Abstract:
Use of conventional field methods to assess remote areas for exploration is costly, labor
and time intensive. To remotely identify potential mineralized zones this study tests
and utilizes ASTER satellite data for digital processes in Baluchistan. Digital image
processing is an effective tool in mineral identification and exploration globally. To
explore and exploit full potential of the deposit and new prospects, Pakistan is making
use of modern technology through remote sensing investigations of the mineral rich
terrain. The current study focusses on Reqo Diq Copper Deposit of Baluchistan. Reqo
Diq is a high mineralized zone rich in porphyry copper deposits. To study the potential
of this deposit information was selected through reduction in spectral dimension of
ASTER VNIR and SWIR data. Data was obtained using 3 techniques, i.e. PCA, BR
and MNF for enhancing the feature of interest in the study area. This study will review
the digital image processing in mineral exploration for zones of interest, considering
the opportunities and shortcomings of the existing and modern technology. Emphasis
is placed on deriving mineral indicators such as identification of areas of
hydrothermally altered rocks/ zones, that are naturally associated with copper deposits.
Distinctive shortwave infrared (SWIR) properties of the ASTER data can be used for
new porphyry copper mineralization and discriminations were made at larger scale in
study area. Results infer that integration of image processing techniques can work as
an effective tool for obtaining time-efficient, detailed and reliable information in
different stages of porphyry copper exploration. The results from present study can
work as a resource in assisting geologists in future exploration of new unassessed
porphyry copper deposits before in-depth site investigations which is a costly process.
Subsequently image processing techniques can produce favorable indications about
potential sites of potential mineral prospects.
