Vektore Structural Geology and Technology

Open-Source Core Alignment Tool: Better Core Orientation, Better Models

rogerio — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 18:47:19 +0000

What if a simple, free tool had the potential to enhance the accuracy of your core orientation data?

Structural geology data derived from oriented core is crucial for understanding the orientation and configuration of geological structures, not only while evaluating the magnitude and continuity of mineralization but also providing evidence for such continuity when migrating between the mineral resources’ classes. The accuracy of these measurements can be broadly divided into two categories: (Vektore 2025):

Measurement-Instrument Accuracy: this pertains to errors related to the direct reading from the core, often influenced by the actual reading method or tool used.
Measurement-Net Accuracy: cumulative error that builds up over the course of each core orientation run.

A significant source of error arises from the orientation process itself or the transfer of the orientation mark to the core – this issue is prevalent in the industry and often goes unaddressed at the drilling site. However, it is important to acknowledge that mitigation strategies exist to address these issues at the core shed; practices proposed by @Holcombe (2014) offer approaches to quantify and qualify such errors. Consider a stereonet generated from multiple core orientation runs, each recording a consistent foliation orientation. Ideally, the data points should be clustered. However, due to misorientation, these points often scatter along a small circle (cone), reflecting discrepancies that can compromise geological interpretations and resource estimation. Addressing Core Orientation Misorientation is crucial for enhancing the reliability of structural data in mineral exploration.

To ensure data integrity, it’s often recommended to discard unreliable core-orientation runs—sometimes accounting for over 70% of all runs. We’ll illustrate this with a case study and explore it further in an upcoming article. As noted by @Brett Davis (2012), geologists must vigilantly assess the quality of orientation marks and be prepared to discard data that does not meet established standards. Any deviation in this process can proportionally impact the outcome of the intended work. Therefore, achieving high accuracy at the reading stage does not guarantee the overall accuracy of the data and its usability. Indeed, when orientation errors accumulate, geological models become inaccurate, leading to misplaced drillholes, flawed resource estimates, and ultimately costly mining decisions.

Another typical challenge regarding the core orientation mark arises when the core break occurs inside the core lifter case (core piece locked to the core lifter). In this case, the mark is usually not transferred by the drillers due to the lack of a proper tool to place the core orientation mark at the face of the core. Moreover, a rapid test to verify the consistency of orientation marks across successive core runs – without the need to fully trace the orientation line – would be a valuable tool as an effective first-pass quality control measure in the geologist’s toolbox.

Before outlining our solution to the core orientation issues described above, we must first introduce five key concepts: Locked Intervals, Tau Angle, Core Orientation Misorientation, Core Orientation Drift, and Indented Orientation Mark.

Locked Intervals refer to physically continuous sections of core where all pieces remain in contact and properly assembled as they were in situ. These intervals may be shorter or span one or more drilling runs and serve as the fundamental units for evaluating orientation consistency.
Tau Angle is the angular difference between two orientation lines derived from two adjacent and connected core runs as calculated by Vektore’s Structural Vectoring Log method (Vektore 2012-2025a) – a value that, in a perfectly oriented core, should be zero. It quantifies between-runs misalignment and is conceptually described by Holcombe (2013) as the Spin Angle, followed by Meyers et al. (2016) as the Lock Angle.
Core Orientation Misorientation errors are introduced when transferring orientation marks from the core orientation tool to the core, resulting in non-zero Tau Angles between two contiguous and locked core runs (e.g., see Interval 12 on Figure 3). Such misalignments are prevalent in the industry and often lead to substantial deviations in structural data.
Core Orientation Drift is a systematic, cumulative misorientation between successive core runs – evidenced by growing Tau Angles and directional bias – often a downstream effect of misorientation (e.g., see Interval 12 on Figure 3).
Indented Orientation Mark is the orientation line placed on the face of the last core piece, from the core orientation run, while it is still secured within the core lifter, at the inner end of the core lifter case.

vCAT^©– Vektore Core Orientation Tool

To address the challenges outlined above, Vektore designed and developed the vCAT (Vektore Core Alignment Tool – Figure 1) in 2020. Since its launch (Vektore, 2020), vCAT has become an integral part of our services, enabling clients to enhance core orientation accuracy in mineral exploration projects. Vektore gratefully acknowledges the contributions of @Rodrigo Figueiredo, @Rogerio Monteiro, @Tiago Eloi, and @Angelo Giovannone to the design and implementation of vCAT. To support the broader industry, we are releasing vCAT as a free, open-source tool under the Creative Commons license: vCAT – Vektore Core Alignment Tool ^© 2020 by Vektore Exploration Consulting Corporation is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/. This initiative aims to make vCAT widely accessible, enabling professionals, educators, and field teams worldwide to adopt better core alignment practices and improve the reliability of structural data acquisition.

vCAT (Figure 1 and Figure 2) is a purpose-built device designed to enhance the accuracy of core orientation mark transfers and thereby enhance the quality of the core orientation line. It offers a precise and user-friendly solution by physically snapping into the core lifter case, utilizing strong magnets to ensure stable and accurate alignment transfer – whether the core is indented or protruding. This enables reliable transfer of the Top-of-Core (TOC) or Bottom-of-Core (BOC) orientation mark onto both the core’s side and face, while mitigating common issues such as orientation drift (Figure 3).

vCAT supports three key use cases:

Reliable orientation transfer: transferring core orientation marks–Top-of-Core (TOC) or Bottom-of-Core (BOC) – onto the core with consistency.
Indented face marking: accurately marking the core face when the final piece is recessed or indented in the core lifter case.
Rapid alignment checks: conducting quick alignment checks between locked core runs without the need for tracing the full orientation line, either at the drill site or later in the core shed.

vCAT enables accurate alignment in the field or core shed, allowing exploration teams to detect and correct orientation errors early before they incur costly consequences. It significantly improves the accuracy of structural measurements by enhancing measurement-net accuracy.

vCAT (Vektore Core Alignment Tool) – Key Features:

Precise core alignment: physically snaps into the core lifter case (V-house and magnets), promoting stable and accurate alignment during orientation mark transfers.
Handles irregular core surfaces: effectively enables orientation marking on cores that are recessed or protruding within the core lifter case, including top, bottom, and face orientations.
Increases the number of usable core orientation runs: provides a reliable method for transferring orientation marks, allowing more core runs – including those with breaks inside the core lifter case – to meet quality standards and be included in structural analyses.
Mitigates orientation drift: addresses common issues related to core orientation drift, enhancing the reliability of structural data.
Quick verification between runs: enables rapid alignment marks checks between adjacent core orientation runs, eliminating the need to draw the full orientation line – core must be sitting on an angle iron and core pieces locked as they were in situ.
User-friendly design: features an easy-to-use snap-fit mechanism compatible with any inner tube and core lifter case, suitable for all field conditions. Intuitive operation and quick setup optimized for practical field conditions.
Non-electronic and durable: operates without electronic components, reducing potential points of failure in rugged environments.
Accessible and customizable: designed for 3D printing with simple parameters, making it easy to produce and adapt as needed – open call for collaboration and feedback.

