https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/ Geopersia en daily 1 Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0330 Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0330 https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_102177.html Global warming and climate change have repeatedly led to droughts in arid and semi-arid regions such as Iran. When these droughts are compounded by poor management of groundwater resources, severe water crises occur. This leads to a deterioration of groundwater resources in terms of both quantity and quality. The excessive abstraction of groundwater for human consumption, e.g. for drinking, industrial and agricultural purposes, leads to a sharp decline in groundwater levels and ultimately to land subsidence. This study deals with the effects of climate change and the mismanagement of groundwater resources in the Neyriz plain. For the hydrogeological study, iso-potential and flowline maps from September 1995 to 2020, iso-EC lines from September 1998 to 2020, and hydrographs and chemograms of the aquifer were plotted along with Piper, Durov, Shoeller and Gibbs diagrams. The results indicate an annual drawdown of 0.4 meters in the plain and a decline in water quality from 1998 to 2020. The cross section along the aquifer in 1998 and 2020 reveals a reverse slope of the water level near the lake, which has led to surface saltwater intrusion into the aquifer from the lake that increasing by about 175 percent from 1998 to 2020. Since there are no geophysical surveys in the area, the depth of the bedrock was estimated based on the maximum depth of the nearby production wells. The volume of the aquifer was calculated using ArcGIS software for each year from 1995 to 2020 and an empirical equation was derived to predict the volume of the aquifer based on the water level of the plain in the present or in the future. Based on the relationship between groundwater level, EC and volume of the aquifer, it was found that the aquifer behaves differently when the level is above or below 1538 meters. It was found that below 1538 meters, the lateral surface of the aquifer in the western part decreases sharply, reducing the volume of the aquifer and increasing the infiltration of salt water from the lake. It is therefore recommended to carry out artificial recharge in the Neyriz Plain to prevent the water table from dropping especially bellow 1538 meters. In addition, the construction of an underground dam at the western partof the aquifer can effectively prevent saltwater intrusion from the lake. In addition, the thickness of the aquifer in the plain was plotted for selected years to observe changes over time. The results indicate that the aquifer boundary should be reassessed. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_102238.html Nekarood karst basin (NRKB) is located near the southern coast of the Caspian Sea, in Mazandaran province, Iran. The recharge potential map of this karst basin was prepared by considering lithology, slope, aspect, density of streams, precipitation, density of fractures, epikarst and karst features using GIS. These factors have been weighted using information obtained from geological maps, satellite images and field investigations. The results show that the values of recharge in NRKB varies from 12 to 45%. Based on this, the total amount of annual recharge in this basin is estimated to be about 243 million cubic meters. Based on the obtained results, the annual discharge of groundwater in the area is estimated about 71 million cubic meters. Due to the fact that there is no important consumer in the NRKB, the discharges of the springs in this basin form the base flow of the river. The evaluation of the annual volume of the base flow of Nekarood River shows that it is in good agreement with the annual discharge of the springs in the area. The water budget studies in NRKB indicate that the recharge volume is significantly higher compared to its discharge. In addition, the investigations show that there are no discharge zones in adjacent areas. Due to the existence of an important fault zone in this karst basin which extends towards the sea, most likely a significant part of the recharge water in this karst basin is discharged into the sea. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_102716.html The study area is located in the N-NE Bafq and the central Iran structural zone. The Rizu-Desu volcano-sedimentary sequence is crosscut by bimodal (basic and felsic) intrusions and dikes, with compositions ranging from monzogabbro to leucogranite. In the monzogabbro-monzodiorite intrusions (540 to 520 Ma) of the investigated region, plagioclase (with a dominant albite-oligoclase composition), pyroxene (diopside and augite), Ca-Fe-Ti-rich amphiboles (magnesiohornblende, tschermakite, Kaersutite, and ferrokaersutite), and biotite (Fe-biotite and Mg-biotite, and also Ti-rich (0.38-1)) are the essential minerals. Apatite, monazite, magnetite, titanomagnetite, titanite (sphene), and zircon are also accessory minerals. Geothermobarometry investigations based on the mineral chemistry of pyroxene, amphibole, and biotite indicate the temperatures of cessation of exchange and final equilibrium of the minerals, mainly covering a temperature range of 1270 to 1140 °C (pyroxenes), 890-790 °C (amphiboles) and 780-745 °C (biotites) (in respectively) and the pressure mainly cover range of 12.33 to 0.5 kbar. Petrological features of the studied rocks are very similar to those of appinite rocks. The parental magmas of monzogabbro-monzodiorite intrusions have mostly an alkaline nature and originated from partial melting of the metasomatized mantle source in an intracontinental rift tectonic setting. The resulting magmas evolved by fractional crystallization, and possibly crustal contamination, then emplaced in the continental crust around the Ediacaran-Cambrian boundary. