Integrated aeromagnetic and airborne radiometric analysis for structural mapping and mineralisation potential in the Naraguta Area, North-Central Nigeria

This research provides insights into the structural settings and geochemically altered zones within Naraguta and its environs. Various enhancement techniques were employed to identify the edges of structures controlling the magnetic field direction, the location, and the morphology of causative bodies. Source parameter imaging was used to analyse the depth of magnetic sources. Radiometric data processing was performed to identify alteration zones. Maps such as the K/Th and K/U, as well as the U/Th and U/K ratio maps, and a normalised ternary map were generated. From the magnetic analysis. Intrusions such as the Neil's Valley granite porphyry and Naraguta quartz pyroxene-fayalite-porphyry were delineated, along with rhyolites and pyroclastics. The study area’s structures predominantly trend northeast-southwest, with additional orientations reflecting Pan-African orogeny structures, which may be linked to hydrothermal deposits. In addition, these could be related to different geological processes, such as faulting, jointing, or regional stress patterns. They can lead to structural alignments even in non-orogenic environments like the Younger Granites. The K/Th ratio values of 0.20 % ppm −1 were identified above the expected background in an acidic environment, implying possible mineralisation such as tin and its associates as well as rare earths. Geochemical alteration zones were present in various parts of the area in alignment with magnetic lines, implying mineralisation potential. • The dominant trends are NNE-SSW and NE-SW, with few exceptions reflecting the Pan-African orogenic event. • The study identifies abnormal K/Th ratio, with a value of up to 0.20 %ppm −1 . • Evidence of hydrothermal alteration was observed in the study area's NW, NE, SE, SW, and central parts. • The identified lineaments correlate with zones of possible alteration suggesting their potential for mineralisation. • Integration of aeromagnetic and airborne radiometric data reveals a high-probability target for subsurface mineralisation.