Application of Fuzzy Integrated Methods, Analytical Hierarchy Process and Fuzzy Inference System for exploration of the Khanik-Ghazan Titanium Deposit

The Khanik-Ghazan Titanium ore deposit is located at 82 km northwest of Urmia, northern Sanandaj-Sirjan zone. The main objective of this research is to identify potentially mineralized areas and to prepare a mineral prospectivity map in the Khanik-Ghazan deposit applying the Fuzzy Inference System (FIS). After preparing the facto maps, the main stages of the investigation comprise the preparation of fuzzy factor maps using the appropriate linguistic variables and proper membership functions, combining factor maps using the fuzzy inference (by creating a fuzzy database of If-OR rules), identification of susceptible areas, and the generation of a potential mineral map using the output closure. In this study, in order to control the accuracy of the data, we tried to apply two new integrated methods including the fuzzy logic and hierarchical analysis processes. The results obtained from these methods was confirmed and complemented by each other and demonstrated highly potential mineralized zones. This statement is validated by several investigation methods including the field surveys and evidence of 80 samples collected from rock outcrops. Based on obtained results and modelling of geophysical data, the central part of the study area was recognized for further exploration using the drillcore subsurface exploration.