Chongqing: Manganese Ore Survey and Molybdenum-Vanadium Ore Exploration

According to a report from the iNature website, the 607 Geological Team of the Chongqing Geological and Mineral Bureau, during the key mineral exploration project in Chongqing—the "Xiushan County Ganzhiba Manganese Mine Reconnaissance"—transformed a singular focus on manganese exploration into a comprehensive survey that also included molybdenum and vanadium. This effort led to the discovery of a secondary manganese mineralization center in the Xiaochayuan area, indicating significant prospecting potential in the peripheral regions. This breakthrough in integrated exploration for manganese, molybdenum, and vanadium has been recognized, with the project recently awarded the Second Prize for Outstanding Geological Achievements in Chongqing for 2024 by the Chongqing Geological and Mining Association.

Over the years, the Chongqing 607 Geological Team has conducted in-depth research on critical geological issues related to the formation of Datangpo-type manganese deposits in Xiushan, including the structure of the Nanhua rift basin, basin-controlling tectonics, sources of manganese-forming materials, sedimentary environments, and ore-control patterns. Their work in Xiaochayuan confirmed the presence of a large-scale manganese deposit, ending the historical absence of large manganese deposits of the Datangpo type in Chongqing. As part of the new round of strategic breakthroughs in mineral exploration, the team undertook projects such as the "Xiushan County Ganzhiba Manganese Mine Reconnaissance" in Chongqing. It is reported that the 607 Team optimized the placement of boreholes, achieving a 100% success rate in intersecting ore, and submitted newly identified manganese ore resources exceeding expectations by over 70%, with an estimated addition of more than 3 million tons of manganese ore resources, significantly enhancing exploration efficiency.

In Xiushan County, Chongqing, molybdenum and vanadium deposits are primarily distributed in areas such as Xikou Town and Gaotian Town. For instance, Xikou Town hosts molybdenum and vanadium resources with significant mining potential, including the exceptionally large Yangshikeng mercury deposit, with associated molybdenum and vanadium resources nearby. Gaotian Town has also been confirmed to contain underground vanadium deposits and other mineral resources.

Molybdenum is a metallic element characterized by a high melting point, high hardness, and high strength. At room temperature, it does not react with hydrochloric acid, hydrofluoric acid, or alkaline solutions. Molybdenum is widely used in the steel industry, where it enhances the strength, toughness, and heat resistance of steel, making it a key component in the production of various high-strength alloy steels and stainless steels. In the electronics industry, molybdenum serves as a material for components in electron tubes and transistors. Additionally, it is utilized in manufacturing high-temperature components for the aerospace sector and as a catalyst in the chemical industry, making it an indispensable metal in modern industrial applications.

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