Leucogranite mapping via convolutional recurrent neural networks and geochemical survey data in the Himalayan orogen

Geochemical survey data analysis is recognized as an implemented and feasible way for lithological mapping to assist mineral exploration. With respect to available approaches, recent methodological advances have focused on deep learning algorithms which provide access to learn and extract information directly from geochemical survey data through multi-level networks and outputting end-to-end classification. Accordingly, this study developed a lithological mapping framework with the joint application of a convolutional neural network (CNN) and a long short-term memory (LSTM). The CNN-LSTM model is dominant in correlation extraction from CNN layers and coupling interaction learning from LSTM layers. This hybrid approach was demonstrated by mapping leucogranites in the Himalayan orogen based on stream sediment geochemical survey data, where the targeted leucogranite was expected to be potential resources of rare metals such as Li, Be, and W mineralization. Three comparative case studies were carried out from both visual and quantitative perspectives to illustrate the superiority of the proposed model. A guided spatial distribution map of leucogranites in the Himalayan orogen, divided into high-, moderate-, and low-potential areas, was delineated by the success rate curve, which further improves the efficiency for identifying unmapped leucogranites through geological mapping. In light of these results, this study provides an alternative solution for lithologic mapping using geochemical survey data at a regional scale and reduces the risk for decision making associated with mineral exploration.