What are the different kinds of geochemical techniques used in mining exploration?

Question

please list down

Answer 1

I'm not familiar with many geochem techniques used in mine exploration. Typically exploration at an active mine site is done through drilling.

Once a mine is ready to open, that means a significant ore body has been defined. The goal of mine exploration is to expand that ore body and extend the life of the mine. The geologists will map and drill the area around the mine and look for similar mineralization trends. They will analyze drill cuttings for the particular commodity they are mining (gold, nickel, etc.). Additionally, they will test for marker elements that could indicate favorable conditions for the target commodity. For example, higher levels of mercury and arsenic are found around gold deposits. Mapping those elements can indicate drilling targets for gold.

The chemical analysis of the samples is not done by the geologists but by an assayer in a lab. If it's at a mine site they probably have their own lab. There are also contract labs working for exploration geologists.

Answer 2

These two sites may give some more information. Also the USGS site will cover various geochemical techniques.

http://www.usgs.gov/science/science.php?...

http://www.mine-engineer.com/mining/mine...

http://geology.about.com/sitesearch.htm?...

Answer 3

One of the main methods of geochemical analysis used in mining exploration is assays of rivers - chemical concentrations in excess of norms can indicate mineral deposits...