Fractal modeling and fry analysis of the relationship between structures and Cu mineralization in Saveh region, Central Iran

Abstract The Saveh region in the middle part of the Urumieh-Dokhtar Magmatic Belt (UDMB), Central Iran, contains several Cu mineralization and deposits that may have been localized by structural controls in the region. Along the major thrust fault, the Saveh region comprises intrusive bodies associated with various Cu occurrences and deposits. The NW-SE major faults, especially the Khalkhab and Koshk-e-Nosrat faults on the Iranian plates, created a sigmoid space for the emplacement of plutons during middle Eocene. The Cu occurrences/deposits are either vein- or manto-style, with vein-style being dominant. The lineaments and faults in the Saveh region were mapped using precise local data including remote sensing (Landsat ETM+), digital elevation models (DEM), geomagnetic airborne images, geological maps and field observations. The relationship between Cu occurrences/deposits and geological structures (the latter being described by a lineament factor (LF) or fracture density) is important for focusing of ore-forming fluids and mineralization. This was analyzed by concentration-area (C-A) fractal modeling and by Fry analysis. The results of the C-A fractal modeling and Fry analysis indicate that the vein-style Cu mineralization is associated with major NW-SE-trending faults, especially the Khalkhab and Koshk-e-Nosrat faults. Manto-style Cu mineralization in the Saveh region is associated with minor NE-SW-trending faults.