Application of High-Resolution Aeromagnetic and Gamma-ray Spectrometry Surveys for Litho-Structural Mapping in Southwest China

Abstract

Airborne geophysical surveys serve as an effective tool for litho-structural mapping, providing extensive and high-resolution underground information. They offer vital data support for the interpretation and analysis of lithologies and structures, complementing surface geological mapping. In the study area of the Nanpanjiang-Youjiang metallogenic belt in southeast China, we obtained high-resolution aeromagnetic and gamma-ray spectrometry data covering an area of approximately 27,000 km2, which facilitated the conduct of litho-structural mapping. The total magnetic intensity, reduction to the pole, and directional derivative maps generated from the aeromagnetic data, efficiently identified concealed rocks and faults. Additionally, the total count, potassium, thorium to potassium ratio, and ternary maps generated from the airborne gamma-ray spectrometry data demonstrated advantages in distinguishing carbonate rocks from clastic rocks. They also provided more comprehensive geological information, refining the structural strike and location interpreted by the aeromagnetic data. The litho-structural map produced in this study significantly contributes to our understanding of the structures in the Nanpanjiang area and offers valuable guidance for successful mineral exploration endeavors.