Application of Geophysical Technique in Delineation of Marble Deposit in Ikpeshi, Edo, Nigeria

Abstract:

The increasing demand for mineral substances and the need to maintain the current consumption pattern require constant research for new deposits or studies to expand exploration reserves. A geophysical technique was employed in the delineation of this mineral deposit. The results obtained in each VES have three geo-electric layers, which comprise clay/clayey-sand (81.8 – 155.7 Ωm), Sand (101.8 – 380.4 Ωm) and marble (1019 – 4419 Ωm) horizon units. The geologic section was deduced from borehole log data acquired within the study area. All the surveyed locations show traces of the existence of marble deposits in the area. The study revealed occurrences of marble deposits in the study area, which will be of economic importance if exploited. The reserve tonnage was calculated to be about 1.69 x 10⁶ tons. This estimate signifies that there is a fair reserve of marble within the study portion of the location.