Abstract
The study present the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) to assess the geotectonic regimen of the Sabinas Basin. Initially, the GIS database was designed using geological and geophysical information (total magnetic field reduced to the pole). Subsequently, 2D models of the basin were obtained along 4 profiles running on a north-south direction. The implementation of GIS enables a geological-geophysical interpretation generating various thematic maps that overlap the magnetic map during interpretation. The analysis of overlapping maps enables the identification of areas with different geotectonic regimes in the Sabinas Basin, as well as the relationship between these environments and mineralization. The qualitative and quantitative interpretation of the aeromagnetic data obtained for the total magnetic field reduced to the pole delineate uplifted basement areas as well as shallower blocks within them. This paper presents the location of both the basin´s deepest zones and its probable faults, which can be linked to the block boundaries. The faults zones and block boundaries correspond to the main mineral deposits found in the basin. Finally, the geotectonic regime of some sectors of the basin is detailed in order to reaffirm the results obtained by the interpretation of aeromagnetic data.
Highlights
The efficient interpretation of geophysical data requires the knowledge and appropriate use of geological information, especially information represented on geological maps
Use of Geographic Information System (GIS) to assess the geotectonic regime using aeromagnetic data reduced to the pole
As it is considered that the behavior of the magnetic field mainly correspond to the basement rocks of the Sabinas Basin (Pascacio-Toledo, 2001), this area is characterized by uplifted basament blocks (Vázquez et al, 1990; Gunn, 1997) composed of igneous and metamorphic rocks (PascacioToledo, 2001; Jacobo-Albarrán et al, 2011)
Summary
The efficient interpretation of geophysical data requires the knowledge and appropriate use of geological information, especially information represented on geological maps. The surface and subterranean distribution of different rocks types and geological structures provide the basis for the behavior of magnetic field (Telford et al, 1990). The magnetic field is principally related to the crystalline basement, which is generally composed of igneous and metamorphic rocks which have a very high magnetic effect (Vázquez et al, 1990; Gunn, 1997). Deformations in the sedimentary infill of the basin may be related to their basement dynamics, which are linked to faults that cause uplifted or depressed blocks (Gunn, 1997). The magnetic method has been used for the mineral exploration in the Sabinas Basin, which is located in northeastern Mexico (Figure 1) (Pascacio-Toledo, 2001). The deposits of metallic and nonmetallic minerals found in this basin, comprise mainly coal, fluorite, celestine, PbZn-Ag and hydrocarbons (Eguiluz de Antuñano, 2001; Corona-Esquivel et al, 2006; González-Sánchez et al, 2007, 2015)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
