Evaluating chromite ore deposits: An integrated magnetic and geochemical study in the Kohistan Island Arc of northern Pakistan

Extensive chromite deposits have been documented and extracted from the ophiolitic belts in northern and western Pakistan. This research investigates chromite ore's magnetic response and associated mineral's concentrations. Measurements from 225 observation stations revealed significant magnetic anomalies, with peak values of 4155.34 nT (Profile A), 3607 nT (Profile B), 3450.3 nT (Profile C), 2247.02 nT (Profile D), and 5146.35 nT (Profile E). Geochemical analysis of fifty-three rock samples showed high concentrations of chromium (324 mg/kg), iron (30,660 mg/kg), nickel (114,000 mg/kg), cobalt (263.8 mg/kg), copper (147.34 mg/kg), and lead (376.4 mg/kg). The highest concentrations of iron, chromium, nickel, cobalt, copper, and lead were found in specific samples within different profiles. Principal Component Analysis suggests that iron, nickel, manganese, and arsenic share a common origin, indicating a standard ore body that may include hematite, magnetite, realgar, or pentlandite. These findings highlight a complex, multi-mineralized ore body with significant economic potential. Pakistan's chromite and associated deposits, especially in nickel and cobalt, are crucial for renewable energy technologies and present large-scale mining opportunities. This study emphasizes the need to systematically explore Pakistan's mineral resources to enhance its role in the global mineral market.