Evidence of Iron Mineralization Channels in the Messondo Area (Centre-Cameroon) Using Geoelectrical (DC & IP) Methods: A Case Study

Abstract

A geophysical survey was conducted in the Kelle-Bidjocka village, Messondo subdivision, in the Centre Region, Cameroon. The data acquisition was made by combining Schlumberger profiling and electrical soundings along six (06) profiles of 1500 m in length for a total of 64 geoelectrical stations’ survey conducted through a variable mesh 100 m × 200 m, or 100 m × 300 m. The equipment used is the DC resistivimeter Syscal Junior 48 (Iris Instrument). Processing and modelling of field data are made by using the Res2Dinv, Qwseln and Surfer software. The investigation methods used are electrical resistivity (DC) and induced polarization (IP) methods. The analyses and interpretations have helped to highlight areas of weakness or conductive discontinuities (fractures, faults, shear zones, etc.) in Precambrian gneiss formations, sometimes undergoing weathering processes. They identify the weathering or mineralogical accumulation horizons, the most promising is a mineralization channel identified in the NE-SW direction. The highlighted mineralization is characterized by strong gradients of chargeability or polarization. Samples and other geological evidences observed in the area are used to associate the most polarizable structures with ferriferous formations. Weakly polarizable and particularly conductive backgrounds identified by the inverse pseudo-sections are thought to be sulphate minerals or groundwater targets for future hydrogeological studies.