Digital image processing of Integrated airborne geophysical data for uranium-mineralized breccia pipe exploration in northwestern Arizona

Digital analysis and integration of disparate data sets are Increasingly being utilized in many exploration programs. In this study we developed a model using four Integrated airborne geophysical measurements collected over an area in northwestern Arizona for breccia pipe exploration. The area is known for its uranium-mineralized breccia pipes. Interest in breccia pipes in the region is currently high because of the high-grade uranium ore found within the pipes and the tendency of the deposits to be polymetallic. Thirteen areas of interest were identified using the model. Subsequent field checking confirmed that three of the anomalies are known orebodies and the other areas corresponded to suspected pipes and have been under evaluation by the exploration companies who own the properties.