Geological Characteristics and 3D Modeling of the Pobrdje Borate Deposit

Abstract

The volcanogenic–sedimentary Pobrdje deposit represents the first and currently the only active borate mine within the territory of the Republic of Serbia. The genesis and present-day morphology of the deposit are the result of a complex interaction between tectonic processes, hydrothermal fluids, and a lacustrine environment, controlled by specific relief and paleoclimatic conditions.

The Pobrdje deposit is located within the Ibar intramontane basin, which belongs to the Dinaric tectonic belt and represents one of the Neogene lacustrine systems. Based on exploration drilling and mining exploration activities, the morphostructural and morphogenetic characteristics of the deposit were defined, indicating a geometry composed of two subparallel layers. The geological setting of the deposit is characterized by an alternation of sandstones, claystones, tuffaceous, and carbonates, with a characteristic presence of kerogen observed throughout the underground mine workings.

Implicit modeling of the ore bodies was performed using the Studio RM software package (Datamine), resulting in the development of a genetic model of the deposit. The database was constructed from exploration drillhole data and detailed mapping of underground mine workings, which enabled the generation of a series of pseudo-drillholes based on mapped drifts. The modeling results identified three subparallel ore layers, as well as a zone of vertical mineralization in the southern part of the investigated area, suggesting the presence of a potential feeder structure. The model highlights the southern part of the deposit as particularly prospective in terms of resource expansion.