Application of integrated EM geophysical and mineralogical-chemical methodologies as useful tool in clay mining exploration

A multidisciplinary study attempting to improve estimation of clay deposit potential was performed using geological- geophysical techniques in diffferent areas of Sardinia where clay deposits outcrop. The Very Low Frequency (VLF) Electromagnetic (EM) method was applied. Geophysical investigation yielded information on the lateral and in- depth continuity of the mineralisation, e.g., geometric features, strike and dip of the mineral body, and the geological-structural features of the area. Test drilling, for calibrating geophysical data, confirmed that the high-conductivity zones are related to clay occurrences . Data integration showed that higher-conductivity values are related to the highest clay contents.