A contribution of airborne magnetic, gamma ray spectrometric data in understanding the structure of the Central Jebilet Hercynian massif and implications for mining

Abstract

The Central Jebilet massif, well-known for its mining potential, has been explored for several years by the Managem Group, in collaboration with the National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM), Morocco. This massif was surveyed by high-resolution magnetic and gamma-ray spectrometric methods in 1997 as part of a broader exploration program. In order to better exploit the results of this survey in understanding the structure of the Central Jebilet massif, we performed a series of processing of the collected data. The qualitative interpretation of this data highlighted the various magnetic domains, structures (e.g., lineaments and faults), and mafic intrusions. Euler deconvolution calculations provided estimates of the spatial location and depth of the magnetic sources, and spectral analysis of the magnetic data allowed further refinement of these depth estimates. Quantitative interpretation of some anomalies associated with exposed gossans allowed the characterization of their causative bodies, inferred to be sulfide deposits. The magnetic character of both the potential massive-sulfide bodies and the basic magmatic rocks (gabbro) were determined by the aeromagnetic data. Gamma ray spectrometric data has helped facilitate lithological discrimination and alteration zones, based on the radio-elemental distribution in the area. For example, the Thorium to Potassium ratio (Th/K) was used to highlight potassic alteration zones associated with massive-sulfide deposits in the Central Jebilet. The combined magnetic and radiometric study reveals the magnetic character of the Central Jebilet gossans, due to the content of pyrrhotite, which along with potassic alterations, has been recognized in all the known deposits of the Marrakech region. The results of this geophysical campaign supplement the existing geological and structural maps of Central Jebilet massif.