Exploring the geochemistry of gold mineralization In Toto Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study explores the geochemistry of gold mineralization in Toto Local Government Area, Nasarawa State Nigeria. The study utilized field and remote sensing data which includes field sampled soil, rocks, Landsat-7 ETM+ and ASTER DEM which were used to detect alterations, extraction and characterization of lineaments associated with gold deposits. The analysis dealt with Oxide composition in percentages which were reclassified into Sio2, Tio2, Al2o3, Fe2o3, Cao amongst others. These were carried out in a GIS working environment using the ArcGIS Software. Results from the Geochemical Analysis (KXRF analysis) show that the sample ST1A, ST3, ST04, STV10, GL01, GL02, GL03, VRII S2, STO4, STVS9, HNVS1 in most profiles generally have the highest concentration (response) of key pathfinder elements (As, Cu, Pb, Zn, Mn). Assessment of the geochemical data indicates that Fe (iron oxide/ox hydroxide) has an important influence on pathfinder element geochemistry in the study area samples. This is indicated by moderate to strong positive correlation between Fe and the elements in the total data set and the individual profile distribution patterns. Result from the study also shows that arsenic generally shows a selective concentration in some samples which happens to be a major pathfinder of Au mineralization followed by copper which is probably the most useful of the major pathfinder elements. The study therefore concludes that based on the outcome of the field sampled rocks, gold mineralization in Toto area is dispersed spatially and geochemically which is attributed to pathfinder. Hence recommends for drilling operations in order to uncover the vertical geochemistry and minerals concentrate with depth of the area using the GIS and remote sensing data/technique.