3D geological modeling and application for strategic mineral resources in the national mineral resources survey of Shaanxi province

To meet the requirements for assessing strategic mineral resources in the National Mineral Resources Survey of Shaanxi Province and to overcome the limitations of traditional two-dimensional geological data, such as dispersed information and insufficient spatial expression capabilities, this paper proposes a standardized workflow for 3D geological modeling. This workflow aims to achieve the digital transition of geological information from 2D to 3D digital geological information, thereby enhancing the precision of resource assessment and visual representation capabilities. Focusing on 15 key mining areas in Shaanxi Province, covering various strategic minerals with complex metallogenic conditions, this study established a standardized process leveraging professional geological modeling software. The key steps include data preparation and validation, digital terrain model construction, implementation of differentiated solid modeling strategies for various orebody types, and resource estimation through grade interpolation and density assignment. The conducted 3D models not only three-dimensionally reflect the control patterns of geological features such as faults and folds on the spatial distribution of orebodies but also achieve high accuracy in resource estimation. This research provides critical technical support for Shaanxi's 'One Map’ management system for mineral resources. The standardized workflow offers substantial theoretical and practical value for improving modern management practices in regional mineral exploration and development.