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_102903.html Climate change is one of the most significant challenges for some arid and semi-arid regions, potentially limiting access to water resources in the future. Integrated water resource management in these areas could be a viable approach to adapt the impacts of climate change. This study examines the effects of climate change on the surface and groundwater resources of the Khorramabad River Basin using the MODFLOW and WEAP models. Initially, the current conditions of surface and groundwater resources were simulated monthly using the WEAP and MODFLOW models for the statistical period from October 2010 to September 2023. The two models were then linked, yielding values of NSE=0.87, RMSE=0.65, and R²=0.97, indicating the acceptable performance of the WEAP-MODFLOW model in simulating surface and groundwater. Subsequently, the status of surface and groundwater resources was projected for the future (2025–2060) under SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5 scenarios. The results from these scenarios show a decline in annual average precipitation and an increase in minimum and maximum annual temperatures. According to the results of the integrated WEAP-MODFLOW model, the annual average river discharge, groundwater levels, and aquifer storage will decline under SSPs scenarios compared to the baseline period. Therefore, Climate change will hinder the availability of drinking and industrial water. Constructing the Makhmalkouh Dam could nearly fulfill the water demands for both drinking and industrial sectors across all three SSPs scenarios. This dam's construction would also mitigate groundwater level drawdown and increase aquifer storage relative to a scenario without the dam. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_103178.html The Janja Porphyry Copper Deposit, situated in the Zabol–Zahedan–Saravan structural zone of eastern Iran, is obscured by alluvial cover, posing significant exploration challenges. This study investigates the geochemical distribution of elements in surface cover to delineate anomaly patterns associated with concealed mineralization. A total of 153 stream sediment samples and 16,300 drill core samples from 74 boreholes (38 in overburden, 36 in exposed bedrock) were analyzed using ICP-MS and Fire Assay techniques. To mitigate the closure effect in compositional data, Centered Log-Ratio (CLR) transformation was applied, followed by Sequential Factor Analysis (SFA) to identify multi-element associations. The Geochemical Mineralization Prediction Index (GMPI) was utilized to map spatial anomalies accurately. Drilling results reveal elevated concentrations of Ag, As, Cd, Mo, Pb, S, Sb, and Zn in the semi-transitional overburden (enrichment indices up to five times Clarke values), while Cu and Au are enriched in exposed porphyritic diorite zones, with average copper concentrations of 1,211.53 ppm in overburden and 2,561.4 ppm in the hypogene zone. SFA on stream sediment data identified three elemental groups: lithogenic (Al, Fe, Mn), mineralization-related (Cu, Pb, Zn, Ag), and broadly dispersed (Mo, As, S). Anomalous Ag, Mo, Cd, and S concentrations in overburden serve as key indicators for concealed deposits. This study offers an innovative multivariate geochemical approach to optimize exploration in covered terrains within global porphyry belts. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_103568.html Accurate characterization and geometric modeling of rock mass discontinuity networks are fundamental for assessing the strength, mechanical, and hydraulic behavior of jointed rock masses, a critical aspect in geotechnical engineering. This is especially crucial for large infrastructure projects where discontinuities influence structural stability and potential seepage. At the Pirtaghi Dam site, a comprehensive understanding of the main discontinuity network is essential for stability evaluation and seepage path prediction,. This research constructed a 3D stochastic geometric model of the main fracture network using the Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) method. Extensive geological mapping in the dam abutments collected field data on fracture location, orientation, trace length, and density. From this collected data, appropriate probability distribution functions (PDFs) for geometric parameters were determined. A 3D fracture network model was then simulated via the Monte Carlo method and a custom 3DEC code, effectively incorporating these derived PDFs. Goodness-of-fit tests revealed that the main joint sets at the Dam site consistently follow uniform (orientation), exponential-lognormal (spacing), and power (trace length) probability distributions. Quantified 3D density values (P32=1.5 to 2.3 m²/m³) and trace length exponent values (a = 2.3 to 2.5) were also obtained. This developed DFN model, with its quantitative geometric parameters, provides reliable, site-specific input for advanced numerical modeling, such as distinct element method simulations using 3DEC. This validated model significantly enhances the ability to comprehensively analyze and predict the complex hydraulic and mechanical behavior of the discontinuous rock mass at Pirtaghi Dam, offering a critical tool for informed engineering design and risk assessment. