Integrated Geophysical Exploration for Iron Ore Deposit in Omo Beyem, Jimma Zone, South West Ethiopia

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2017-06

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Abstract

An integrated geophysical exploration using Magnetic, Induced Polarization (IP) and Gamm-Ray Spectrometry methods were conducted for iron ore exploration in Meti Segeda locality, Omo Beyem woreda, Jimma zone Southwest Ethiopia. Geologically, the area is situated by volcanic rocks represented by basalts, rhyolite and trachyte flows. The NW-SE striking iron bearing zone is occurred between the rhyolite and basalt. The objective of the study was to map anomalous zones for possible iron ore mineralization with its extents and dip. This objective was achieved through different steps and processes including, collection and reviewing of all relevant secondary data and reports which followed by field primary data collection. In doing so Magnetic, Induced Polarization, Gamm-Ray Spectrometry, and Resistivity surveys were applied for data acquisition. Rock samples were also collected for thin section description, major oxide analysis and susceptibility measurements. Remote sensing methods of ASETR imagery data was used for iron alteration mapping of surrounding area. The processed, interpreted and integrated geophysical data revealed the mineralized zone as a zone of intersection of high chargeability, high resistivity, intermediate magnetic susceptibility and high Thorium to Potassium ratio. This intersection zone has NW-SE strike direction and represents the mineralized zone. The same zone is correlates with the IP/R inverted section which is easterly dipping with depth of more than 30m and length of 190m. Mineralization seems to have an association with NE-SW and NW-SE structures within survey area. Based on lateral and vertical extents of the mineralized zone the prospect may be used for small scale investment. Based on northern opened Induced Polarization/Resistivity anomalies and processed satellite imagery data, the extensional surveys are recommended to the northwest and northern part of the grid. Keywords: Iron; deposit; Mineralization; Association; Structure; Susceptibility; Magnetic Anomaly; Chargeability;

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Iron, Deposit, Mineralization, Association, Structure, Susceptibility, Magnetic Anomaly, Chargeability

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