An assessment of 3D ZTEM results over three deposits

Abstract

The ZTEM airborne EM system was introduced by Geotech Ltd. into commercial service in 2008. Based on measuring the tipper ratios of AFMAG frequencies, ZTEM provides conductivity information about the earth's near surface that can assist in the exploration for a variety of mineral deposit styles. The results of a surveys over three deposits will be examined; a skarn-style or carbonate replacement deposit in Mexico, a porphyry copper deposit in British Columbia and an epithermal precious-base metals deposit in the Yukon. For each study, both 2D and 3D processing has been undertaken and the outcomes evaluated in light of known geology. A simple technique will be discussed which has been developed to assess data sets to establish whether or not 3D processing (which requires more time and hence more costly) is required.