New Targets of Potential Mining Interest Using Gravimetric and Satellite Data: Case Study of Hercynian Rehamna Massif, Morocco

Abstract

The known mineralization in the Rehamna Massif is essentially vein type and linked to the presence of granitic bodies and pneumatolytic - hydrothermal fluid circulations. This part of western Moroccan Meseta, belongs to the Hercynian belt, was the seat of enormous mining productions mainly base metals during the 20th century. Subsequently, exploitations are ended with artisanal extractions, in relation to exploration decline. The present work aims to search for new favourable mining targets, using gravimetric and remote sensing data. Gravimetric data allowed us to delineate leucogranitic apexes of shallow depth. Data filtering and processing consist of separation between Regional and Residual fields from Bouguer anomaly, then, calculation of horizontal, vertical and tilt derivatives to get different gravity anomalies. A Satellite image is used to obtain structural lineaments of the study region through directional filters (N0°, N45°, N90°, N135°). These treatments, supported by field investigations, enabled us to discriminate potential areas, suitable for tactical mining exploration.