TITLE:
Evidence of Iron Mineralization Channels in the Messondo Area (Centre-Cameroon) Using Geoelectrical (DC & IP) Methods: A Case Study
AUTHORS:
Ngoumou Paul Claude, Ndougsa-Mbarga Théophile, Assembe Stéphane Patrick, Kofane Timoleon Crepin
KEYWORDS:
Direct Current; IP Method; Geoelectrical Surveys; Resistivity; Chargeability; Shear Zones; Iron Mineralization
JOURNAL NAME:
International Journal of Geosciences,
Vol.5 No.3,
March
27,
2014
ABSTRACT:
A geophysical survey was conducted in the Kelle-Bidjocka village,
Messondo subdivision, in the Centre Region, Cameroon. The data acquisition was
made by combining Schlumberger profiling and electrical soundings along six
(06) profiles of 1500 m in length for a total of 64 geoelectrical stations’
survey conducted through a variable mesh 100 m × 200 m, or 100 m × 300 m. The
equipment used is the DC resistivimeter Syscal Junior 48 (Iris Instrument).
Processing and modelling of field data are made by using the Res2Dinv, Qwseln and Surfer
software. The investigation methods used are electrical resistivity (DC) and induced
polarization (IP) methods. The analyses and interpretations have helped to
highlight areas of weakness or conductive discontinuities (fractures, faults,
shear zones, etc.) in Precambrian gneiss formations, sometimes undergoing
weathering processes. They identify the weathering or mineralogical
accumulation horizons, the most promising is a mineralization channel
identified in the NE-SW direction. The highlighted mineralization is
characterized by strong gradients of chargeability or polarization. Samples and
other geological evidences observed in the area are used to associate the most
polarizable structures with ferriferous formations. Weakly polarizable and
particularly conductive backgrounds identified by the inverse pseudo-sections
are thought to be sulphate minerals or groundwater targets for future
hydrogeological studies.