Figure 1 Shows the vCAT© tool – the numbered labels represent key components: (1) bubble, (2) magnet to lock onto the core lifter case, (3) pivoting support to transfer the core orientation mark to core face when it is locked inside the core lifter (indented core), and (4) magnet to lock the pivoting support. The three blue arrows indicate the location of the three aligned V-house slots to be used to constrain the marker along the proper alignment in relation to the core orientation information.

Figure 2 This image shows one of the various setup configurations for using the vCAT© tool. It is locked on the core lifter case and showing the Top of the Core line transferred to the core. Note that the pivot V-house slot properly constrains the marker orientation. This pivot V-house slot is also used to project the orientation mark into the core face when it is residing and locked inside the core-lifter. Note that the semi-ellipse, the line and the letter “T” are Vektore’s best practices to make the Top-of-Core mark self-evident.

The Tau Plot (Figure 3) illustrates core misorientation by visually classifying the reliability of core orientation data. It also serves as a diagnostic tool to address these issues through the application of the Structural Convergence^© method (https://vektore.com/orenode/), which is part of Vektore’s Quality Optimization process.

Figure 3 Ore.node’s Tau plot showing the core orientation misorientation patterns emerged from 105 m of locked core, providing a full evaluation of the health of the continuously locked intervals. Core orientation drift is shown on the interval 12 (under the curly bracket). Note that up to 20% of the runs are aligned and indicated by the second curly bracket – and in between these two brackets, there is a 1800 rotation (red rectangle). In addition, there is a missing connection at the end of the Tau Plot. These are errors easily spotted by the Tau Plot with locked runs of any length. One of the causes of core orientation misorientation is related to the design of the tools used to transfer the core orientation information onto the core, which can be significantly influenced by the diameter of the marker and by how the driller transfers such information to the core. Note that the Tau Plot allows real-time analysis and Quality Optimization© (based on the Structural Convergence method Vektore (2012–2025b)) without the need for redrawing the core orientation lines.

Conclusion

Accurate core orientation is fundamental to reliable structural geology and mineral resource estimation. Nevertheless, errors during the transfer of orientation marks to the core remain a common and often overlooked issue in the industry. These misalignments can cascade through the data pipeline, leading to costly mistakes in structural interpretation, geological modeling and decision-making.

To effectively address this challenge, Vektore has developed the vCAT (Vektore Core Alignment Tool) – a simple, non-electronic tool designed to improve the accuracy of orientation transfer. By releasing vCAT as a free, open-source tool under the Creative Commons license (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0), Vektore aims to make this solution tool widely accessible, enabling professionals, educators, and field teams worldwide to adopt more reliable core alignment practices and enhance the quality and trustworthiness of structural data acquisition.

Key Takeaways:

Core orientation errors are widespread in the industry: misorientation during the transfer of orientation marks is a significant source of error in structural geology.
vCAT offers a practical solution: designed by structural geologists, vCAT addresses common alignment issues, aiming to enhance the accuracy of structural data.
Open-source accessibility: by releasing vCAT under a Creative Commons license, Vektore empowers the global geological community to adopt better core alignment practices.
Enhanced data reliability: vCAT contributes to more accurate geological interpretations and resource estimations, ultimately supporting more efficient and cost-effective exploration outcomes.

In summary, vCAT is designed to support the Value of Information in mineral exploration by offering a cost-effective approach to core orientation that has the potential to help informed decisions and enhance exploration efficiency. Explore the vCAT – download it to improve consistency and alignment practices in your core orientation program [vCAT 3D drawings].

Disclaimer

The vCAT (Vektore Core Alignment Tool) is provided by Vektore Exploration Consulting Corporation (Vektore) under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0). This license allows users to use, share, and adapt the tool for non-commercial purposes, provided proper attribution is given to Vektore and any derivative works are distributed under the same license. The tool is provided “as is” without any warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Users are responsible for ensuring the tool’s suitability for their specific applications and for complying with all applicable laws and regulations. Vektore shall not be liable for any damages, losses, or other liabilities arising from the use or inability to use vCAT, including but not limited to direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages. By downloading, printing, or using vCAT, you acknowledge and agree to the terms of the CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/legalcode) and this disclaimer. Commercial Use Notice: the design files are provided free of charge for personal and non-commercial use only. If you are interested in manufacturing and/or commercializing any product based on these design files, please contact Vektore to obtain a separate commercial agreement.

List of materials – see on webpage

Here is the list of materials necessary to build vCAT:

3D printer
3D print filament or resin
Eight Rare Earth strong magnets – 12 mm x 3 mm
Two Rare Earth strong magnets – 4mm x 2mm
Cylindrical Bubble Level 9.5x40mm

References

Davis, B. (2012). Drill core orientation – An Inconvenient Truth, part 2 of 3 – https://structuralgeology.com/drill-core-orientation-an-inconvenient-truth-part-2-of-3/?utm_source=chatgpt.com.

Holcombe, R. J. (2014). Oriented Drillcore: Measurement, Conversion, and QA/QC Procedures for Structural and Exploiration Geologists – last updated in May 2023. https://www.holcombe.net.au/downloads/HCOVG_oriented_core_procedures.pdf.

Myers, R. et al. (2016) An Inexpensive Way to Maximize and Preserve the Value of Oriented Core: The Orientation Log. SEG Discovery (107): 1–19.

Vektore (2020) Various designs & built of the vCAT – internal documents.

Vektore (2025) How Accurate are Alpha and Beta Measurements? Responding to Federico Arboleda and tackling the elephant in the room. (https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-accurate-alpha-beta-measurements-responding-federico-arboleda-iahtc/?trackingId=lPdlhKKkP%2Bv2JGQSNhbheg%3D%3D or https://vektore.com/how-accurate-are-alpha-and-beta-measurements-responding-to-federico-arboleda-and-tackling-the-elephant-in-the-room/).

Vektore (2012-2025a) Vektore Webpage at www.vektore.com

Vektore (2012–2025b) various webpage posts, short courses and presentations: Structural Geology in Mineral Exploration (short courses to the University of Western Ontario and industry clients); Structural Vectoring Log (SVL) methodology guide; Best Practices in Structural Exploration Geology and Standard Operating Procedures; Ore.node, vSTAR, and vSTAR App.

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From Uncertainty to Discovery: Structural Quality Optimization in Action

rogerio — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 15:30:02 +0000

Imagine this: you drill your very first borehole into a promising geophysical and copper soil anomaly – and strike significant mineralization right away. Excitement soars: it feels like you’re onto a major discovery. Then, just as quickly, frustration sets in. Your follow-up holes miss the mark, failing to intersect the target. No oriented core, no structural insight – just guesswork disguised as drilling. We call this the Second Borehole Problem (Vektore (2012–2025) – when we think we’re chasing geometry and continuity, but you’re flying blind. No real structural framework, no factual geometrical controls – hoping for the best. Sound familiar?

