Geological Interpretation of Airborne Radiometric Data for Mineral Exploration Potential

Authors

Keywords:

Airborne radiometrics, Hydrothermal alteration, Potassium, Thorium, Uranium, Mineral exploration, F-parameter

Abstract

This study interprets airborne radiometric data to evaluate mineral exploration potential within a basement complex terrain. Concentration maps of potassium (K), thorium (Th), and uranium (U), together with ternary composites, radiometric ratios, and the Efimov F-parameter, were used to delineate lithological units and hydrothermal alteration zones. Elevated K values exceeding 1.2% occur mainly in the southeastern and central regions, accompanied by high K/Th ratios (>0.09) and positive F-parameter anomalies (>0.2), indicating potassic alteration. Uranium highs exceeding 6 ppm and elevated U/Th ratios (>0.3) mark zones of uranium mobility and secondary enrichment. The integration of all radiometric products highlights extensive hydrothermal alteration in the southeastern and central sectors, which is spatially associated with structural trends typical of orogenic mineral systems. Comparison with earlier radiometric studies across Nigeria, Morocco, Egypt, and Senegal confirms the reliability of these indicators. The identified zones represent high-priority targets for gold and base-metal exploration.

Dimensions

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Published

2026-01-08

How to Cite

Ohaegbuchu, H. E., Ndubueze, D. N., Obiajulu, O. O., & Ahamefule, Y. C. (2026). Geological Interpretation of Airborne Radiometric Data for Mineral Exploration Potential. Nigerian Journal of Physics, 35(1), 91-100. https://doi.org/10.62292/njp.v35i1.2026.473

Issue

Vol. 35 No. 1 (2026): Nigerian Journal of Physics - Vol. 35 No. 1

Section

Articles
Copyright & Licensing

How to Cite

Ohaegbuchu, H. E., Ndubueze, D. N., Obiajulu, O. O., & Ahamefule, Y. C. (2026). Geological Interpretation of Airborne Radiometric Data for Mineral Exploration Potential. Nigerian Journal of Physics, 35(1), 91-100. https://doi.org/10.62292/njp.v35i1.2026.473