Open-File Report 2014–1071
AbstractAs part of the U.S. Geological Survey and Department of Defense Task Force for Business and Stability Operations natural resources revitalization activities in Afghanistan, four permissive areas for mineralization, Bamyan 1, Farah 1, Ghazni 1, and Ghazni 2, have been identified using imaging spectroscopy data. To support economic development, the areas of potential mineralization were selected on the occurrence of selected mineral assemblages mapped using the HyMap™ data (kaolinite, jarosite, hydrated silica, chlorite, epidote, iron-bearing carbonate, buddingtonite, dickite, and alunite) that may be indicative of past mineralization processes in areas with limited or no previous mineral resource studies. Approximately 30 sites were initially determined to be candidates for areas of potential mineralization. Additional criteria and material used to refine the selection and prioritization process included existing geologic maps, Landsat Thematic Mapper data, and published literature. The HyMapTM data were interpreted in the context of the regional geologic and tectonic setting and used the presence of alteration mineral assemblages to identify areas with the potential for undiscovered mineral resources. Further field-sampling, mapping, and supporting geochemical analyses are necessary to fully substantiate and verify the specific deposit types in the four areas of potential mineralization. |
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King, T.V.V., Berger, B.R., and Johnson, M.R., 2014, Characterization of potential mineralization in Afghanistan: Four permissive areas identified using imaging spectroscopy data: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2014–1071, 67 p., https://dx.doi.org/10.3133/ofr20141071.
ISSN 2331-1258 (online)
Abstract
Introduction
Bamyan 1 Area of Potential Mineralization
Farah 1 Area of Potential Mineralization
Ghazni 1 Area of Potential Mineralization
Ghazni 2 Area
Summary of Potential for Mineral Resources
References Cited