Figure 1 Bornite-Chalcopyrite rich sulphide stringers and massive sulphides intersected by the discovery hole. Note the sulphide lineation on the right-most image.

Please note that, in accordance with Vektore’s Data Anonymization (DA) protocols, certain details about the deposit have been withheld or generalized to protect our clients.

Our mission was clear: revisit the discovery hole and extract structural insights – both those tied to mineralization and those defining the broader architecture. The challenge? Working with non-oriented core while still delivering a reliable structural framework to guide follow-up drilling. We took it head-on. This is where Orebody Knowledge (OBK) plays a critical role (Maptek, 2018). A robust OBK framework ensures that early-stage structural insights are captured, reducing uncertainty and increasing the efficiency of subsequent drilling decisions. Without it, every hole risks being just another guess.

Our approach leveraged Structural Inversion™, which together with Structural Convergence™ comprises the concept of Structural Quality Optimization™ (QO) proposed by Monteiro (2005) and Vektore (2012–2025). We set a reference mark on the mineralized core and collected structural data using the Structural Vectoring® Log (SVL – Vektore, 2012). To strengthen our dataset, we worked with the client to open a trench along the dip-direction of the discovery hole – an essential step in validating our reconstructed architecture (see Figure 2).

Figure 2 Mapping the trench along the dip-direction of the discovery hole with and without the structural features for the reference dataset presented in 3D.

Structural Inversion™ is a cutting-edge method that reconstructs the likely orientations of key mineralization-related structures, using a robust algebraic algorithm in 3D (see Figure 3). By directly harmonizing the inversion set with a reference dataset obtained from within the same structural domain, it reveals geometrical relationships that would otherwise remain hidden. This powerful approach unlocks new structural insights, giving geologists a clearer picture of the mineralization architecture early on. With this knowledge, drilling strategies can be redefined with precision – maximizing efficiency and reducing costly guesswork.

Figure 3 Discover hole and the trench that provided the reference dataset for the inversion of the mineralized zone.

Based on our Structural Inversion™ study, we provided a clear prescription for optimized drilling: the next borehole should be drilled from W-WNW to E-ESE to properly intersect the mineralization projected from the discovery hole. To ensure precise execution, we supplied the client with a recommended drill site (N-E-Elevation coordinates) and the exact dip/dip-direction for the verification (proposed) hole: 50°/115° (see Figure 4). This approach is designed to maximize mineralization intersection, reducing uncertainty and improving targeting efficiency.

Figure 4 Discovery hole with the Structural Inversion completed and the proposed hole with the probable range of intersection of the projected mineralization (in red). Note that, on the discovery hole, there are 220 m from mineralization to the surface (collar).

Initially, the client explored alternative drilling strategies, opting to test continuity through a series of additional boreholes rather than immediately following the prescribed validation hole. While this approach provided valuable data, the sought-after mineralization was ultimately intersected only after implementing the Structural Inversion™-based recommendations (see Figure 5). In hindsight, had the prescribed approach been followed earlier, the discovery could have been made more efficiently, with fewer drill holes and lower costs. A post-campaign assessment determined that the follow up non-intersecting holes accounted for approximately 45% of the drilling budget allocated to this target – highlighting the potential for significant resource optimization in future exploration programs.

This highlights the Value of Information (VoI) in mineral exploration (Lawie, 2024). Spending early on high-confidence structural data – such as that derived from Structural Inversion™ – reduces wasted drilling and maximizes the return on every meter drilled. In the end, the cost of not having the right information far outweighs the investment in obtaining it.

Figure 5 The complete solution is presented on this figure, in which the proposed and actual holes are indicated, along the envelope of the projected mineralization validating not only the proposed hole but also the window depth of the intersection.

This case highlights a fundamental challenge in exploration: drilling without a clear structural framework leads to unnecessary cost and uncertainty. The Second Borehole Problem is real—without proper orientation, even promising discoveries can become difficult to follow up. By applying Structural Inversion™ on non-oriented core, we reconstructed the mineralization architecture, providing a data-driven drilling prescription that ultimately led to success. However, the delay in adopting this approach resulted in significant resource losses, with non-intersecting holes consuming 45% of the drilling budget. The key takeaways are:

Orebody Knowledge (OBK) is critical. Without a solid understanding of structural controls, every drill hole is a high risk.
The right information at the right time saves resources. The Value of Information (VoI) in structural analysis is undeniable – early investment in high-confidence data prevents wasted drilling.
Precision and smart drilling is the future. Methods like Structural Inversion™, Structural Quality Optimization and Structural Vectoring® Log (SVL) provide geologists with better tools to define geometry and continuity—before wasting meters.

This case offers a clear lesson: structural insights are not just useful – they are essential. The cost of guessing is too high, and the path forward is clear: integrate structural intelligence early and drill smarter.

It’s time to move beyond guesswork in exploration. The Second Borehole Problem is avoidable. With the right structural insights, you can drill smarter, faster, and with higher confidence. Let’s discuss in the comments or reach out to us – let’s talk about your next drilling campaign.

References

Lawie, D. (2024) Valuating Ore Body Knowledge – The Financial Keystone for Mining Success in: Geohug podcast -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFxtRdoVE6c

Maptek. (2018). Maptek Roy Hill smart mining partnership. Retrieved from:

https://www.maptek.com/forge/september_2018/roy_hill_smart_mining_partnership/

Monteiro, R. N. (2005) Structural Inversion: Concepts, Procedures and Implications to Mineral Exploration/Exploitation. Internal ITSL Memorandum. December 20, 2005. 5 pgs.

Vektore (2012–2025) various references: Structural Geology in Mineral Exploration – various short courses to University of Western Ontario and clients; Structural Vectoring Log – SVL; Best Practices in Structural Exploration Geology and Standard Operating Procedures; Software development: Ore.node, vSTAR and vSTAR App.

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Orebody Knowledge in Action: Tracing Unknown Ore Shoots of a World-Class IOCG

rogerio — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 16:55:16 +0000

Envision designing a drilling campaign with only part of the story – sounds familiar, right? That was exactly the challenge our client’s IOCG exploration team faced Monteiro (2014). Please note that, by Vektore’s Data Anonymization (DA) protocols, certain details about the deposit have been withheld or generalized to protect our clients.

