Semi-hierarchical correspondence cluster analysis and regional geochemical pattern recognition

Semi-hierarchical correspondence cluster analysis (SHCCA), firstly developed in this paper, extracts the main advantages of correspondence analysis, hierarchical and non-hierarchical cluster analysis, and unifies the R- and Q-mode cluster analysis of large data set. A systemic program to recognize the regional geochemical patterns is built up based on this method. With this program, the complex tasks for data interpretation can be achieved by simple processes, and important geochemical information can be displayed by a single diagram, i.e. the multivariate regional geochemical image. As one of the applied examples of this program, the regional geochemical pattern recognition for a shallow covered area around Tahe in Heilongjiang Province is introduced. The results show that many hidden geochemical patterns related to the lithologies, structures, ore-forming conditions and prospecting targets etc are revealed by the geochemical image, and that the main geochemical patterns are related with certain geological and gravitational patterns. By finding contrasts between geochemical patterns and geological or gravitational patterns, the SHCCA results assist the geological mapping in this area. Geochemical data obtained in Chinese regional geochemical exploration provides useful information regarding geology and minerals, and the method described in this paper provides a new way to examine this type of resource.