The VECTOR Portal – Publications

Nanoscale mineralogical evidence confirms Cu transport as chloride complexes in brines in the Central European Kupferschiefer district

We are excited to share newly published results that help us to understand the genesis of deposits in the Central European Kupferschiefer district. We have used a transmission electron microscope (TEM) to investigate minerals at the nanoscale in Cu-mineralized mudstones from the Saale subbasin (eastern Germany). This has allowed us to show how Cu chloride mineral phases (atacamite, nantokite) formed in association with clay minerals as Cu-bearing fluids reacted with the host rock. Importantly, these results provide direct evidence of a highly saline ore fluid that moved through the host rock when it was buried to > 2 km depth!

Hyperspectral mapping of density, porosity, stiffness, and strength in hydrothermally altered volcanic rocks [Preprint]

Heterogeneous structures and diverse volcanic, hydrothermal, and geomorphological processes hinder the characterisation of the mechanical properties of volcanic rock masses. Laboratory experiments can provide accurate rock property measurements, but are limited by sample scale and labor-intensive procedures. In this contribution, we expand on previous research linking the hyperspectral fingerprints of rocks to their physical and mechanical properties. Our results demonstrate that hyperspectral imaging can serve as a robust proxy for rock physical and mechanical properties, offering an efficient, scalable method for characterising large areas of exposed volcanic rock. The integration of these data with geomechanical models could enhance hazard assessment, infrastructure development, and resource utilisation in volcanic regions.

Petrophysics-guided reprocessing of legacy seismic data to improve mineral exploration targeting in the Irish Zn-Pb Orefield [Preprint]

The Limerick Syncline represents a geologically complex and relatively underexplored region. A thick volcanic sequence overlies and interfingers with the carbonate host rocks, mineralisation and alteration. This setting has posed significant challenges to seismic imaging in the region. As a result, the overall structural setting of the area has remained poorly understood. This study presents an optimised seismic processing workflow tailored to these geological complexities and applied to the legacy 2D seismic reflection profile LK-11-02

TensorWeave 1.0: Interpolating geophysical tensor fields with spatial neural networks [Preprint]

Tensor fields, as spatial derivatives of scalar or vector potentials, offer powerful insight into subsurface structures in geophysics. However, accurately interpolating these measurements – such as those from full-tensor potential field gradiometry – remains difficult, especially when data are sparse or irregularly sampled. We present a physics-informed spatial neural network that treats tensors according to their nature as derivatives of an underlying scalar field, enabling consistent, high-fidelity interpolation across the entire domain. Results show significant improvements in interpolation accuracy, structural continuity, and uncertainty quantification compared to conventional methods.

Maximising the value of hyperspectral drill core scanning through real-time processing and analysis

Hyperspectral imaging data has huge applications in minerals exploration, especially early in the exploration workflow where it could enhance geological logging, constrain better sampling strategies or inform drilling decisions. To help realise this potential, we have developed an open-source framework that allows the real-time processing and interactive visualisation of hyperspectral drillcore scanning data — delivering interactive results within minutes of data acquisition. We hope that this helps industry, government and academia realise the true potential of hyperspectral core scanning technology.

Multiphysics property prediction from hyperspectral drill core data

Hyperspectral data provide rich information on both the mineralogical and fine-scale textural properties of rocks, which also control their petrophysical characteristics. We propose that some physical rock properties can be predicted directly from hyperspectral data, improving petrophysical characterisation and reducing the need for often laborious measurements. In this contribution we explore correlations between hyperspectral and petrophysical data using a deep convolutional neural network

What are the challenges teachers face in teaching about controversial or contentious aspects and climate change and society reaching ‘Net Zero’.

What pedagogical approaches are currently used how can teachers’ confidence and competence be supported to address issues such as the sourcing of raw materials required to meet carbon net zero? Through this research, educationalists and geoscientists from three EY countries are being engaged through a Participatory Action Learning and Action Research (PALAR) process to answer these questions. In doing so VECTOR is drawing on the just pedagogies of Global Education and Learning ot support both critical enquiry and critical thinking.’

Jadarite’s unique recipe

Jadarite is a lithium-bearing mineral with the potential to facilitate the green energy transition. However, the route to form it is so specific that it is only known from one deposit on Earth, as Francesco Putzolu and colleagues explain.

Origin of the Jadar Volcano-Sedimentary Li-B Deposit, Serbia

The Jadar deposit (Serbia) is a unique end member of the volcano-sedimentary Li deposit class, where the main ore mineral is jadarite, to date only recorded at the Jadar locality. We provide an account of the features of the Jadar deposit based on the study of legacy data.

Deliverables | Publications | 1oo Perceptions: Raw Materials | GreenDealz | Who Decides? | VECTOR Simulator | Education | Podcast | Videos | Resources | External eNewsletters | Info-Packs