Reflection seismic profiling for massive sulphides in the high Arctic

As a direct result of the LITHOPROBE earth science research program there has been renewed interest in the use of high resolution seismic reflection methods as a tool in mineral exploration in Canada. The method is directly applicable to scenarios where the more traditional mineral exploration techniques such as EM cannot adequately probe to moderate depths with the necessary detail because of the presence of highly conductive terrain. A series of high resolution seismic reflection test surveys were undertaken on the Borden Peninsula, Baffrn Island, Northwest Territories in the vicinity of Strathcona Sound. The main objectives of the test survey program were to: (1) determine the suitability of using a portable high resolution multi-channel engineering seismograph in the demanding environment of the high Arctic; (2) determine if the massive sulphides (2 to 10 m thick of massive pyrite) in the vicinity of Nanisivik could be directly detected, if so, under what conditions; (3) determine if the method provided adequate data quality and depth resolution to detect geological contacts at depth and (4) ascertain the cost effectiveness of the method over more conventional and traditional mineral exploration techniques. The results of the test survey were somewhat inconclusive. It was found that: (1) current portable high resolution seismographs are suitable for use in the high Arctic, but only under favourable weather conditions; (2) it is possible to directly detect massive sulphides, but only if they are of sufficient thickness, not buried at excessive depths, and present a sufficient velocity contrast with respect to the host rock; (3) it is possible to obtain adequate data quality and depth penetration; and (4) the method is a viable alternative to more traditional methodologies.