Multivariate Statistical Evaluation of Geochemical Data of Badukrom Style Gold Mineralisation within the Base of the Tarkwaian

Authors

  • K. P. Osei
  • Michael Affam University of Mines and Technology
  • C. Kusi-Manu
  • D. T. Kwapong

Abstract

The Kawere conglomerates at the base of the Tarkwaian Group in the Iduapriem block appear to show good prospect for hydrothermal gold mineralisation evidenced by major structures mapped from magnetic and AEM geophysical data. Detailed geological mapping and sampling at Badukrom target which lies within the Kawere rocks confirm the presence of multiple structures as well as quartz veins indicative of potential hydrothermal gold mineralisation.  Follow up soil sampling conducted within the area revealed a strong anomalous trend from the southern portion. Two diamond drilled (DD) holes pushed to delineate the extent of the anomalous zones returned narrow veins of significant gold intersections. Twenty-five (25) samples of the Badukrom hydrothermal Au mineralisation intersects were sent to SGS for analysis to ascertain the optimum pathfinder element suite for the hydrothermal targets within the Iduapriem concession. A total of fifty-nine elements were analysed via ICP-MS and ICP-OES. Multivariate statistical evaluation was carried out on the results to understand the geochemical associations of Au and the other elements to aid future exploration programmes planned for the hydrothermal targets. Multivariate The analysis of the geochemical data using Pearson product-moment of correlation suggests a stronger positive correlation of gold with Iron, Antimony, Sulphur, Chromium, Vanadium respectively. However, the Spearman Rank correlation data indicates that, the optimum pathfinder elements for hydrothermal Au are: As, Sb and Te. A comparison of the two statistical technique shows that the Spearman rank assumes random variables thereby making it more efficient for major or trace element data and hence best technique for this work.

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Published

2021-06-30

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Section

Geological Eng. Article