Mineral Research and Geological Survey
Mineral research planning essentially begins the moment a target area, or greenfield, is identified. The planning of the activities is essential for the execution of a good survey and consequently the obtaining of good data.
The campaign always starts with the reconnaissance of the area through bibliographical data available in public data. The main information obtained in this phase is related to:
- Climate;
- Geology and Geomorphology;
- Hydrography;
- Access routes;
- Fauna and Flora;
- Social Issues;
- Location and Boundaries of Private Properties.
These data allow the project manager to start sketching the first information on the geological model existing in the area, as well as the research methodology that should be employed for the recognition of possible deposits.
The main research techniques employed in mineral prospecting are:
- Geological Mapping;
- Geophysical Prospecting;
- Topography or Aerophotogrammetry;
- Soundings;
- Opening of Wells and Trenches;
- Sampling;
- Laboratory Analysis; etc.
All these techniques when employed by an experienced professional culminate in a complete knowledge of the geology and possible existing deposits.
It is extremely important that these techniques are defined through prior knowledge of the area, as the choice and application of wrong techniques can result in failure.