Although we had geophysical data, much of it was overwhelmed by a strong and dispersed magnetic signature, making it ineffective for pinpointing new targets, particularly those with complex geometries. Copper-gold soil anomalies suggested a possible extension of a known IOCG deposit, leading us to design a drilling program to test a horizontal mineralization model across a recently acquired tenement. However, at the time, our core orientation set was limited, and crucial structural information was not extracted during the first round of logging. This meant we lacked insight into the internal features of the stratabound-style mineralization, leaving us uninformed of the true grade distribution, structural controls, and the existence of potential ore shoots. As a result, we were working with an incomplete picture, one that could significantly impact on our client’s drilling decisions.

We were tasked with reprocessing the available oriented core within the known mineralization, focusing on extracting structural features related to both mineralization and deposit architecture. Our goal was to assess whether the prescribed drilling pattern was appropriate, process the data, and define the internal structure of the mineralized system. Since grade distribution and structural features often share geometric patterns (Monteiro, 1996; Monteiro, 2004), we set out to identify and validate these relationships.

Our toolbox included the Structural Vectoring® Log, used to systematically capture and classify structural features observed in core, alongside with vPCD^TM (Vektore – point cloud deletion, 2012). Together, these methods enabled us to query, filter, and assign grade values to structural features, providing an initial assessment of grade-structure correlations. While our process involved stepwise deletion of lower-grade samples, our primary objective was to remove boreholes that did not align with mineralization geometry to refine the mineral intersection geometry (MIG). Further insights on mineralization- and architecture-related structural features can be found here: Exploration Success … What’s the Drill?

Over several months, we conducted detailed structural logging, focusing first on characterizing the structural controls on the mineralization system. This included sulphide lineations (see Figure 1), as well as the shape orientation of minerals and inclusions within sulphide stringers. In addition, we gave particular attention to mineralization-related structural features. To gain a better understanding of the geological framework, we also recorded architectural-related structural features, capturing the geometry in which mineralization was embedded. Our goal was to monitor the orientation distribution of these structural features under the working hypothesis that grades and lineations were spatially correlated. If validated, this relationship could be leveraged to optimize our drilling pattern and improve targeting efficiency.

Figure 1 Lineation of sulphide body (Lbds) developed over hydrothermal iron oxides. This lineation type was key to delineate ore shoot orientations.

As a result of the exploration team’s bold approach, the decision to revise the prescribed drilling pattern – guided by our structural analysis and deliverables – led to the discovery of a new Breccia Ore zone, returning approximately 95 Mt of copper-gold ore at 0.7% CuEq of inferred resources (communication from client). The deposit remains open to the north, and our work also identified additional ore shoot orientations that require further verification.

Ore shoot spatial orientations and their locations were determined, validating the hypothesis that mineralization-related structural features are directly linked to grade distribution (see Figure 2 and Figure 3). This structural insight also explains the bulls-eye anomaly in soil geochemistry, which aligns with the projection of north-dipping ore shoots (see Figure 4)

Figure 2 Highest grades processed using vPCD are shown (pink hexagons) along with the mineralization-related lineations – pre-drilling.

Figure 3 Highest grades processed using vPCD are shown (pink hexagons) along with the mineralization-related lineations – post-drilling.

Figure 4 Note the red vector representing the extension of the ore shoot is aligned to the bulls-eyed soil anomaly

The Value of Information (VoI – Lawie, 2024 and Gillis at al., 2024), which is the estimated worth of acquiring additional knowledge before making critical decisions, was clearly demonstrated through our work, significantly enhancing Orebody Knowledge (OBK – Maptek, 2018). By integrating newly gathered structural data, particularly from oriented core logging, our team gained a far clearer perspective on the geometry and continuity of the deposit, leading to the recognition of inclined ore shoots where none had previously been identified. This deeper understanding exemplifies the core principle of OBK, where every insight into a deposit’s architecture refines exploration strategies, reduces geological uncertainty, and enhances economic decision-making.

Through the application of Structural Vectoring, the prescribed drilling pattern was revised, allowing for the verification of grade distribution data and the validation of its relationship with mineralization-related structural features. This refinement directly influenced mineralization continuity, ensuring a more data-driven and geologically informed exploration strategy. The recognition of ore shoots introduced the possibility of underground mining, challenging the initial assumption that open-pit exploitation was the only viable option. This shift exemplifies the power of OBK-driven decision-making, where understanding the internal architecture of a deposit enables more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable resource extraction. The VoI in this case is evident – not only did it reduce geological uncertainty, but it also unveiled an entirely new economic pathway for resource development. Furthermore, these findings extend beyond this single deposit. Other IOCG sites in the region could benefit from this enhanced Orebody Knowledge, refining their exploration models, reducing risk, and improving drill targeting efficiency. Armed with such detailed structural knowledge, we can design more precisely drilling campaigns, model resources more accurately, and make better-informed decisions that directly shape our approach to discovering and developing IOCG deposits and other deposit types.

This case study exemplifies how high-value geological information transforms decision-making, optimizes resource strategies, and ultimately increases financial and operational efficiency. Investing in a VoI-driven approach to Orebody Knowledge is not just about collecting data – it’s about empowering smarter, more profitable decisions that maximize resource potential.

What if your best target is still hidden – this discovery was possible because we challenged assumptions and let geology lead the way. What’s your experience with structural geology in mineral exploration? What are your thoughts on this approach? Have you faced similar challenges? Let’s discuss!

References

Gillis, A., Steen, J., Dunbar, S. and Nordenflycht, A. (2024) What causes mining asset impairments? Resources Policy 90, pg 1-10.

Lawie, D. (2024) Valuating Ore Body Knowledge – The Financial Keystone for Mining Success in: Geohug podcast – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFxtRdoVE6c

Maptek. (2018). Maptek Roy Hill smart mining partnership. Retrieved from:

https://www.maptek.com/forge/september_2018/roy_hill_smart_mining_partnership/

Monteiro, R. N. (1996). Gold Mineralization at Ouro Fino Mine, Brazil (Doctoral dissertation). University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.

Monteiro, R. N., Fyfe, W. S., & Chemale, F. Jr. (2004). The impact of the linkage between grade distribution and petrofabric on the understanding of structurally controlled mineral deposits: Ouro Fino Gold Mine, Brazil. Journal of Structural Geology, 26(6), 1195–1214.

Monteiro, R. N. (2014) Structural Controls of Mineral Deposits …. How to Get it! SIMEXMIN 2014, 39 slides

Vektore (2012) Point Cloud Deletion (vPCD^TM) – Standard Operating Procedure.

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How Accurate are Alpha and Beta Measurements? Responding to Federico Arboleda and tackling the elephant in the room

rogerio — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 21:21:33 +0000

Thank you, Federico Arboleda, for reopening this important discussion on the accuracy of Alpha and Beta measurements – in your observation, the error is likely to fall within +/- 5 degrees – referring to the instrument-level measurement deviation. Core-reading goniometers, usually with 5 degrees marks, may typically provide, a +/- 2.5 decimal degrees readings by interpolation, which sets their precision; however, accuracy requires assessment of the real value. Furthermore, electronic devices would have other reading scales based on their internal components and calibrations. Nevertheless, it represents the instrument-level deviation, not the measurement-net deviation. Yet even the most accurate and precise structural reading methods cannot compensate for poorly oriented core, a persistent and often overlooked issue in the industry.

