Integrated Multi‐Physics Characterisation of the Northern Kiruna Mining District With Machine‐Learning‐Assisted Interpretation

ABSTRACT

Integrated earth modelling aims to combine all available geoscientific information to derive one common earth model. However, combining multiple parameters in a meaningful way remains challenging. In this study, we aim to improve mineral exploration workflows through the integration of new magnetotelluric data with other geophysical and petrophysical data to enhance local geological understanding of the northern Kiruna mining district, Norrbotten, Sweden. The area is economically important and geoscientifically interesting. We derived three‐dimensional (3D) geophysical models based on new magnetotelluric data and previously collected gravity and magnetic data. The magnetotelluric data and the resulting 3D electrical‐resistivity model are described in detail. Additionally, a new petrophysical dataset containing surface and subsurface samples and their density, electrical resistivity and magnetic susceptibility is presented and linked to the 3D geophysical models. The geophysical 3D models are interpreted using information gained from the measured rock properties, allowing for correlation and cross‐validation between models and geology. Integration of a clustering approach into the mineral exploration workflow allows for a holistic interpretation of all information available in the area. These interpretations and models improve understanding of the Per Geijer mineral system, its immediate surroundings and the relationships between local rock types and their geophysical and mineralogical signatures.