Combined Geoelectrical Approach DC and IP Methods in the Identification of the Mineralized Bodies Parallel to the NE-SW Tectonic Line of Kadei River: Case of Quartz or Pegmatite Gold Bearing Veins of Ngoura Subdivision (East Cameroon)

Abstract

A geophysical investigation of subsurface structures using the Syscal Junior 48 resistivity-meter was conducted in Ngoura subdivision (East Cameroon) following a combined geoelectrical direct current (DC) approach involving Resistivity and IP methods. This investigation was allowed to collect data on forty-five (45) profiling lines at three acquisition levels (AB = 100 m, MN = 10 m; AB = 200 m, MN = 20 m and AB = 500 m, MN = 50 m) and two electric panels L1 and L4, using the Schlumberger array. Processing, modeling and interpretation of data collected using the Winsev, Res2Dinv and Surfer software helped in highlighting a conductive and strongly mineralized discontinuity in granite formations, which lined up with the NE-SW Kadei tectonic line. It extends beyond 100 m depth over an average width of 600 m. The mineralization associated with this discontinuity is identified by a high concentration of disseminated metalliferous minerals in quartz or pegmatite veins. The mining reconnaissance works in the study area and those of several authors have characterized this anomaly to a lode gold quartz or large pegmatite. The results of this study correlate with geological and tectonic data for the region marked by NE-SW Kadei tectonic line. Therefore, they confirm the reliability of a geoelectrical DC investigation method combining Resistivity and IP to the identification of ore bodies.