Interpretation of High-Resolution Airborne Radiometric Data Over Part of Lower Benue Trough, Nigeria

Abstract

Airborne radiometric data of part of Lower Benue Trough of Nigeria were interpreted quantitatively to determine the relative abundance of natural radioactive elements of Uranium (U), Thorium (Th) and Potassium (K) in the area. The observed count rate for Uranium, Thorium and Potassium in the study area were 0.8−6.8 ppm, 4.3−23.2 ppm and 0.09−0.63 % respectively. A ternary image of the radio-elements showed that the northern parts of Dekina and Soko have low concentrations of the three radionuclides whereas high concentration of the three radionuclides were noted at the northern part of Angba, southern part of Dekina and the western part of Ankpa. The ternary map also showed that Potassium in comparison to Uranium and Thorium in the study area is more abundant around the Angba area. The result of the radioelement maps and radiometric ratio maps revealed the presence of shale, feldspar, gabbro, granite and amphibolite in the study area. These mineral deposits could serve as raw materials for industries in Nigeria if harnessed.