In the heart of Egypt’s Eastern Desert, a geological treasure trove is revealing its secrets, thanks to cutting-edge research led by Ahmed M. Eldosouky from Suez University. The Safaga-Semna shear belt (SSSB), a complex network of rock formations, has long been known for its gold deposits, but new insights are shedding light on its structural and tectonic evolution, potentially revolutionizing mineral exploration and extraction methods.
Eldosouky and his team have integrated aeromagnetic data, remote sensing, and field studies to unravel the geodynamic and tectonic history of the SSSB. This multidisciplinary approach has allowed them to map both shallow and deep structural elements, providing a comprehensive view of the region’s geological complexity. “By combining these datasets, we can see the big picture,” Eldosouky explains. “It’s like having a high-resolution map that shows not just the surface features, but also what’s happening deep underground.”
The research, published in the journal Geomechanics and Geophysics for Geo-Energy and Geo-Resources, highlights the role of shear zones in controlling the distribution of ore resources, including gold. The team identified four major deformation phases, each contributing to the unique structural attributes of the SSSB. Notably, they found that north-south shear zones play a critical role in gold mineralization across several key mines, including Gidami and Abu Marawat.
The implications for the energy and mining sectors are significant. Understanding the structural controls on mineralization can lead to more targeted and efficient exploration strategies. “This research provides a blueprint for integrating multiscale geological and geophysical datasets,” Eldosouky says. “It’s not just about finding more gold; it’s about doing so in a way that’s more sustainable and cost-effective.”
The use of advanced techniques such as the Improved Logistic and Logistic function of the total horizontal gradient has allowed the team to outline structural elements at various depths, from 1 to 5 kilometers. This depth of analysis is crucial for identifying potential mineralization zones that might have been overlooked in previous studies.
Remote sensing data, including Landsat-8 imagery and Sentinel-2B color composites, have been instrumental in mapping lithological and alteration zones. These zones are often indicators of mineral-rich areas, providing valuable insights for exploration teams. The integration of Sentinel-1A SAR data further enhances the accuracy of lineament extraction, which are linear features on the Earth’s surface that can indicate underlying geological structures.
The SSSB’s central area, characterized by intense deformation and north-south shearing, is of particular interest. This region’s volcaniclastic metasediments and metavolcanics have undergone significant deformation, making them prime targets for further exploration. The research suggests that the density of lineaments and the presence of alteration zones are strongly correlated with gold deposits, offering a clear path forward for mineral exploration.
As the energy sector continues to seek new sources of valuable minerals, the insights gained from this research could shape future developments in the field. By providing a detailed interpretation of the tectonic development and structural controls on mineralization, Eldosouky’s work underscores the potential of integrating multiscale datasets. This approach not only improves our understanding of shear zones but also paves the way for more efficient and sustainable mining practices.
For companies operating in the Eastern Desert, this research offers a roadmap for exploring the region’s mineral potential. By leveraging the latest in geophysical and remote sensing technologies, they can identify high-potential areas with greater precision, reducing the risks and costs associated with exploration. As Eldosouky puts it, “The future of mineral exploration lies in the integration of advanced technologies and multidisciplinary approaches. This is the key to unlocking the full potential of regions like the Safaga-Semna shear belt.”
The findings published in Geomechanics and Geophysics for Geo-Energy and Geo-Resources, which translates to Geomechanics and Geophysics for Energy and Mineral Resources, represent a significant step forward in our understanding of the Eastern Desert’s geological landscape. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights gained from this research will be invaluable in shaping the future of mineral exploration and extraction.