Indeed, your post has sparked a range of insightful responses from the community, spanning concerns about potential misuses to the challenges of ensuring robust QA/QC in core orientation programs and related structural readings. The emphasis on assessing measurement-net deviation – encompassing all steps from core orientation to the final application of the structural dataset, is both relevant and critical. As highlighted by Brett Davis and others, this issue extends far beyond the technicality of structural readings if we consider the final and usable product for the three-dimensional modeling of mineral targets (measurement-net accuracy and precision). These reactions highlight longstanding worries over the reliability and value of structural data, particularly since the introduction of the BallMarkTM core orientation tool, in the late 1990s. This innovation not only advanced the core orientation industry but also introduced a range of new workflows and challenges, including the critical issue of core misorientation. Effectively addressing these challenges is crucial for establishing stronger industry standards and reinforcing trust in the structural datasets that underpin three-dimensional modeling of mineral targets and orebodies.

The reliability of the core orientation program itself emerges as the foundation upon which all subsequent structural data depends on. Without robust, end-to-end QA/QC measures, even the most sophisticated structural reading method can fall short of providing the dependable datasets essential for geological modeling and mineral resource assessments. Therefore, as an industry, we must address the measurement-net accuracy and precision of structural readings in oriented core programs to overcome these significant and impactful issues. Key works like Ragan (1973), Nelson et al. (1987), Vearncombe & Vearncombe (1998), Marjoribanks (2010), Holcombe (2013), Stigsson and Munierand (2013), Davis (2014), and Myers et al. (2016), among others, address some these challenges and serve as essential reading for professionals in the field, and we highly recommend reading them.

In 2002, while working in the Thompson Nickel Belt in Canada, I encountered significant challenges measuring out-of-plane lineations of pentlandite, biotite, and inclusions within massive sulfides, including fault kinematics and fold asymmetry studies from oriented core (Figure 1). My objective was simple but crucial: correlate such lineations and fold asymmetry domains with nickel grade distribution to determine the mineralization structural controls and thus enhance predictability in short-term and near-mine drilling. Existing structural extraction methods, such as readings from core restoration rigs (commonly known as ‘rocket launchers’), which require adjustments for the influence of magnetic pyrrhotite, or Alpha-Beta-Gamma readings, which are inherently incapable of capturing out-of-plane lineations, have proven inadequate for meeting the stated requirements. While these limitations extend beyond your question, Federico, they remain fundamentally important in achieving reliable structural analysis and establishing connections with the spatial distribution of grades and the characterization of ore shoots (Figure 2). For a deeper understanding of the complexities of the nickel sulphide deposits in the Thompson Nickel Belt and the importance of developing a robust, lineation-rich structural database, I recommend consulting McDowell et al. (2007), Lightfoot et al. (2017), and Monteiro (2017).

Figure 1 Pentlandite-rich massive sulphide bodies as observed in underground openings at the Thompson mines – Thompson Nickel Belt, Canada. The left image shows a dashed lineation of biotite (dark elliptical spots), while the right image features strings and lineation of pentlandite (lighter dots embedded within a pyrrhotite matrix). It is important to note that these lines represent the traces of the lineation, which exists in three-dimensional space and extends beyond the photographed surface.

Figure 2 Projected trace of the folded ore shoots onto the Thompson Mine footwall, highlighting the critical link between structural architecture of the deposit and grade distribution. Modified from Lightfoot et al. (2017).

In response to this challenge, I developed a cylindrical coordinate-based reading system to independently measure lines and planes with high precision (Monteiro, 2002), now known as the Structural Vectoring® Log or SVL. By leveraging vector calculus and creating a custom Visual Basic code for Excel®, this system offered a robust solution to address the structural reading inconsistencies of other methods. It provided a reliable and straightforward way to collect kinematic and asymmetry data for a more complete structural readings and analysis of mineral targets. Simply put, any structural feature – planar or linear – and associated attributes that can be measured in an outcrop with a compass, can be also measured using the SVL method, whether from oriented and non-oriented core. This innovation and its intellectual property were safeguarded under Inco Ltd and Vale until their transfer to Vektore in 2012, following my retirement. Since then, we have been improving its readings and associated processes, and over time, this innovation evolved into the Structural Vectoring Log (SVL) – a module of the Ore.node software [Link to Ore.node], which has been adopted by leading companies to streamline their structural measurements (Vektore 2, 2012-2025). Building upon the SVL, we developed in 2023 the vSTAR™, an augmented-reality structural reader that prioritizes instrument-level accuracy, precision, speed, visualization and processing in real-time [Link to vSTAR]. These tools have the potential to transform how structural data is collected, analyzed, and integrated into mineral exploration workflows, driving significant efficiency and decision-making confidence (Vektore 1, 2012-2025).

Misoriented cores remains a major challenge, undermining entire datasets, rendering a very low measurement-net accuracy and precision. Aware of this issue, we began developing a suite of processes in 2005 to enhance the strength of both oriented and non-oriented core programs – the Structural Inversion and Structural Convergence methods (Monteiro, 2005 and Vektore 1&2, 2012-2025), which are part of the Quality Optimization process we are deploying in the industry.

Leading companies like Ero Copper, Centaurus Metals, Alvo Minerals, and OZ Minerals have embraced these workflows, by certifying their teams as Structural Optimization Specialists [Link to Post]. Through a hands-on 40-hour course, these Vektore-certified specialist gain the skills and knowledge needed to address core orientation misorientation challenges and elevate the measurement-net accuracy and precision of the structural data delivered to the geological modeling and resources teams.

We look forward to sharing more about these integrated solutions in future posts, where we will dive deeper into the techniques and open the conversation about how they can improve and simplify workflows to deliver robust datasets for analysis and integration to 3D models.

Consulted References

Davis, B. (2014). Use and abuse of oriented core; in: Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve Estimation. Second Edition;Publisher: AusIMM.

Lightfoot, P. C. et al. (2017) Relative contribution of magmatic and post-magmatic processes in the genesis of the Thompson Mine Ni-Co sulfide ores, Manitoba, Canada. Ore Geology Reviews 83 (2017).

Marjoribanks, R. (2010) Geological Methods in Mineral Exploration and Mining. Second Edition, Springer-Verlag, Berlin, 238 pp. https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-540-74375-0.

McDowell, G. M., Stewart, R. & Monteiro, R. M. (2007) In-mine Exploration and Delineation Using an Integrated Approach. Advances in Mine Site Exploration and Ore Delineation in: Proceedings of Exploration 07: Fifth Decennial International Conference on Mineral Exploration edited by B. Milkereit, 2007, p. 571-589.

