Exploring Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) Simulation for Imaging and Determining Electromagnetic Wave Velocity in Volcanogenic Massive Sulfide (VMS) Deposits

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) simulation plays a pivotal role in geophysical methods, aiding in survey design, understanding physical behaviour, and quantifying responses. This study employs the gprMax software to simulate the propagation of electromagnetic waves through different Volcanogenic Massive Sulfide (VMS) deposits, each with unique electrical properties. The fundamentals of GPR modeling and factors influencing survey design (operating frequency, recording time window, temporal and spatial sampling interval) are outlined. Careful consideration of these parameters is essential for effective GPR surveys. In addition, results from the simulations of EM wave propagation through VMS minerals such as Galena, Bornite, Magnetite, Pyrite, Sphalerite and Hematite, and their host rocks were utilized to calculate wave velocities in each mineral, rendering it possible to determine the location of Boundaries of VMS veins within the host rock using this method. Some deposits with lower electrical conductivities, showed possibility of being imaged successfully using Electromagnetic (EM) methods. In contrast, some other deposits, having higher electrical conductivities, tended to weaken electromagnetic signals, especially within the frequency range used in GPR applications. This study enhances our comprehension of GPR simulation and its possible uses in geophysics, specifically in the characterization of diverse geophysical materials that possess distinct electrical properties. 1 INTRODUCTION Volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposits, are key sources of metals like Zn, Cu, Pb, Ag, and Au. Also, there is a substantial proportion of pyrite, or iron sulphide (FeS2) that is frequently connected to VMS occurrences. The economic importance of these deposits is underscored by their contribution to metal production. Most VMS deposits consist of massive (>40 percent) sulphide (typically pyrite, pyrrhotite, chalcopyrite, sphalerite, and galena as well as magnetite) (Best, 2015). These minerals and their associated economic minerals are listed in Table 1. GPR simulation is a powerful tool in delineating VMS deposits, crucial for optimizing GPR survey parameters and understanding mineral-host rock interactions. This approach facilitates accurate mapping and exploration of VMS deposits, enhancing the effectiveness of geophysical surveys by allowing for precise adjustments in survey design based on the simulation outcomes.