2D electrical resistivity imaging of tantalite- bearing veins in Kaiama, Nigeria
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Date
2022
Authors
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Publisher
Taylor and Francis
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.
Description
Keywords
Tantalite-bearing veins, Electrical resistivity mapping, Mineral exploration, Electrical resistivity tomography, Basement complex of Nigeria
Citation
Raji, W. O. and Bale, R. B. (2022). 2D electrical resistivity imaging of tantalite- bearing veins in Kaiama, Nigeria, NRIAG Journal of Astrology and Geophysics, 11(1) 306 – 312