Monteiro, R. N. (2002). Structural Analysis of Borehole Data and Structural Scenario Design. Inco Internal Peer Reviewed Report.

Monteiro, R.N. (2005) Structural Inversion: Concepts, Procedures and Implications to Mineral Exploration/Exploitation. Internal ITSL Memorandum. December 20, 2005.

Monteiro, R. N. (2017) Structural Controls of the Thompson Nickel Belt Mineral Deposits. SIMEXMIN 2017 (VIII Simpósio Brasileiro de Exploração Mineral) – 34 slides.

Myers, R. at al (2016) An Inexpensive Way to Maximize and Preserve the Value of Oriented Core: The Orientation Log. SEG Discovery (107): 1–19.

Nelson, R. A.; Lenox, L. C.; Ward, B. J. (1987). Oriented Core: Its Use, Error, and Uncertainty1AAPG Bulletin 71 (4): 357–367.

Ragan, D. (1973) Structural Geology: An Introduction to Geometrical Techniques. Second Edition, published by John Wiley & Sons Inc. 232 pages.

Stigsson, M. and Munierand, R. (2013) Orientation uncertainty goes bananas: An algorithm to visualise the uncertainty sample space on stereonets for oriented objects measured in boreholes. Computers & Geosciences, Volume 56, July 2013, Pages 56-61.

Vearncombe, J. and Vearncombe, S. (1998). Structural data from drill core. Australian Institute of Geoscientists, Bulletin. 22. 67-82.

Vektore 1 (2012-2025) Vektore Webpage at www.vektore.com

Vektore 2 (2012-2025) Best Practices in Structural Geology applied to Mineral Exploration.

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How conductivity is highlighted through vectoring of sulphide lineations

Master — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 13:54:50 +0000

Often times we observe tube-like sulphide bodies that cross through the core – usually with some obliquity to the core angle. These sulphides can be solidly connected or they can form sulphide clusters, which might still hold an overall tube-like or pencil-like shape.

I prefer to describe them as sulphide body lineations. In other instances, in nickel-sulphide exploration, we might see sulphide blebs or droplets that, by flattening or imposing flow, or both, develop an ellipsoidal shape. Occasionally, these blebs connect themselves along opposite faces of the core. In this case, I prefer to call them droplets-blebs sulphide lineations.

Despite their formational origin, we should first try to understand their shape, orientation and distribution. They are vectors! They are the most basic type of mineralization vectors at the core scale. Now we want to know what are they aiming at? How pervasive are they? These are questions that can be simply addressed at the drill site and validated as drilling progresses.

Indeed, if many of these mineralization vectors are distributed within or nearby mineralization envelops, they can distinctively show grade distribution and its continuity in space. They have the inherent capacity to direct towards the best locations for new drilling, which saves you time and money in your budget.

Continuity, in these cases, is pre-emptively determined by using multimeters – as indicated in the following images. Normally these lineations are not particularly constrained into planes, therefore we use the vSET Method© to fully read their parameters from the core. In this way our 3D models give the most robust picture possible.

ROGERIO MONTEIRO OCTOBER 23, 2014

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Exploration Success … What’s the Drill?

Master — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 13:53:35 +0000

Uncovering the real potential of an exploration target heavily relies on the capacity of an exploration team. The primary objective is to take a mineral target and soon transition it into an asset, which is valued by the market, or to walk away with confidence that exploration risks and uncertainties were properly dealt with. A skillful exploration team should be able to dynamically redirect exploration dollars based on real time analysis of the risks and uncertainties within a given portfolio.

Nevertheless, if you want to consistently drill for exploration success, take note of the following: drill into the mineral body, not the mineral target!

The discovery hole and the holes that follow must reveal the most reliable information to allow for an accurate valuation of a mineral property. The collection of mineral intersections created by drilling is the result of the interplay between two distinct geometries: the drilling configuration and the mineral body. I call this cloud of piercing-points mineral intersection geometry or MIG. MIG is not to be confused with the mineral envelope. MIG is about the orientation, distribution, quantity and quality of the mineral intersections provided by a drilling campaign. MIG is the set of mineral intersections used to produce a mineral envelope. Different exploration teams will surely come up with diverse MIGs and therefore they would be susceptible to create different mineral envelopes. Some mineral envelopes will be very good and some others will require additional drilling to approach a reasonable MIG. The best MIGs are the result of a real-time and dynamic review of each borehole that cuts through the mineral envelope. Necessary changes should be carried out to the next borehole and so forth – so the drilling geometry must be highly interactive, otherwise the MIGs will be poor. Well configured MIGs are more predictive and less expensive than the poor ones and will speak volumes about the experience and strengths of the exploration team. A mineral body with a reliable estimate of grade distribution and geometry is a required product to raise interest and investments.

How can one accomplish an effective drilling workflow task, which allows the drilling results to generate the best MIG possible, in a timely manner, within budget and thereby deliver value to investors?

In order to tackle this question one must recognize the power of drilling into the mineral body – a three-dimensional entity, to understand the grade distribution in the context of a particular geometry. This may seem simple and straightforward, but good exploration practices need to be followed to maximize value and minimize risk. The broad framework of such workflow is already out there in the industry (Vearncombe, J. & Vearncombe, S., 1998; Marjoribanks, R., 2010; Davis, B., 2012; Holcombe, R., 2014; and Monteiro, R.N., 2015). However, it needs to be reconfigured in such a way that it would allow for early predictionsabout the shape of the mineralization, and its continuity and grade distribution. In this context, I expect that if the current industry XYZG Exploration System is augmented with the addition of mineralization-related structural vectors to build the concept of the XYZGV Exploration System the reward should be significant – as it will be explained ahead. By adopting this practice, and optimizing the MIG, exploration geologists should be able to better manage their exploration time and budget, while reducing risk and controlling uncertainties.

The XYZG stands for (x, y, z) coordinates of a sample that returns G, which is the grade. The G of the XYZG is just a scalar property! This is the traditional geochemical or assay sample we collect from core. It is a one-dimensional value that has no directional information to be projected into the three-dimensional space – unless, for instance, it can be vectorized by variography; however, such vectorization requires a large amount of mineral intersections – increasing time and investments – before spatial inferences can be drawn.

On the other hand, XYZGV is geometry-based at each sample site. XYZGV stands for (x, y, z) coordinates that returns not only G but also V, which is a type of vector (Allemendinger, Cardozo and Fisher, 2012) – a structural vector! The XYZGV implies that a grade value, obtained from a sample at (x, y, z) coordinates can be described as a vector or axis.Therefore, this grade can be projected along the mineralization-related structural vector. It not only empowers the exploration geologists to early detect and understand the hidden architecture of the mineralization and continuity, but also prompts them to fast redirect drilling to better intersect the mineral body (Figure 1). Vektore has improved such practices (Monteiro, 2013a and c) with proven record of significant successful applications.