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_103569.html This study explores the thermal behavior of four widely used Iranian granites - Khoramdareh,Nehbandan, Natanz, and Taibad - under temperatures ranging from 20°C to 1050°C. The investigationfocused on the evolution of microcracks and their impact on key physical properties such as porosity,water absorption, and P-wave velocity in both dry and saturated conditions. Using fluorescencemicroscopy, linear microcrack density (LMD), microcracks type, and width were analyzed in detail. At300°C, all granite samples showed an increase in inter-crystalline microcracks, leading to elevatedporosity and water absorption. At 600°C, the quartz phase transition at 573°C resulted in volumetricexpansion, causing a temporary decrease in porosity and an increase in P wave velocity. For example,the dry P wave velocities at 600°C were 4.77 km/s for Taibad, 4.71 km/s for Khoramdareh, 3.84 km/sfor Natanz, and 5.12 km/s for Nehbandan. Above 750°C, trans-crystalline microcracks becamedominant, significantly increasing porosity and water absorption while reducing P wave velocity.Nehbandan granite suffered structural failure at 600°C, whereas Natanz exhibited the highest LMD at750°C, indicating severe internal damage. The study highlights the importance of microcracks evolutionand mineralogical transformations, particularly quartz phase transitions, in controlling granite's thermalstability. Three critical thresholds (300°C, 600°C, and 750°C) were identified as turning points in thedeterioration process. Additionally, this research introduces a novel methodological approach,combining fluorescence microscopy with physical testing to achieve detailed characterization of thermaldamage. By extending the temperature range up to 1050°C, the study provides valuable insights intogranite performance in fire-prone and heat-exposed environments. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_103927.html Passive seismic tomography has proven to be a valuable alternative in areas where active seismic methods face significant challenges. In this study, we investigate the application of Full Waveform Inversion (FWI) – a modern, high-resolution tomographic technique – as a potential passive seismic approach for the Dehdasht embayment, Southwest, Iran. Prior to applying FWI to the real dataset from Dehdasht, we test a proposed multi-scale workflow on a synthetic model that closely resembles the study area. Through this workflow, we examine key factors affecting the FWI performance, including source and receiver configurations, presence of noise in data and inaccuracies in source location. Encouragingly, with a receiver spacing comparable to Dehdasht acquisition network and a sufficient number of sources – particularly in Vs model– we are able to reconstruct high-resolution subsurface features such as hydrocarbon trap, high-velocity bedrock and shallow syncline structure. Even with the addition of substantial level of random noise, the results demonstrate that our proposed workflow is robust and capable of producing clear subsurface tomographic image. However, simulationsincorporating erroneous source locations reveal that significant source misplacement can lead to divergence and instability in FWI process. As a result, before applying FWI to the real dataset of Dehdasht, special attention must be given to source relocation or accurate source modeling. At the end, we propose a hierarchical processing workflow to ensure the convergence toward a reliable high-resolution tomographic model of the Dehdasht embayment. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_104255.html Damavand Stratovolcano is the highest volcano (5610m) in Iran and the Middle East. This mountain, located approximately 50 km northeast of Tehran, is currently experiencing fumarole activity. On the Haraz road, the main volcanic rocks are olivine basalt, trachyandesite, and basalt trachyandesite with olivine, clinopyroxene (augite), phlogopite, apatite, iron oxides, amphibole (pargasite), and zircon minerals. The chondrite-normalized and primitive mantle-normalized multi-element spider diagrams reveal enrichment in LILEs and LREEs, along with depletion in HFSEs and HREEs (such as Ti and Nb). These geochemical signatures reflect characteristics of both subduction-related and ocean island basalt (OIB) environments, suggesting a deep mantle source for the lavas. It appears that the local rise of deep-mantle materials beneath the Alborz Mountains led to the eruption of intraplate Damavand lavas. Compressional stress applied to the Iranian plate after the closure of Neotethys was a possible cause of sub-continental lithosphere delamination, which led to mantle uplift. The eruption of intraplate Damavand lavas appears to be linked to the localized upwelling of deep mantle material beneath the Alborz Mountains. This mantle ascent may have been triggered by compressional forces on the Iranian plate following the closure of the Neotethys Ocean, potentially causing delamination of the sub-continental lithosphere. . . https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_104372.html Porphyry deposits are major sources of copper, molybdenum, and gold. Airborne time-domain electromagnetic (TDEM) surveys play a crucial role in identifying conductive sulfide mineralization, particularly in geologically complex environments. This