Geophysical characteristics of nickel and copper deposits in Wadi Al Khadra prospect, southwestern of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

“Three geophysical datasets (self-potential, magnetics, and time - domain electromagnetics) were acquired at Wadi Al Khadra Ni-Cu prospect in southwest Saudi Arabia, and were processed and interpreted for the Saudi Geological Survey. The primary objectives were to map the distribution of metallic mineralization, map structures, verify the integration of the geophysical interpretations and its signatures in conjunction with boreholes information, distinguish the similarities and differences in the integrated interpretation of geophysical data, and design optimal processing and interpretation data parameters. The self-potential tool was used to map the variation in natural surface potential differences to map lateral variations in the distribution of shallow metallic minerals, specifically copper and nickel, qualitatively. The time-domain electromagnetic tool was utilized to measure the lateral and vertical variations in the conductivity of the subsurface to map the distribution of metallic mineralization to depths approximately 140 meters and structures (faults) that control the distribution of mineralization qualitatively. A magnetic tool was used to map lateral variations in the magnetic field of the earth to map the distribution of magnetically susceptible mineralization (magnetite and nickel) and structures (faults) that control the distribution of mineralization and to map structures qualitatively. Surface-based geologic data and core hole control were used to constrain the interpretation of the geophysical data. The investigation was successful. The interpreted geophysical data sets are consistent with one another (re: distribution of metallic mineralization) and consistent with surface-based geologic control and core hole data”--Abstract, page iii

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