Figure 1 The XYZGV Exploration System allows us to predict the mineralization architecture and its continuity in early stages of exploration by vectorizing the mineralization-related structural features. Note that “V” represents the structural mineralization vector symbolized by the sulphide lineation in this nickel sulphide intersection. The red vector likely describes the flow direction during the mineralization event at this point in space with high probability of pointing towards the mineralization center. Grade and mineralization vectors are fully harmonized and as such they are powerful geometrical predictors.

How can grades and related structural vectors boost efficiency of exploration projects and improve the use of exploration resources?

The best possible path from target to deposit can become apparent and acted on, early in the exploration process, if V is considered; otherwise investments can be denied and discovery postponed. As it is indicated on Figure 1, structural mineralization vectors can effectively influence the decision-making process and its exploration path. The XYZGV Exploration System has the potential for providing explorers with a robust exploration workflow that should enable success! So, how can one move from XYZG to XYZGV? By adding two key players to the current exploration practices: oriented core and structural economic geology analysis. One needs to find and characterize the mineralization-related structural features and place them into a reference frame – 3D space, for further projections and predictions; and this is the basis for structural vectoring within the mineralization space. Structural vectoring leads us to better MIGs and more accurate mineral envelopes.

In order to justify the shift towards the XYZGV Exploration System one needs to recognize its potential benefits. Although the use of oriented core and structural geology has increased recently, the current industry practice needs to be improved. Very few companies use core-orientation as part of their best practices, and some of those that have implemented it in the past are still challenged by its workflow and QAQC – fortunately, such issues can be resolved and streamlined if good practices and methods are applied (Monteiro, R. N., 2015 – vektore.com/services/technology-transfer/).

The mining sector is in its critical downturn at the moment. Investments are sparse and investors are carefully scrutinizing potential projects based on their well demonstrated value. Perception of project value and timing are critical! It is vital we extract the maximum amount of relevant information from core and quickly react to avoid costs that do not add value and are detrimental to the project. Such costs could potentially drive us to dead ends. By adopting the XYZGV Exploration System, one is able to capture and understand the broad architecture and structural controls of the mineral body in the early stages of its exploration, with fewer intersections. Adding V to the exploration geologist’s toolbox should provide sufficient and robust information to direct drilling with the goal of solving geometrical uncertainties as soon as they appear – improving efficiency. For this reason, the XYZGV Exploration System empowers us to act earlier and more effectively in the decision making process. Its inherent capacity of quickly determine the most reliable MIG is substantial and it brings excellent backing for an effective press release.

Exploration companies that incorporate V into their current practices would be able to generate better MIGs and interactively and effectively better dissect a mineral body. Therefore, it is not difficult to predict that the XYZGV Exploration System and its capacity to work with structural mineralization vectors will become a valuable requirement in the mineral exploration business in the near future. The current industry situation represents a great opportunity to test the value of implementing the XYZGV Exploration System. Within this context, in a recent interview published by the Northern Miner Daily News (2015), Mr. Cochrane, a senior research analyst at the Metals and Mining Consultancy in London, stated that if gold price fall below US$1,000/oz., miners will have to raise their cut-off grades and focus on richer zones. In this case the understanding of the internal features of their mineral bodies (patterns, linkages, oreshoots’ geometry and continuities) are paramount – adding “V” to the XYZG most definitively helps addressing this need. Today’s mantra is to be fast, within budget and to efficiently deliver results to your investors.

So, why should one drill into the mineral body and not into the mineral target?

The mineral body is a three-dimensional entity, while the mineral target is usually expressed in two dimensions – the surface. Although related, the mineral body and the mineral target have very distinctive features. By adding the structural vector component to the XYZG we are able to better individualize and set them apart. As such, if one vectorizes the mineralization-related geometrical features observed at each drilling intersection, and progressively takes it into account on subsequent drilling, one is definitively drilling into the mineral body, which is far more effective and rewarding than drilling the mineral target. Interactive drilling and dynamic assessment of the exploration drilling based on the diligent vectorization of the mineralization-related structures is the key concept I am conveying! Since drilling into the mineral body requires a distinct and organized deployment of tools, methods and exploration drive in tune with the concepts presented above, it is very important to understand the roles and values of the following big players: MIG, XYZG, XYZGV, mineral target, mineral body and mineralization-related structures. Such drilling campaign definitely requires a well-designed oriented core program combined with a comprehensive structural economic geology analysis! This proposition is presented in

Figure 2, (based on the Blue Ocean Strategy – Kim and Mauborgne, 2005) where we present some of the main players or competing factors that best describe the differences between the two exploration approaches in consideration – XYZG and XYZGV. The competing factors grouped under “create” are critical for structural vectoring and efficiency of an exploration approach, and they are only available in the XYZGV Exploration System. This diagram provides another dimension to our discussion.

Figure 2 Strategy canvas comparing the XYZG (red line) and XYZGV (blue line) exploration systems based on competing factors. Eleven competing factors are considered in this diagram – scores are from low to high at each competing factor. These factors are grouped into “Reduce”, “Raise” and “Create”, which should be lowered, increased or added, respectively, to create a more efficient exploration approach. Note that the competing factors grouped under “Create” are only available to the XYZGV Exploration System. The XYZGV Exploration System outperforms its industry standard competitor, and adds desirable capacities to our toolbox.

Do you to have intersected mineralization without oriented core? Where to drill next?

Instead of using the trial-and-error drilling approach, with the hope of intersecting mineralization, one should test ways of figuring out the architecture of the target. In this regard, various methods to resolve this problem have been proposed in the literature. More recently, Holcombe (2010 and references herein) reinstated the idea of using the known orientation of a particular reference structure to re-position non-oriented core intervals in its likely original orientation. He called this procedure partially oriented core technique. As a different approach, the Structural Inversion© Method, devised in 2005, is a significant development in the field of processing structural data from non-oriented core. It uses a robust algebraic algorithm to recast the likely orientation of key structural mineralization vectors, which allows significant geometrical predictions (Monteiro, R.N., 2005; Monteiro, R.N. and Koronovich, J., 2006; and Monteiro, R.N., 2013b). This method was single-blind tested before it was deployed for use (Monteiro, 2013b and d and references herein). Since then, it has been used in various exploration sites with significant results by re-directing drilling towards unknown mineral body extensions; notably: IOCGs in Carajas and copper-related mineral targets in the Vale do Curaçá (Brazil). This method should not only conveniently help you to quickly understand the mineral body geometry, but also to acquire sufficient information to predict its extensions and to design a better drilling geometry. Indeed, such application should show you the benefits of capturing the structural mineralization vectors of your mineral target, even before you have been able to implement your own XYZGV program with oriented core.

