2D electrical resistivity imaging of tantalite-bearing veins in Kaiama, Nigeria. Issue 1 (31st December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Raji, Wasiu Olanrewaju; Bale, Rafiu Babatunde
• Is Part Of: NRIAG journal of astronomy and geophysics. Volume 11:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 306
• Page End: 312
• Publication Date: 2022-12-31
• Subjects: Tantalite-bearing veins -- electrical resistivity imaging -- mineral exploration -- basement complex of Nigeria -- resistivity tomography; Astronomy -- Periodicals; Geophysics -- Periodicals; Astronomy; Geophysics; Electronic journals; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 520.5
• DOI: 10.1080/20909977.2022.2106666
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-9977

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The utility of the electrical resistivity (ER) method of geophysics for delineating tantalite-rich zones is demonstrated. To avoid negative environmental consequences, the local authority refused the use of trial-and-error method by the artisanal and small-scale miners. 2D ER method was applied to delineate the locations and dimensions of the tantalite-rich zones. Data were acquired along nine profiles in the study area at predetermined locations, after reconnaissance field mapping, using SuperSting R8/IP Earth Resistivity Metre, 84 electrodes, and the full accessories. Each profile was 249 m long with 84 electrodes coupled to the ground at 3 m intervals on a straight line following the dipole–dipole electrode array. Data acquired were processed to obtain tomographic images of the subsurface. The results revealed low resistivity anomalies (1–60 Ωm) corresponding to tantalite-rich quartz veins that intruded into the high-resistive migmatite-gneisses-schist complex. The tantalite-rich zones were located at depths ranging from near-surface to about 45 m, their lengths and thicknesses range from 40 to 220 m and 3 to 32 m, respectively. A pit dug along profile six confirmed the low resistivity structures to be tantalite-rich quartz veins. Findings from the study are useful for economic evaluation of similar deposits, determining the extent of excavation required for mining, and planning land reclamation.