Airborne geophysics, petrophysics, geochemistry and geology of Ni-Cu (Co-Au-PGE) footprints to define exploration targets in mafic-ultramafic rocks

The correlation between various prospecting methodologies plays a pivotal role in achieving substantial outcomes in the pursuit of mineral deposits. The use of these methodologies within prospecting programs is widely implemented across diverse geological settings. The purpose of this research was to develop a prospective model for Ni-Cu-Co-Au-PGE (Nickel-Copper-Cobalt-Gold-Platinum Group Elements) within a mafic-ultramafic intrusion known as the Barra do Gameleira Intrusion (BGI), located in Tocantins, Brazil. To achieve it, publicly available data were employed, including airborne geophysics and geochemical data obtained from stream sediments and pan concentrate. Additionally, newly obtained, and unpublished results from lithogeochemical sampling and semi-detailed geological mapping were used. According to what was found, three potential targets were identified based on geophysical and geochemical anomalies. The magnetic results proved a robust correlation between magnetization intensity and anomalous elemental contents in geochemistry. Radiometric data were employed to see the inverse correlation between the concentration of radioelements and geochemical anomalies, particularly with respect to potassium, which exhibited null values in petrophysical measurements. Furthermore, both anomalous potassium and anomalous uranium enhancements showed a strong correlation with the presence of ultramafic rocks. Finally, the geological mapping confirmed that mineralization occurrences are associated with lithologies composed of ultramafic rocks.