Gold Mineralization Channels Identification in the Tindikala-Boutou Area (Eastern-Cameroon) Using Geoelectrical (DC & IP) Methods: A Case Study

Daniel Hervé Gouet, Theophile Ndougsa-Mbarga, Arsène Meying, Stéphane P. Assembe, Alphonse D. Man-Mvele Pepogo

Department of Applied Geophysics, Geology and Mining Exploitation College, University of Ngaoundéré, Ngaoundéré, Cameroun.
Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon.
Department of Physics, Advanced Teacher’s Training College, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroun.
Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroun.

DOI: 10.4236/ijg.2013.43059                

Abstract

To achieve the current study, geoelectrical surveys along six (06) profiles of 4 km long in a 100 m × 200 m grid defined according to the triangulation principle in the Ngoura area (Tindikala-Boutou villages) have been made through electrical sounding and profiling following Schlumberger array. The instrument is the resistivimeter Syscal Junior 48 (IRIS Instrument) which uses the electrical current. The data have been processed and modelled with Res2Dinv and Winsev softwares then interpolated with Surfer software. Electrical methods used are the Direct current (DC) and the Induced Polarization (IP). Interpretation and analyses of results from each investigation method highlight weak zones or conductive discontinuities and mineralized zones. Conductive zones have been identified as shear zones within granitic structures of the Precambrian basement, according to the geologic and tectonic background of the area. The structural trend of these shear zones is E-W. The mineralization within it is N-S and characterized by high values of chargeability, essentially in the eastern part of the area under study. This mineralization proves the presence of metalliferous or sulphide heaps disseminated in weathered quartz veins which cross shear zones. Also, the poor mineralization and conductive structures in shear zones characterize the groundwater zones. The intense activities of gold washers encountered in the area enable to link that mineralization to gold within quartz veins. The near surface gold mineralization is eluvial or alluvial, and in depth this mineralization is primary.

Keywords

Geoelectrical Surveys; Direct Current; IP Method; Resistivity; Chargeability; Shear Zones; Gold Mineralization

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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