study employs 2.5D inversion of airborne TDEM data to image the Bell polymetallic deposit in British Columbia, Canada, offering improved accuracy over 1D methods in resolving complex geological structures, while maintaining lower computational demands than full 3D modeling. The methodology employs constrained Occam inversion with conjugate gradient optimization implemented in the ArjunGUI software. Forward modeling was conducted using finite-element methods in the wavenumber domain to simulate subsurface conductivity, and the results were subsequently transformed into time-domain using Fourier techniques.The inversion minimizes data misfit and model roughness using Lagrange multipliers and parameter bounds. Geological constraints, such as fixed background resistivities, were incorporated to ensure model accuracy. Inversion of an airborne TDEM survey line across the Bell deposit produced a resistivity model that highlights significant low-resistivity anomalies at approximately 100 m depth. These anomalies are associated with phyllic alteration zones and inferred fault structures that facilitated fluid circulation. High-resistivity areas delineate potassic alteration zones, which align with prior geophysical data and confirm the model's reliability. The 2.5D inversion provided enhanced accuracy compared to 1D methods and greater efficiency than 3D modeling, thereby facilitating targeted exploration in porphyry systems. The main limitations include high noise in late-time channels and potential mesh distortions due to topography. These limitations suggest that improvements in mesh discretization are needed for for future applications. Overall, this technique demonstrates the potential of 2.5D TDEMinversion as a practical and efficient approach for subsurface imaging and resource evaluation in polymetallic deposits. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_104800.html Kohat Basin is a well-known petroliferous basin of Pakistan. Problem statements include limited data availability, understanding complex depositional environments, accurately measuring thermal maturity, and resolving the influence of drilling contaminants on geochemical parameters. The main objectives of the current study were to evaluate the source rock characteristics and geochemical properties of organic matter contained in Eocene shale deposits. These objectives were fulfilled by X-ray diffraction (XRD), total organic carbon content (TOC), Vitrinite Reflectance (RO), and Rock-Eval Pyrolysis analyses of shale samples collected from the Dharangi, Naripanos, and Karak sections of the Kohat Basin. XRD analysis shows that the Eocene shale of the Kohat Basin is rich in clay minerals, such as illite-smectite and kaolinite, with smaller amounts of quartz, plagioclase, and K-feldspar. Gypsum, halite, chlorite, and pyrite were present as minor constituents. The TOC values range from 1.60 wt. % to 2.90 wt. %, indicating a good to very good potential source rock. The Oxygen Index (OI), Hydrogen Index (HI), and T-max parameters from Rock-Eval pyrolysis indicate that the Eocene shale comprises type II and type II/III Kerogen, which can generate oil and gas-oil at appropriate temperatures. Vitrinite Reflectance (Ro) values ranged from 0.42 % to 1.28 %, indicating the immature to mature zone of thermal maturity. Overall, it has been evaluated that the Eocene shale of the Kohat basin has good potential for hydrocarbon generation, which can play a significant role in hydrocarbon prospectivity within the Kohat Basin. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_105188.html The Fe–Ti ± P oxide mineralization hosted by the XV intrusion is located within the Bafq–Saqand metallogenic province in western Central Iran. This mineralization occurs in gabbroic and pyroxenitic rocks and appears in semi-massive, net-textured, and disseminated forms. According to the Ti + Cr + Na versus Al discrimination diagram, the analyzed pyroxenes are of igneous origin. Classification on the Q (Ca + Mg + Fe2+) versus J (2Na) diagram places them within the Ca–Fe–Mg pyroxene group (Quad). The average Mg# [Mg/(Mg + Fe2+) × 100] values are 87.23 wt.% for gabbroic and 84.20 wt.% for pyroxenitic pyroxenes. CaO contents range from 13.30 to 23.00 wt.% in gabbroic samples and from 18.52 to 23.12 wt.% in pyroxenitic rocks. In the Ca + Na(B) (a.p.f.u) versus Na(B) (a.p.f.u) diagram, the studied amphiboles are classified as calcic. Thermobarometric calculations indicate that the gabbros crystallized at temperatures between 904–1230 °C under pressures of 8.0–10.3 kbar, whereas the pyroxenites formed under slightly lower thermal conditions (901–1180 °C) and pressures from 7.0 to 8.9 kbar. Coexisting titanomagnetite–ilmenite mineral pairs record cooling temperatures ranging from 448 °C to 727 °C, mainly within 554–645 °C, with oxygen fugacity (ƒO2) values from –17.28 to –23.96. The relatively high ƒO2 values suggest that the parental magma evolved under oxidizing conditions, likely associated with an extensional tectonic setting during emplacement, cooling, and fractional crystallization. