Abstract
Central Portugal is well known for the existence of Sn-W and Au-Ag mineral occurrences primarily associated with hydrothermal processes. Despite the economic and strategic importance of such occurrences, the detailed geology of this particular region is poorly known and there is an obvious absence of geological mapping at an adequate scale. Remote sensing techniques were used in order to increase current geological knowledge of the Góis–Castanheira de Pêra area (600 km2) and to guide future exploration stages by targeting and prioritising potential locations. Digital image processing algorithms, such as Red, Green, Blue (RGB) colour composites, digital spatial filters, band ratios and Principal Components Analysis, were applied to Landsat 8 imagery and elevation data. Lineaments were extracted relying on geological photointerpretation criteria, allowing the identification of new geological–structural elements. Fieldwork was carried out in order to validate the remote sensing interpretations. Integration of remote sensing data with other information sources led to the definition of locations possibly suitable for hosting Sn-W and Au-Ag mineral occurrences. These areas were ranked according to their mineral potential. Targeting the most promising locations resulted in a reduction to less than 10% of the original study area (50.5 km2).
Highlights
In recent decades, a tendency regarding mineral exploration has become apparent: since the most accessible surface or near-surface mineral deposits have already been found and nearly fully exploited, current exploration endeavours are targeting deeper and deeper deposits, in harsher and evermore difficult terrain [1]
As one of the cutting-edge technologies currently supporting the geosciences, remote sensing may have a significant role in mineral exploration works, effectively decreasing initial investments and saving time by clearly targeting the most suitable locations for the occurrence of ore deposits
The advantages and limitations of remote sensing techniques in mineral exploration have already been thoroughly discussed by many authors [1,2,3,4]
Summary
A tendency regarding mineral exploration has become apparent: since the most accessible surface or near-surface mineral deposits have already been found and nearly fully exploited, current exploration endeavours are targeting deeper and deeper deposits, in harsher and evermore difficult terrain [1]. As one of the cutting-edge technologies currently supporting the geosciences (among others), remote sensing may have a significant role in mineral exploration works, effectively decreasing initial investments and saving time by clearly targeting the most suitable locations for the occurrence of ore deposits. The advantages and limitations of remote sensing techniques in mineral exploration have already been thoroughly discussed by many authors [1,2,3,4]. It must be made clear that remote sensing is not a substitute for direct fieldwork and laboratory studies; quite the opposite, the best interpretation results are consistently obtained from the integration of different data and even from analysis at different scales. Despite being no replacement for fieldwork and other more traditional methods, remote sensing can provide essential information from a truly new perspective.
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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
