The search for gold in Egypt’s Central Eastern Desert has taken a significant leap forward, thanks to a groundbreaking study led by Sobhi M. Ghoneim from the Department of Surveying and Remote Sensing at Central South University. This research, published in ‘Scientific Reports’, unveils an innovative integrated approach that combines remote sensing and geophysical data to identify potential gold mineralization localities in the promising Abu Marawat area.
The Golden Triangle of Egypt, known for its rich mineral deposits, is the backdrop for this study. Ghoneim and his team employed various remote sensing techniques, including Band Ratios and Spectral Angle Mapper, alongside airborne geophysical spectrometry and magnetic data, to create a comprehensive picture of the geological landscape. “Our methodology allowed us to delineate areas with high potential for gold mineralization effectively,” Ghoneim stated, emphasizing the importance of integrating multiple data sources.
The research revealed a complex alteration mineral assemblage primarily consisting of kaolinite, sericite, and iron oxides, which are critical indicators of gold presence. By processing radiometry data, the team mapped localities with considerable potassic alteration abundance, highlighting the significance of potassium distribution in understanding mineralization processes.
One of the standout features of this study is the mapping of surface and subsurface linear structural features. The Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and aeromagnetic data showcased surface structures trending E-W and NE-SW, while subsurface structures predominantly followed a NW-SE trend. These findings align with the local geological and tectonic setting, suggesting a structural control over mineralization. “The correlation between structural features and mineralization potential is a game-changer for exploration strategies,” Ghoneim noted.
The culmination of this research is a mineralization potentiality map that pinpoints eight promising localities for gold exploration. This map not only serves as a crucial tool for mining companies but also has broader implications for the construction sector. As gold mining activities expand, they can stimulate local economies, create jobs, and lead to infrastructural development in previously underexplored regions.
The integration of remote sensing and geophysical data presents a model that could be replicated in other mineral-rich areas globally, transforming how mineral exploration is conducted. Ghoneim’s work exemplifies the fusion of technology and geology, paving the way for more efficient and environmentally conscious mining practices.
As the construction sector increasingly intersects with mining, this research highlights the potential for sustainable growth driven by innovative exploration techniques. The findings from Abu Marawat not only promise to enhance gold extraction efforts but also underscore the critical role of advanced scientific methodologies in shaping the future of resource management.
For further insights into this research, visit the Department of Surveying and Remote Sensing, Central South University.