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_103046.html Ariz pluton, covering approximately 65 km2, is located 50 to 65 km north of Bafq city, Yazd province, and is part of the central Iran structural zone. This pluton ranges in composition from diorite-quartzdiorite to granodiorite and is characterized by a calc-alkaline, metaluminous nature. These rocks primarily consist of hornblende, biotite, plagioclase, orthoclase and quartz. In this study, for the first time, the chemical compositions of hornblende, biotite, and feldspars are used to determine the physicochemical conditions controlling crystallization, emplacement depth, and tectonic setting. Thermobarometry based on Al-in hornblende and biotite compositions indicates that crystallization and geochemical closure occurred at pressures between 2.8-1.3 kbar and temperatures of 861-713 °C. Most of the amphiboles from the Ariz pluton are indicative of formation in a suprasubduction environment or subduction-related tectonic setting. New obtained zircon U-Pb ages indicate that the rock-forming of Ariz pluton crystallized around Late Neoproterozoic-early Cambrian boundary, representing the final product of the geological events that mainly occurred during the Late Neoproterozoic (Ediacaran). Magma-forming of Ariz pluton probably originated from partial melting of the subducted Proto-Tethys oceanic crust beneath the northern margin of Gondwana supercontinent or its above mantle wedge, during Cadomian orogeny and was emplaced in an active continental margin. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_103555.html Identifying the inflows and outflows of plains experiencing groundwater level fluctuations is a critical aspect of water resource management, environmental decision-making, and agricultural planning. The groundwater of the Evan Plain is mainly affected by two recharge sources. The Karkheh River, contributing an average of 30%, serves as the main recharge source in the northern and northeastern parts of the plain. Furthermore, The groundwater inflow from the Abbas Plain contributes an average of 32% to the aquifer recharge, predominantly affecting the plain's central, southeastern, and southwestern areas. These findings provide valuable insights for effective aquifer management and future regional water resource planning.  https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_105401.html The Rock Mass Rating (RMR) system is widely used to assess rock mass quality and the its mechanical parameters including cohesion, internal friction angle, and elasticity modulus. The uniaxial compressive strength (UCS)/point load index (PLI) of intact rock is one of the input parameters in RMR. Rocks in some geotechnical works, such as rock slopes, tunnels, and some foundations are under tensional stresses. In these conditions, the tensile strength of the rocks may be a suitable strength parameter in RMR system to assess mechanical behavior of the rock mass in site a geotechnical work. One of the weaknesses of RMR is that it does not take into account the tensile strength of intact rock. In this paper, a new rock classification is introduced based on Brazilian tensile strength (BTS) as an alternative for point load index (PLI) in RMR. To achieve this purpose, BTS and UCS values for diverse rock types including igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic were collected through a comprehensive review of existing literature. For each rock type, the correlation equations between BTS and UCS were developed using simple regression analysis. Using data analyses, the intact rock was categorized into seven BTS classes. The BTS classification suggested in the present study can be used as a novel approach in RMR for a rock mass outcropped at the site of a geotechnical project. This can lead to a more comprehensive assessment of the mechanical behavior of the rock mass, and therefore, a more accurate design of a geotechnical project. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_105491.html In this study Fischer assay, thermal dissolution, and hydrogenation methods were used to comparatively evaluate oil yield of the Middle Jurassic Sargelu oil shale. Three oil shale samples in three localities from Sargelu oil shale in from Zagros Mountains in southwest Iran were selected. According to the results of oil yield of the samples, the final temperature and residence time from the modified Fischer assay were not significantly different from those of the standard Fischer assay. Accordingly, the highest oil yield based on the standard and modified Fischer assays were 34.29 and 33.7 wt.% from organic matter, respectively. Nevertheless, the modified Fischer assay could increase the API gravity from 18.30 to 24.82 while reducing the viscosity from 7.34 to 4.13 cP. Thermal dissolution in the presence of different solvents give the highest oil yield in the presence of methanol at 350°C in 4 hours. Oil yield varied significantly with different solvents (23.1 to 59.4wt). Direct hydrogenation was performed in the presence of hydrogen at two levels of pressure (20 and 30 bar) and a low temperature, resulting in an oil yield of up to 53.68 wt.% from OM. Indirect hydrogenation in the presence of an aqueous solution of 25% sodium formate (HCOONa) at 380°C in 5 hours produced an oil yield of 51.59 wt.% from OM. Indirect hydrogenation method in the presence of water and zinc solution improved the oil yield to 62.93 wt.%. Maximum oil yield of the oil shale achieved by indirect hydrogenation at 400°C in 2 hours. