Application of Multi-Element Soil Geochemistry and Particulate Gold Exploration in the Kambele Plain, Batouri Gold District, Southeast Cameroon

Abstract

AbstractSoil geochemistry remains an essential tool in mineral exploration, especially in areas where the scarcity of outcrops and a thick lateritic overburden undermine the understanding of subsurface ore deposits. Thirty-five soil samples collected from six profiles within a 40 km2 block around the Batouri gold district, southeast Cameroon were analyzed for major elements (Fe, K) and trace elements (Au, As, Ba, Hg, Sb, W, Cd, Cu, Mo, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn, Ga, Ge, Se, Ta, Cs, Ti, Bi) using both inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). Furthermore, a heavy mineral concentrate from the sampling point with the highest Au concentration (64 mg Kg−1 Au) was examined for the presence of particulate gold. The element concentrations obtained were plotted on element distribution maps and contoured to show the distribution patterns of the various elements in the soil. The results show that anomalous gold concentrations are found in the northeastern part of the study area. The data were analyzed using multivariate statistics and results from the principal component analysis (PCA) shows six components with components 2 (Au-As-Sb-W) and 3 (Cu-Ni-Zn-S) pointing to hydrothermal sulphide-related mineralization in the underlying rocks. As, Sb, W and S are identified in this study as potential pathfinder elements for gold mineralization in the Batouri gold district. Gold grains were recovered from the concentrate and this point to gold dispersal in the solid-state within the weathering cycle.KeywordsSoilGeochemistryPrincipal component analysis (PCA)Pathfinder elementsParticulate goldCameroon