furthermore, the data across northern Mongolia fill the last gap in a remarkable transect of existing magnetotelluric data that extends approximately 4,000 km from across the Siberian Craton to across the Tibetan Plateau.
Abstract
(2022)
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M.J. Comeau, Michael Becken, Alexey Kuvshinov
Mineral systems can be thought of as a combination of several critical elements, including the whole-lithosphere architecture, favorable geodynamic/tectonic events, and fertility. There are open questions regarding the source of ore-forming fluids, the depth of genesis, and their transportation through the upper crust to discrete emplacement locations. In this study, we investigate an Au–Cu metal belt located at the margin of an Archean-Paleoproterozoic microcontinent in central Mongolia. We explore three-dimensional models of the electrical resistivity and shear-wave velocity throughout the lithosphere. Directly beneath the metal belt, narrow, vertical, finger-like low-resistivity features are imaged within the resistive upper-middle crust and are connected to a large low-resistivity zone in the lower crust. A broad low-resistivity zone is imaged in the lithospheric mantle, which is well aligned with a zone of low shear-wave velocity. In the upper-middle crust, the resistivity signatures give evidence for ancient pathways of fluids, below the metal belt, constrained by structure along a tectonic boundary. In the lower lithosphere, the resistivity and velocity signatures are interpreted to represent a fossil fluid source region. We propose that these signatures were caused by a combination of factors, particularly those related to refertilization and metasomatism of the lithospheric mantle by long-lived subduction at the craton margin, and discuss several possibilities.
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Mineral systems can be thought of as a combination of several critical elements, including the whole-lithosphere architecture, favorable geodynamic/tectonic events, and fertility. There are open questions regarding the source of ore-forming fluids, the depth of genesis, and their transportation through the upper crust to discrete emplacement locations. In this study, we investigate an Au–Cu metal belt located at the margin of an Archean-Paleoproterozoic microcontinent in central Mongolia. We explore three-dimensional models of the electrical resistivity and shear-wave velocity throughout the lithosphere. Directly beneath the metal belt, narrow, vertical, finger-like low-resistivity features are imaged within the resistive upper-middle crust and are connected to a large low-resistivity zone in the lower crust. A broad low-resistivity zone is imaged in the lithospheric mantle, which is well aligned with a zone of low shear-wave velocity. In the upper-middle crust, the resistivity signatures give evidence for ancient pathways of fluids, below the metal belt, constrained by structure along a tectonic boundary. In the lower lithosphere, the resistivity and velocity signatures are interpreted to represent a fossil fluid source region. We propose that these signatures were caused by a combination of factors, particularly those related to refertilization and metasomatism of the lithospheric mantle by long-lived subduction at the craton margin, and discuss several possibilities.
Controls on the metallogenesis of the Lhasa–Mozugongka district, Gangdese Belt, Tibetan Plateau
Constraints on melt distribution and viscosity from the 3-D electrical structure of the lithosphere
Journal article
(2022)
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Yue Sheng, Sheng Jin, Matthew J. Comeau, Michael Becken, Letian Zhang, Hao Dong, Wenbo Wei, Gaofeng Ye
Some of the largest and most significant Miocene porphyry copper systems in China are within the Gangdese metallogenic belt on the southern Tibetan Plateau. It has been recognized that the crustal architecture and rheology, derived from regional tectonic events, has direct implications for the evolution and transport of fluids and magmas, and thus for the metallogenesis and prospectivity. Using data from a magnetetolluric array, which intersects the Lhasa–Mozugongka district of the Gangdese metal belt, a 3-D electrical resistivity model was generated, with the goal of investigating the tectonic and rheological controls on the magmatic mineral system. The lithospheric temperature distribution was estimated by applying the Arrhenius equation to conductivity profiles generated from 1-D Monte-Carlo models of long-period magnetotelluric data. The conductivity of partial melts in the lower and middle crust (30–60 km depth) was estimated for local conditions by applying the experimentally-derived equation of X. Guo et al. (2018). Subsequently, we estimated the melt fraction required to explain the observed bulk resistivity in each part of the study area. Variations in the effective viscosity of the lower and middle crust were constrained by the electrical resistivity model by applying the empirical relation of Liu and Hasterock (2016). Beneath the Miocene Cu–Mo deposits in the Lhasa terrane, conductive features in the lower and middle crust are attributed to partial melt fractions of more than 5% and viscosity reductions of 1–2 orders of magnitude. These conductive features may represent the signatures of (ore-controlling) melt/fluid migration channels and deeper melt/fluid source regions in the form of extensive crustal reservoirs of partial melt. Based on the interpretations of the geophysical model, and other available geological and geochemical evidence, a model of the metallogenic dynamics of the Miocene porphyry Cu–Mo deposits is proposed. Overall, the study highlights the applicability of electromagnetic geophysical methods to reliably link resistivity structures to melt/fluid transport channels and sources within a mineral system and supports the hypothesis that crustal rheology exerts a major control on the distribution of ore deposits.
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Some of the largest and most significant Miocene porphyry copper systems in China are within the Gangdese metallogenic belt on the southern Tibetan Plateau. It has been recognized that the crustal architecture and rheology, derived from regional tectonic events, has direct implications for the evolution and transport of fluids and magmas, and thus for the metallogenesis and prospectivity. Using data from a magnetetolluric array, which intersects the Lhasa–Mozugongka district of the Gangdese metal belt, a 3-D electrical resistivity model was generated, with the goal of investigating the tectonic and rheological controls on the magmatic mineral system. The lithospheric temperature distribution was estimated by applying the Arrhenius equation to conductivity profiles generated from 1-D Monte-Carlo models of long-period magnetotelluric data. The conductivity of partial melts in the lower and middle crust (30–60 km depth) was estimated for local conditions by applying the experimentally-derived equation of X. Guo et al. (2018). Subsequently, we estimated the melt fraction required to explain the observed bulk resistivity in each part of the study area. Variations in the effective viscosity of the lower and middle crust were constrained by the electrical resistivity model by applying the empirical relation of Liu and Hasterock (2016). Beneath the Miocene Cu–Mo deposits in the Lhasa terrane, conductive features in the lower and middle crust are attributed to partial melt fractions of more than 5% and viscosity reductions of 1–2 orders of magnitude. These conductive features may represent the signatures of (ore-controlling) melt/fluid migration channels and deeper melt/fluid source regions in the form of extensive crustal reservoirs of partial melt. Based on the interpretations of the geophysical model, and other available geological and geochemical evidence, a model of the metallogenic dynamics of the Miocene porphyry Cu–Mo deposits is proposed. Overall, the study highlights the applicability of electromagnetic geophysical methods to reliably link resistivity structures to melt/fluid transport channels and sources within a mineral system and supports the hypothesis that crustal rheology exerts a major control on the distribution of ore deposits.