Integration of remote sensing and geological mapping for economic mineralization mapping in Mwitika-Makongo area, Kitui country

Abstract

This study integrates geology with remote sensing techniques to establish geological structures and their associated economic mineralization in the rocks of Mwitika-Makongo area. The objective of this study was to map hydrothermally altered zones from Landsat 8/OLI of the study area and validate the results with geological mapping. The remote sensing methods included; band combinations, band ratios and lineament extraction. Geological methods consisted of, field mapping and geochemical analysis. The integrated techniques resulted in lithological discrimination of hydrothermally altered zones. Geological field mapping and geochemical investigations led to the interpretation of some iron mineralization in hydrothermally altered zones, especially around Kalima Kathei. It also led to the conclusion that lineaments control drainage patterns in the area. Chemical analysis using X-Ray fluorescence, for mineralized samples followed by Pearson correction matrix of the chemical data gave a strong correlation between Fe2O3 , TiO2 and P2O5 indicating that their mode of delivery in the area could be similar, with a likely source from hydrothermal fluids in the area. These results confirmed the findings from remote sensing studies on hydrothermal alteration. It was therefore concluded that integration of remote sensing techniques and geological field mapping provide a tool for delineating economic mineralization in Neoproterozoic rocks.