As a final point, if we drill into the mineral body guided by vectoring the mineralization-related structural features we will significantly augment the probability of an exploration success outcome. This statement comes from our experience derived from different deposit types and exploration sites in a diverse range of mineral districts (nickel sulphides in the Thompson Nickel Belt and in the Sudbury Igneous Complex in Canada; IOCGs in the Carajas Mineral District, gold mineralization in the Iron Quadrangle, copper mineralization in the Vale do Curaçá in Brazil; and copper mineralization in the Copper Belt in Africa). The XYZGV Exploration System has the potential of being one of the much-needed changes in our industry! So, let us drill into the mineral body, not the mineral target! This action will not only potentially increase the return of exploration investments but also strengthen the credibility of the exploration team. Serious investors are on the look for that!

Consulted References:

Allemendinger, R.W., Cardozo, N. and Fisher, D.M. (2012) – Structural Geology Algorithms: Vectors and Tensors. Cambridge University Press. 289 pp.

Davis, B. (2012) Drill core orientation – An Inconvenient Truth – Parts 1, 2 and 3. http://www.orefind.com/

Holcombe, R. (2010) Oriented Drillcore: Measurement, Conversion, and QA/QC procedures for Structural and Exploration Geologists. 36 pp.

Kim, W.C., Mauborgne, R. (2005). Blue Ocean Strategy: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant. Boston: Harvard Business School Press. ISBN 978-1591396192.

Marjoribanks, R. (2010) Geological Methods in Mineral Exploration and Mining. Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg, 2nd Edition. 238 pp.

Monteiro, R. N. (2003). Structural Analysis of Borehole Data and Structural Scenario Design. Inco Internal Peer Reviewed Report.

Monteiro, R.N. (2005) Structural Inversion: Concepts, Procedures and Implications to Mineral Exploration/Exploitation. Internal ITSL Memorandum. December 20, 2005.

Monteiro, R.N. and Koronovich, J. (2006). Structural Inversion. Vale’s Technical Journal, OreShape Vol. 2, Issue 2, pg. 1..20-24. Inco Technical Services Structural Economic Geology Quarterly Newsletter.

Monteiro, R.N. (2011) Best Practices in Applied Structural Geology – Exploration and Exploitation of Mineral Deposits. Vale Global Exploration Technical Services.

Monteiro, R.N. (2013d) – Structural Economic Geology in Mineral Exploration – Day Three, Short Course, 51 slides.

Monteiro, R.N. (2013b) – The Structural Inversion© Method. Vektore Exploration Consulting Corporation internal report.

Monteiro, R.N. (2013a) Best Practices in Applied Structural Economic Geology – Mineral Exploration. Vektore Exploration Consulting Corporation internal report.

Monteiro, R.N. (2015) Vektore Webpage at www.vektore.com

Northern Miner Daily News (2015) Gold price fall may trigger another round of write-downs – interview with Cochrane, R. on July 24th, 2015. http://www.northernminer.com/news/gold-price-fall-may-trigger-another-round-of-write-downs/1003695595/sv64s8vMxvwq48svWo4zqvs4M2vx/?ref=enews_NM&utm_source=NM&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=NM-EN07272015. Accessed on July 27th, 2015.

Vearncombe, J. & Vearncombe, S. (1998) Structural Data from Drill Core. In: More meaningful data in the mining industry. AIG Bulleting 22, pp 67-82.

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Challenges in Exploration Today: Remarks from Vektore’s 2015 PDAC discussions

Master — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 13:49:46 +0000

Thanks to all who attended Vektore’s meeting space at the 2015 PDAC! Your presence helped make the day a success. The focus of our discussions was centered on the current challenges faced by the mineral industry, as well as possible solutions.

Indeed, the industry downturn for the past few years – combined with the increasing difficulty to find the new generation of mineral deposits, hidden and deeper – requires immediate attention on meaningful and efficient innovation in the exploration mindset to start reverting the process from the inside-out.

Geophysics and geochemistry, outfitted with their exploration vectoring capacities, have been used with great success in pointing towards new deposits. Nevertheless, explorers still need to significantly escalate discoveries within this very apprehensive industry. It is Vektore’s opinion that there is much to be gained with the combination of the current geophysical and geochemical exploration practices with that of applied structural geology. We foresee that the combined harmonization of these three fields will take place in the near future as we seek solutions for finding greater numbers and new variations of mineral deposits.

It is well recognized that shape and continuity of the mineralization system, as well as its geometry and topology, are critical in unravelling the real potential of a target. For such features to be fully characterized and understood, the incorporation of other tools and methods is required.

We believe that Structural Vectoring is the next layer of exploration rationale, which should be further developed and harmonized with the already known vectoring capacities of geophysics and geochemistry. We foresee that the amalgamation of these three fields will take place in the near future, leading to the solutions we seek to significantly increase our exploration capacities.

These three players, embedded into a sound geology, should lead not only to much-needed new discoveries, but also to elucidating and expanding existing projects, while reducing expenditures. Geophysical-geochemical-structural vectoring is a robust proposition for an inside-out exploration mindset change. Keep in touch with Vektore for the upcoming posts regarding structural vectoring.

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Structural Vectoring in mineral exploration: what it is and how, when and why we should use it

Master — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 13:44:21 +0000

Friday, March 4 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Organizer: Rogerio Noal Monteiro, Ph.D. (Vektore Exploration Consulting Corporation) – this course will have the special participation of Mr. Ben Polzer, M.Sc. from Nova Mining Exploration Solutions.

The goal of Structural Vectoring is to define the linkage between structural features and mineralization processes and use it to predict location, shape, orientation and continuity of mineral bodies. This linkage is particularly useful when drilling a mineral target. In this course we will present and discuss the concept of Structural Vectoring in mineral exploration and recommend a suitable workflow. In addition, we will show plausible ways to harmonize Structural Vectoring with geochemistry and geophysics to significantly improve exploration of mineral targets. Since this course is centered on target evaluation and development, we will focus on Structural Vectoring concepts, tools and methods at the drilling stage.

The instructors will present samples of real cases mineralization-related structural features and discuss how to collect such data, and use these features as predictive tools for direct drilling towards mineral bodies. Strategies on what, why and how many structures should be collected to provide a robust dataset will be proposed to the group and debated. The guidelines for structural logging of core will be carried out by using core samples.

A new method of collecting structural features from oriented and non-oriented core, the vSET© Method, will be introduced to the attendants, who will have the opportunity to compare its characteristics and strengths with current industry standard methods. The Structural Inversion© Method will also be discussed during the course. This practical exercise will help prepare attendants to solve their real case geometrical problems, leading to a better understanding of mineralization processes and their interactions with host architecture. The geometry of drilling and its interaction with a mineral body will be also discussed and viewed from the Structural Vectoring perspective.

Furthermore, the instructors will illustrate the usefulness of Structural Vectoring through a series of case studies that have significantly changed the outcome of exploration projects.

Level of Comprehension: Intermediate

Course Agenda

09:00 – 09:30 1. Introduction to Exploration Vectoring