Abstract:
An integrated geophysical approach (using induced polarization together with
resistivity) geophysical techniques was applied in the research area (Phitshane Molopo
area, Botswana) in search for potential gold mineralization from the interpreted data to
delineate potential sites for mineralization. Reports on historic exploration suggest that
gold mineralization is associated with quartz ± carbonate veins that cut across the
banded iron formations. The 2D IP/ERI measurements were acquired along ten 300 m
long profiles trending northeast southwest, with 15 m line separation and 7.5 m
electrode spacing. The data were then inverted using the standard Gauss-Newton
optimization method to produce 2D and 3D models. Based on a combination of IP and
resistivity results, two anomalous zones are observed increasing in strength from line
1 to line 10. Possible mineralization is observed to be at shallow depths as evident
from the 2D models and 3D horizontal sections. Since all of the high chargeability
zones shown on the chargeability models correspond to parts which are highly
resistive, then these zones exhibiting distinct anomalies can be mapped out as
possible areas of disseminated sulphide mineralization hosted within quartz veins
cross-cutting banded iron formations. The integrated use of IP and ERI methods was
successful in delineating zones that are likely to be hosting disseminated sulphides
and/or potentially gold-rich zones in the Phitshane Molopo area, Kraaipan Greenstone
Belt.
