Geological characteristics, metallogenic regularities and the exploration of graphite deposits in China

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The demand for graphite resources has been increasing due to its extensive use. Graphite deposits in China are mainly distributed in Heilongjiang, Innner Mogolia, Sichuan, Shanxi and Shandong, characterized by “one old & one new” and “many in east & few in west”. There are mainly three genetic types, including regional metamorphic type, contact metamorphic type and hydrothermal type. Here we provide a summary of the metallogenic regularity and 15 metallogenic belts in China based on the study of the geology of national graphite deposits. In recent years, great progress has been made in the research of genesis, mineral exploration and evaluation on graphite deposits, which indicate great potential for graphite resource in China. The authors suggest that the research on geochronology, ore sources, the genesis of crystalline graphite and exploration for hydrothermal graphite in China should be heightened.

Keywords

• Graphite
• Metallogenic regularity
• Mineral potential
• Research progress