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_105596.html Laboratory testing of unsaturated soil shear strength parameters is often time-consuming, expensive, and requires specialized equipment. This study explores Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) as an alternative, systematically optimizing the predictive model through a novel, multi-stage analysis investigating activation functions and iteratively tuning hidden layer counts and neuron numbers. A comprehensive evaluation of 195 network configurations was conducted using a dataset of 490 points compiled from 14 soil types, primarily fine-grained soils. Modeling identified the Bayesian regularization (TRAIN BR) function as superior (R=0.97R=0.97R=0.97). Subsequent expansion to three, four, and five hidden layers (with neuron counts from 50 down to 10) determined the most effective architecture. The four-layer Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) network emerged as the optimal configuration, achieving exceptional performance with an overall R2R^2R2 value of 0.98. Model validation utilized rigorous approaches. Initially, reserved samples confirmed the four-layer network’s high accuracy for cohesion. Secondly, predictions were compared with established empirical methods, demonstrating significantly higher accuracy. Finally, five independently prepared samples tested via in-house Direct Shear Testing further validated the model’s reliability. This external validation confirmed close agreement, showing prediction errors ranging from 1% to 11% for friction angle and 3% to 14% for cohesion. While further validation using a wider diversity of soil types and a larger external sample size is required to confirm generalizability, these results firmly establish ANNs as a powerful, accurate, and cost-effective tool for geotechnical engineers providing reliable estimates of unsaturated soil shear strength parameters. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_105633.html Accurate prediction of rock drillability is critical for optimizing tunneling, mining, and excavation operations in hard rock environments. This study investigates the drillability of granitic rocks by integrating petrographic, physical, mechanical, and abrasivity parameters with both conventional regression and machine learning (ML) approaches. Laboratory tests were conducted on samples from six granitic rock groups, measuring properties such as brittleness, hardness, abrasivity indices, and the Drilling Rate Index (DRI). Statistical analyses, including linear and nonlinear regression, revealedstrong nonlinear relationships between DRI and engineering parameters, with R² values up to 0.95. Machine learning models, particularly Random Forest (RF) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), were applied independently, with RF achieving superior predictive performance (R² > 0.99) and lower error indices compared to ANN and regression models. The study also highlights the influence of different rock groups on model performance and discusses limitations related to dataset scale, in situ conditions, and model generalization. These results confirm that integrating laboratory measurements with ML techniques provides a reliable framework for predicting rock drillability, offering practicalguidance for excavation planning, equipment selection, and operational efficiency. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_106119.html The increasing population and growing water demands have drawn global research attention to alternative water sources such as hard rocks aquifers. They play a crucial role in arid regions, where water resources are scarce. This study focuses on the volcanic belt of Torud–Chahshirin, situated in the south of Shahrood (northeast Iran), to assess the geochemistry of water resources. This volcanic belt holds significant importance as it serves as the only water source for surrounding villages. Sampling was conducted during two wet (February 2017) and dry (July 2018) seasons from 34 springs and qanats and physico-chemical parameters (electrical conductivity, pH, temperature, major ions and heavy metals) and stable isotopes (18O and 2H) were measured. Spatial analysis revealed increasing electrical conductivity and temperature with reduction of pH along the flow path, primarily due to the dissolution of evaporate minerals (fracture filling halite and gypsum) and weathering of the silicates that enhanced the concentration of SiO2 with reduction in altitude along the flow pathways. Temporal changes in major ions indicated higher levels of ions in February as compared to July due to progress in dissolution and weathering processes. Halite and gypsum dissolution and weathering of silicate minerals were determined as the main mechanisms controlling the geochemistry of the groundwater in this area. The concentration of heavy metals followed the order of Rh < Sb < Se < Mo < Sc < Ba < Li < Sr. They mainly sourced from geogenic origins, emerging in concentrations below WHO drinking standard except for Sr. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_106758.html The phosphorite deposits of the Upper Devonian Jeirud Formation in the Central Alborz, Iran, represent a significant resource within the extensive Tethyan phosphate belt, interpreted as having precipitated in a shallow marine setting influenced by upwelling and anoxic bottom waters. This investigation utilizes high-resolution micro-X-ray fluorescence (µ-XRF) spectrometry to conduct a detailed, spatially resolved analysis of elemental distributions, paragenetic mineralogy, and multi-stage diagenetic pathways within these sedimentary rocks. Comprehensive elemental mapping definitively identifies fluorapatite as the predominant phosphate mineral, manifesting in two principal modes: (i) reworked, rounded to sub-rounded peloids and intraclasts, and (ii) microcrystalline cement. The µ-XRF data provide unequivocal evidence for a key diagenetic overprint involving the