Mineral exploration modeling of metallic deposits using ASTER and OLI images for producing mineral potential map in Esfandaghe region, Kerman province

Mineral exploration in Esfandagheh area, located in south east of Kerman province is complicated due to verity of metallic deposits including volcanogenic massive sulfide copper, skarn iron, and volcanic manganese. This research was carried out with the aim of defining a model for mineral exploration and providing mineral potential map using remote sensing data. ASTER and OLI images along with various image processing techniques including color composite of band ratios, principal component analysis (PCA), and QI and SI indices were applied to recognize the hydrothermal alteration halos. Result validation was done through field and laboratory studies. Argillic, phyllic, propylitic, and iron oxides/hydroxides alterations were enhanced using color composite ratios of ASTER bands like (B4+B7)/B6 in red, (B4+B6)/B5 in green, and (B7+B9)/B8 in blue. Hydrothermal alteration mapping was also accomplished using selected PCA of OLI 2, 4, 6, and 7 bands, ASTER 4 to 9 bands and a combination of OLI 2 and 4 bands along with ASTER 4 to 9 bands. ASTER thermal infrared bands applied to determine QI and SI indices for enhancing silicic halos. Mineral potential map was produced through integrating alteration maps by fuzzy logic method in which seven areas were identified such as Sargaz Kuh copper mine, Hossein Abad manganese mine, and Esfandagheh iron mine. Results showed the possibility of establishing mineral exploration model and producing mineral potential map in reconnaissance and prospecting stages using appropriate sensors and image processing techniques.