Stages of Geological Exploration
My team and I offer both traditional and innovative methodologies and a structured sequence of mineral exploration activities, taking into account the results obtained from benchmarked, successfully implemented projects.
To identify and study commercial mineral deposits in a new geological territory, mandatory exploration phases are established to optimize the investment budget.
PRELIMINARY STUDIES
Collection, systematization, synthesis, and analysis of retrospective geological, geophysical, geographical, and topographic data, as well as remote sensing data interpretation, including:
Collection and analysis of topographic maps of the study area;
Development of spatial databases, including cartographic and primary digital data for the study area;
Geographic differentiation of prospective sites, prioritization of their study, and selection of exploration methods or a combination thereof.
PUBLISHING GIS-BASED TOPOGRAPHIC DATASETS AS FUNDAMENTAL DATA FOR FURTHER WORK
We also conduct geodetic surveys with industrial-grade GPS accuracy.
REMOTE SENSING DATA ANALYSIS using ERDAS Imagine tools and preliminary interpretation of satellite imagery in infrared and thermal spectra. Identification of accessible geological structures, faults, fracturing, and folding.
For example, Landsat 8 satellite imagery enables the identification of geological structures prospective for kimberlite bodies. Geological features are most visible in the ratio of bands 2/4, 5, and 11.
THERMAL TECHNOLOGY FOR 3D GEOTOMOGRAPHY (TTG)
We have developed and successfully used proprietary algorithms for 3D geotomography (TTG) for over a decade. This technology has proven to be an effective tool for studying geological structures and detecting thermodynamic anomalies, which serve as thermal projections of various mineral deposits (ore deposits, industrial minerals, hydrocarbons, and water) of different geological origins. TTG technology enables the identification of feeder channels of any deposits at any depth range.
TTG Technology Based on Remote Sensing Data for Hydrocarbon Prediction
The 3D thermal cube is used as a foundation for hydrocarbon trap forecasting. The trap must include a reservoir rock for hydrocarbon accumulation, as well as impermeable layers (or their combination) that prevent or halt hydrocarbon migration. The TTG method enables the identification of both components with a high degree of confidence.
TTG Technology for Solid Mineral Prediction (1)
A set of virtual borehole intersections with a well-logging suite along the borehole axis enables the identification of natural petrophysical heterogeneities in the section.
TTG Technology for Solid Mineral Prediction (2)
A 3D geological model constructed using TTG-based virtual boreholes allows for a preliminary assessment of the geometry of prospective targets, as demonstrated by the kimberlite structure in Central Brazil.
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PRELIMINARY MODELING OF GEOMORPHOLOGICAL AND NEOTECTONIC CONDITIONS
Using ArcGIS & TNT MIPS tools, we enable expert teams to identify:
- Boundaries of elementary watersheds and streams of various orders;
- Paleochannel positions, modern river channels, and associated terraces;
- Spatial and temporal relationships between these structures.
Input data for geomorphological and neotectonic analysis:
- Topographic base maps;
- Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM v4) datasets;
- Multispectral medium-resolution Landsat ETM+ imagery.
The following derivative models are created during the analysis:
- Primary digital elevation model (DEM) from SRTM v4 data;
- Transformation of the primary DEM into a hydrologically corrected DEM;
- Watershed models based on the hydrologically corrected DEM;
- Lineaments, preliminarily corresponding to active crustal faults, identified through remote sensing data interpretation;
- Indicator points for sampling to determine promising areas for placer and primary deposits;
- Priority targets for primary deposit and ore occurrence localization.
Spatially modeled geomorphological conditions of the license area in ArcGIS
Slope gradients of the current topography within the license area modeled in ArcGIS
Prospective model of the license area based on SRTM, modeled in ArcGIS
Fumaya Structure Model based on SRTM and its interpretation
Geodynamic model of the license area and lineaments based on SRTM, spatially modeled in ArcGIS
Predictive model + geomorphological and neotectonic conditions spatially modeled in ArcGIS
Watershed modeling
Comprehensive analysis of multispectral and radar remote sensing data
Slope gradients of the current topography within the license area modeled in ArcGIS
FIELDWORK
Field geophysical surveys
The primary objective of geophysical survey methods is to provide a rapid assessment over large areas, enabling the localization and mapping of prospective geological structures within crystalline rocks, basal horizons of alluvial deposits of various ages, hydrogeological and geomorphological features, tectonic faults, and sedimentary formations. This supports the overall planning of mineral exploration activities within the licensed area.