partial to complete oxidative replacement of primary phosphate phases by iron (oxyhydr)oxides. Concurrently, the technique facilitates the precise identification of accessory mineralogy, including euhedral pyrite (confirmed via strong Fe–S spatial correlation) and Ti-bearing phases such as rutile or titanite. Quantitative spot analyses reveal significant enrichment of rare earth elements (REEs) within the fluorapatite lattice. Critically, a robust linear correlation between quantitative µ-XRF-derived concentrations and conventional bulk ICP-OES data from paired samples validates the µ-XRF methodology as a highly accurate, reliable, and non-destructive alternative for quantitative geochemical characterization of phosphorites. The study establishes µ-XRF as a powerful tool for deciphering complex paragenetic sequences, elucidating primary sedimentary versus diagenetic textures, and reconstructing post-depositional alteration histories, thereby offering significant utility for both academic research and mineral resource evaluation of phosphate deposits. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_106839.html The Zendan–Minab Fault System (ZMFS) forms a major right-lateral shear zone at the transition between the Zagros collision belt and the Makran subduction system. Although its onshore kinematics are relatively well constrained, the geometry and structural role of its offshore continuation in the western Makran remain insufficiently understood. This study investigates the offshore expression of the ZMFS using a regional 4 × 4 km grid of 2D seismic reflection profiles acquired by the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) and six depth-migrated seismic sections.Edge-detection techniques were employed to overcome uncertainties arising from the absence of 3D seismic coverage, limited well control, and lower resolution of deeper seismic sections.Most faults in the offshore ZMFS appear geometrically parallel and discontinuous, consistent with soft-linked behavior, and no continuous through-going flower structures can be confidently resolved given the 4 km line spacing; thus, the observed segmentation may partly reflect spatial resolution limitations. GPS-derived rates (~16 mm yr⁻¹) indicate significant offshore strain accumulation along the Zagros–Makran transfer zone, including the ZMFS segment, suggesting that moderate to large earthquakes could occur at intersections of strike-slip and thrust faults, with potential tsunamigenic implications. These observations support interpretation of the offshore ZMFS as a broad transpressional transfer zone accommodating oblique Arabia–Eurasia convergence. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_107198.html The Marvast alluvial aquifer in Yazd Province (central Iran) has experienced increasing groundwater abstraction for agricultural and industrial purposes, causing continuous decline in groundwater levels, disruption of aquifer balance, and serious threat to its long-term sustainability. In this study, the aquifer was simulated under steady-state and transient conditions over a nine-year hydrological period from November 2012 to September 2021. The calibration and validation results with R²=0.92 and RMSE=1.06 m, confirmed the accuracy and reliability of the model. The average hydraulic conductivity and specific yield were estimated at 10 m/day and 5%, respectively, indicating the heterogeneity of the alluvial sediments, resulted in a non-uniform aquifer response to groundwater abstractions. The highest groundwater-level decline, with an average annual rate of about 0.7 m, occurred in the northern areas where pumping wells are highly concentrated. Groundwater level predictions with continuation of current conditions up to September 2030 (scenario I) indicated that groundwater depletion will be continued in the northern parts of the aquifer, with a cumulative decline of 6.5–7 m. Given the proximity of the northeastern aquifer boundary to the Marvast Desert, this trend may increase the risk of saline water intrusion and groundwater quality deterioration. As compared with scenario I, groundwater level is projected to rise averagely about 0.62 m under 10% reductions in groundwater abstraction (scenario II) with the most pronounced improvement at the north. Therefore, sustainable groundwater management measures including abstraction control and artificial recharge are essential in this critical aquifer. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_107273.html This research employs a combined geophysical approach, utilizing electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and induced polarization (IP) imaging, to characterize the subsurface architecture and identify copper-bearing zones at the Takhte-Gonbad porphyry copper deposit within the Kerman metallogenic belt, Iran. The acquired field data were inverted using two distinct methodologies: conventional Tikhonov regularization and sparsity-based regularization. The resulting inverse models successfully delineated two principal E-W trending mineralized zones, which are distinguished by coherent low-resistivity and high-chargeability anomalies diagnostic of disseminated sulfide mineralization. These geophysical signatures exhibit a strong spatial correlation with surface-mapped zones of phyllic and argillic alteration and are further validated by borehole assay data confirming local copper grades exceeding 1%. A comparative assessment of the inversion results indicates that sparsity-based regularization produces subsurface models with sharper lithological boundaries and improved delineation of compact, high-contrast ore bodies, making it particularly effective for resolving localized features at the deposit scale. In contrast, Tikhonov regularization yields smoother models that are better suited for representing broader, regional-scale geological structures. Overall, both inversion approaches are capable of resolving the main subsurface features; however, they emphasize different aspects of the subsurface due to their inherent regularization properties. Accordingly, the choice between them should be guided by the geological objectives rather than interpreted as a general superiority of one method over the other. