Structural analysis of Haut-Nkam division, Central-Africa using remote sensing data and GIS technics

Abstract

This study uses remote sensing technology and GIS technics for structural study of the Haut-Nkam division with the aim of mapping the lineaments that can significantly influence all geo-structures by identifying major geological features and comes out with a new major structural map. Two methods are used: (i) the spatial reclassification of satellite images LANSAT 7 ETM + and 8 OLI/TIRS; and (ii) the application of band ratios. The confirmation of the structural features (faults, fractures and tectonic directions) is made by (i) a wide variety of digital image processing techniques such as (a) Composite bands and color composition filtrations; (b) Principal Component Analysis (PCA); (c) lineaments density map filtration: (ii) the superposition of the lineaments with the geological maps of each Subdivision and district of the study area. A total of 578 lineaments have been identified following the major directions of NE-SW, NNE-SSW, ENE-WSW, ESE-WNW and E-W with a total length of about 2273 km. These lengths vary from 38.11 to 128.08 km with an average length of 58.87 km. Major lineaments are identified in the six sub-divisions (Bana, Kekem, Bandja, Banka, Bakou, Bafang) and district (Bawa) of the Haut-Nkam division with a majority concentrated at Bakou followed by Bandja and finally Kekem. These major structural deformations identified which could be eminent faults, breakage, or tectonic direction, etc… could have hydrological or hydrogeological implications.

Keywords

• Haut-Nkam Division
• Remote Sensing
• LANDSAT- 8 OLI and LANDSAT- 7 ETM+ images
• Lineaments
• Structural Mapping