INFACT's Airborne Geophysical Campaign in Geyer, Germany

Abstract:

Framed into the EU-funded INFACT Project (Innovative Non-Invasive and Fully Acceptable Exploration Technologies) that aims to improve securing raw materials in Europe, a low-altitude helicopter-borne geophysical campaign took place in the summer of 2018. The campaign consisted of time-domain electromagnetics using the Airborne Versatile TEM (VTEM ET) system, airborne magnetics, radiometry, and Full Tensor Magnetic Gradiometry (FTMG). The study area is populated and infrastructure is abundant, therefore cultural noise suppression is one of the main challenges in the area.

In the analysis of the acquired EM data and looking for quantitative confirmation regarding conductors responsible for the observed responses, resistivity inversions were performed to begin with. Some anomalies were forward modelled with plates. Modelling shows good correlation with main conductive bodies (e.g., graphite). The VTEM ET also provides some insight into the thin conductive quaternary cover. The EM responses of mineralization in the Geyer area are complex and non univocal. Some main geological boundaries dipping to the NW are also generally recovered.

Airborne IP effects on airborne EM are present in the data and have started to be modelled. Results of modelling of IP effects improve matching with geological information and some chargeable anomalies seem to be loosely associated with mineralization.

In 2019, a LIDAR fixed-wing campaign and a UAV’s campaign consisting of hyperspectral, multi spectral, and magnetic methods will take place. All results will be integrated for geological and geophysical benchmarking, potentially leading to the establishment of a reference site in Geyer.

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