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_107330.html Upper Triassic and Middle Jurassic deposits in the central and central east of Iran contain diverse and well-preserved plant macrofossils. The data were collected from 23 localities; four investigated in the present study, 19 in other localities in the Tabas Block, five in the Kerman Basin, and one in Shahreza. Analysis of the composition of plant communities in the Ghadir Member of the Nayband Formation (Upper Triassic) and the Hojedk Formation (Middle Jurassic) indicates significant changes in their floral composition. Based on fossil evidence and statistical analyses, it is evident that genera Clathropteris Brongniart and Thaumatopteris Goeppert (Family Dipteridaceae of Filicales) disappeared in the Middle Jurassic deposits, while Klukia Raciborski and Coniopteris Brongniart of families Schizaeaceae and Dicksoniaceae appeared and became widespread. In addition, the diversity and abundance of the representatives of the Order Bennettitales decreased significantly, such that Zamites Brongniart and Nilssoniopteris Nathorst were absent by the end of the Middle Jurassic. The Cycadales flourished by genus Nilssonia Brongniart and expanded with numerous species in these areas. Among the seed ferns, the Peltaspermales with the genus Scytophyllum Bornemann disappeared in the Middle Jurassic, and instead, the Caytoniales and Corystospermales with the genera of Sagenopteris Presl and Pachypteris appeared. Moreover, in the Middle Jurassic, small-leaved conifers such as Elatides Heer emend. Harris and Cyparissidium Heer became abundant and spread in the central and central eastern Iran. https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_107331.html Accurate mineral mapping in structurally complex terrains is essential for effective resource exploration. This study investigates the application of ASTER satellite imagery integrated with spectral processing techniques and supervised machine learning algorithms to identify key industrial minerals in the Semirom kaolin deposit, located in the Zagros fold-and-thrust belt, Iran. Methods applied include Band Ratio (BR), Relative Band Depth (RBD), spectral indices, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Directed PCA (DPCA), Band Ratio Color Composite (BRCC), Random Forest (RF), and Support Vector Machine (SVM). Field surveys and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses were used for ground validation.Kaolinite-rich horizons were reliably delineated using the Kaolinite Index (KLI), PCA, DPCA, and both machine learning classifiers, with SVM achieving an overall accuracy of 77.2% (Kappa = 0.67) and outperforming RF (69.1%, Kappa = 0.55). Calcite was best detected using DPCA applied to SWIR bands in combination with the Calcite Index (CLI), while hematite was only partially discriminated in mixed-pixel zones through BR and SVM classification. Major limitations included spectral overlaps between minerals, erosional cover, and mixed-pixel effects caused by heterogeneous surface conditions.The results highlight the potential of integrating ASTER data with advanced image processing and machine learning as a cost-effective and reliable framework for preliminary exploration of clay-rich deposits. Furthermore, kaolinitic horizons at the Ilam–Sarvak boundary coincide with known bauxite occurrences, https://geopersia.ut.ac.ir/article_107348.html This study evaluates HM pollution and human health risk assessment in urban street dust from Sarvestan city, located southeast of Shiraz in southern Iran. Street dust samples from ten stations were analyzed for HM concentrations using ICP-OES. The mean concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn) were 3.46, 0.37, 43.4, 74.5, 92.3, 48.7, and 191.5 ppm, respectively. The geo-accumulation index (Igeo) and enrichment factor (EF) indicated a moderate level of pollution for Cd and a high level of enrichment for Cd, Pb, and As. The potential ecological risk factor (Er) showed the following decreasing order: Cd > As > Pb > Cu > Zn > Ni > Cr in Sarvestan street dust. The non-carcinogenic risk/hazard index (HI) for children was within the acceptable range and higher than that for adults. Children are particularly vulnerable to heavy metal exposure due to their lower body weight, higher inhalation and ingestion rates per unit body weight, hand-to-mouth behavior, and developing organ systems. Therefore, assessing health risks specifically for children is not only crucial but also a priority in public health studies. This study, being the first of its kind in Sarvestan, aims to fill this critical knowledge gap by providing a quantitative health risk assessment for both children and adults, which is essential for formulating targeted public health policies and remediation strategies in this industrially developing region.