A case study using radiometrics as a first pass technique to geological mapping in the Musgrave Province in South Australia

Abstract

The use of radiometrics as a regional geological mapping tool is widespread. Ternary, single band, ratio images, profile sections and data fusion techniques were applied to airborne gamma-ray spectrometry data of the Musgrave Province in South Australia. Chemical variations, previously unrecognised were used as a basis for subdividing and mapping key lithologies of Birksgate Giles Complex, and the Kulgera Suite Granites. Variations in emissivity were found to occur in conjunction with one or more of the following; Key tectonic structures In some cases differing magnetic susceptibility Within distinct tectonic domains Due to limited geological mapping little is known about the Musgrave Province however, the Giles Complex is considered as a unit of economic significance for nickel sulphides and PGE, so the need to map its extent becomes vital. Groundtruthing results is required to determine causes of emissivity variations which may be due to alteration associated with hydrothermal fluids or mineralogical/lithological variations within geological units.