Abstract:
After decades of vigorous development, the field of quantitative mineral resource prediction and evaluation has advanced significantly, driven by both data-driven and knowledge-driven approaches, providing essential technical support for China’s mineral exploration planning and discoveries. In the current era of unprecedented change, securing overseas mineral resources is crucial for ensuring the stability of China’s mineral supply chain. However, traditional quantitative prediction methods, while effective in assessing geological potential, often fail to account for the complexities of development conditions, particularly in overseas settings. This paper addresses this gap by conducting a comprehensive analysis of the stratigraphy, tectonics, and physical exploration data of Central Africa copper-cobalt belt, employing GIS and RS technologies. The weight-of-evidence method is utilized for quantitative mineral resource prediction, which is then integrated with infrastructure evaluation metrics such as water, electricity, and road access using the TOPSIS method. This integrated approach allows for a more holistic assessment of exploration projects, culminating in the grading of 284 prospecting mining rights in the region. The findings not only offer valuable insights for Chinese enterprises engaging in overseas investments and mergers and acquisitions but also contribute to the evolution of quantitative prediction and evaluation in the field of mineral resources.