Field geological surveys include:
- Profile ground-penetrating radar (GPR) surveys;
- Large-scale ground magnetic surveys at a scale of 1:10,000 or larger;
- Large-scale gravimetric surveys at a scale of 1:10,000 or larger.
Additional geophysical methods may be applied when necessary.
Currently, for Russian diamond exploration companies, the MPEP ground-penetrating radar (GPR) profiling technology is widely utilized for the exploration and development of new kimberlite structures.
The structural advantages of the MPEP geophysical system allow for surveys to be conducted not only in areas with complex terrain but also in regions with dense vegetation (forests, taiga), where other exploration methods are either challenging or unfeasible.
The mobility and efficiency of the MPEP georadar geophysical system enable surveys to be completed within a short timeframe, significantly reducing both time and financial costs associated with exploration.
The anomalies identified through geophysical surveys correspond to vertical geological structures—kimberlite bodies.
Kimberlite bodies exhibit significant deviations in the electrophysical properties of the host rocks.
The MPEP transient electromagnetic sounding method enables the exploration and detection of kimberlite bodies at depths of up to 300 meters.
Comparison of a typical kimberlite pipe—Amakinskaya (Russian Federation) (a) and a predicted kimberlite pipe in Sierra Leone (b)
Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) Profiling for Identifying Productive Placer Structures
The Base of the Prospective Placer Deposit Identified from Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) Data
Thickness of the Productive Placer Deposit Identified from Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) Data
Magnetometric Survey and Geological Interpretation Results Spatially Modeled in ArcGIS
Position of the Kimberlite Pipe in the Magnetic Field Spatially Modeled in ArcGIS
Geological exploration methods include:
• Field collection of samples from identified rock types for the certification of geological structures within the licensed area;
• Visual mineralogical and petrographic analysis (polarizing microscopy, electron-luminescent analysis) with determination of rock texture, form, rock-forming habitus, secondary and accessory minerals in samples, to establish the sequence of ore-forming differentiation processes and crystallization conditions of mineral deposits;
• Description of quantitative characteristics, location, and size of ore zones, with specifications for each type of encountered rock;
• Geochemical sampling;
• Heavy mineral sampling along river valleys and terraces, at confluence points of subordinate order streams;
• Drilling of surface geological workings to expose and investigate rocks (pits, trenches, excavations, outcrops).
Field geological surveys include the collection of primary data for subsequent analysis using GIS tools
DRILLING
Drilling operations are necessary to verify the results of previous studies in order to identify potential ore-bearing bodies and obtain an accurate understanding of the research, specifically data on the composition, age, and physical properties of rocks and associated mineral deposits, as well as the content of valuable components.
Exploration drilling is conducted for the assessment of resources and reserves. The depth of exploration drilling is determined by the thickness and depth of expected ore zones and prospective structures.
The number of exploration wells depends on the prior information from geochemical analysis, geological mapping, and the results of geophysical surveys.
Exploration Drilling
Rock Core Samples: Migmatite, Kimberlite
Geological Interpretation of Drilling Results
Interpretation of Anomaly Based on Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) Profiling Data
Spatial and 3D Modeling
Position of the kimberlite structure based on remote sensing data
Laboratory and analytical studies
One of the rock types of the kimberlite family in thin section
REPORT
The report includes a geological-economic assessment of the feasibility of further exploration or extraction at specific areas, with the identification of geological-industrial types of mineralization. This enables the evaluation of the probable scale of mineral resources and reserves, ore body morphology, grade conditions, and the feasibility of further actions.
The reporting is certified by the signature of a competent person in accordance with the main reporting codes: CRIRSCO (JORC, NI43-101, …), SPE-PRMS, SEC… The signature of the competent person serves as a bank guarantee.