Abstract:
Accurately exploring and developing prospective mineral deposits is crucial for efficient resource exploitation. In this study, we employed systematic geophysical approaches, namely the very low frequency electromagnetic (VLF-EM) and vertical electrical sounding (VES) methods, to investigate the subsurface characteristics in the Tsohon Gurusu Area of Minna, North-Central Nigeria. The primary objective was to identify economically viable zones with conductive minerals and associated metallic deposits, potentially serving as suitable hosts for mineralization.
Covering an area extent of 250,000 m², six geophysical profiles were examined, each spanning 500 meters, with an inter-profile spacing of 100 meters and inter-station distance of 20 meters. VLF-EM data were collected using the Scintrex Envi VLF instrument. The acquired datasets were analyzed and interpreted using MICROSOFT EXCEL, KHFFILT, and OASIS MONTAJ software. Subsequently, twelve points with significant high and low conductivity were mapped and probed further using the Schlumberger array method, with the assistance of the ABEM Tarrameter SAS 4000 instrument. The gathered data was then analyzed with WinResist software.
The study revealed a notable structural trend in the NE-SW direction, indicating the presence of inferred fracturing units containing conductive minerals. These findings were supported by peak responses in current distributions and the surface and subsurface geological features observed in the investigated profiles. Notably, all six profiles exhibited areas of high conductivity, which corresponded to fracture zones of particular interest, as demonstrated in the current density sections. Profile 5 exhibited the highest conductivity response of 135.5 mS/m, while profile 6 showed the least conductivity response of -136.7 mS/m.
The VES results indicated a general H-type curve for VES points 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 10, and 12, suggesting the presence of basement rock of granitic nature. VES 08 and 09, however, showed an A-type curve, indicative of non-conductive basement rock. VES 11 presented an HK-type curve with five major layers, possibly containing both conductive and non-conductive minerals.
Based on the obtained results, it is evident that mineralization is likely to occur within near-surface fracture zones, at an estimated depth of 9 meters. The integration of VLF-EM and VES methods has proven effective in identifying potential mineralized areas in the study region, providing valuable insights for future exploration activities.
AN EXTENSIVE EXAMINATION OF GROUND ELECTROMAGNETIC AND ELECTRICAL RESISTIVITY PROSPECTING. GET MORE, ACTUARIAL SCIENCE PROJECT TOPICS AND MATERIALS
