Journal of Geology & Geophysics
Open Access

Abstract

Integrated Geophysical, Geological and Geochemical Assessment of Ironstone Deposits in the Bida Basin: A Case Study from Gulu Area, North- Central, Nigeria

Yusuf TU*, Obaje NG, Yusuf I

Gulu ironstones deposits well-endowed with hematite, holds significant economic importance due to its diverse properties and applications. It possesses great potential to contributes significantly to industries, aesthetics and technological advancements, making it a valuable and versatile compound in our daily lives. Integrated Geophysical investigations using Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) technique, geological field mapping and geochemical analysis were employed to investigate the subsurface resource, by mapping the Ironstone occurrences, estimated the volume and quality of the Iron ore present. This assessment informs mining companies and other stakeholders about the economic viability of exploitations as well as guiding the exploration efforts, minimizing costs and maximizing efficiency for responsible resource utilization wisdom. Five VES points data were acquired using ABEM SAS 4000. The data sets were processed using computer processing techniques. The area (Gulu) was geologically mapped and the sample taken was geochemically analyzed using Genius IF-Xenemetrix XRF equipment to affirm the 18 different chemical components of the investigated Ironstone. The varying concentrations of the 18 chemical components were discovered across the profile with picks indicated by Iron III oxide. Developing traces of silicon di-oxide and aluminium oxide were also established within the investigated area. The VES data processed using the IPI2WIN software programme plotted as modelled plots correlated well with the chemical analysis results. The VES results indicated that the Ironstone average thickness deposit was 67.84 m at Gulu, with resistivity values ranging between 1063 ohm/m and 631125 Ω-m. The study in addition, reveals a thick Ironstone occurrence with deposit reserve estimate of about 1.6 × 10⁹ tons. The observed outcrops from the geological field mappings, analytic signal peaks and thickness levels from the geophysical 2-D source parameter images and discoveries from the geochemical analysis results are the basis for the produced Ironstones prospectivity map for the area studied.

Published Date: 2025-04-17; Received Date: 2024-04-13