Company insight The case for the


subsurface images that enable geologists and engineers to identify potential hydrocarbon deposits with accuracy and efficiency. Despite its proven effectiveness, the mining sector has been relatively slow to adopt seismic data as a core method in mineral exploration workflows. This hesitation stems from several factors: ■


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The geological environments of mineral deposits are often more complex and variable, which can distort seismic signals and complicate the acquisition of clear and accurate subsurface images.


The perception of seismic data acquisition as a high-cost endeavour, especially for junior mining companies with tight budgets engaged in early-stage exploration projects.


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There is an increasing need for mining companies to explore deeper due to the depletion of near-surface deposits; however, current exploration tools and workflows are not adequately equipped to address this challenge effectively.


Advancements in seismic technology, improved data processing techniques and sophisticated imaging software are beginning to address these challenges and concerns from the mining sector, making seismic methods more affordable and effective. A “new” exploration approach incorporating high-density seismic data can ensure the sustainability and growth of the mining industry by uncovering valuable mineral resources at greater depths, and at a price point that makes sense.


Imaging with clarity at depth ‘Reflection seismic’ data enhances all other datasets in mineral exploration. This method involves inducing controlled


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eismic data has long been a cornerstone of successful energy exploration, providing detailed


reflection seismic method


As shallow exploration targets become rarer, the reflection seismic method, using the right technology, is playing an increasingly important role in improving the effectiveness of mineral exploration drilling budgets. Low-cost seismic technology like STRYDE seismic nodes can facilitate these reflection seismic surveys.


In the palm of your hand: STRYDE nodes are used to facilitate reflection seismic surveys.


energy into the ground and using seismic sensors to capture its echoes, creating a detailed seismic image through processing. ‘Passive seismic’ commonly referred to as ANT (ambient noise tomography) differs vastly from the reflection seismic method whereby it relies on ambient or ‘found’ seismic energy existing in the earth. Most mineral systems are invisible to ANT due to wavelength limitations and insufficient velocity contrast. Reflection seismic’s key advantage is its high resolving power at depth, unmatched by other geophysical methods, which lose resolution as depth increases. It effectively images deep targets without interference from shallow ones, a common issue with magnetics, gravity and electrical methods.


At a regional scale, 2D reflection seismic data supports a ‘mineral systems approach’, aiding in the selection of prospective tenements by identifying deep-seated structures associated with fluid transfer. At the project exploration scale, 2D reflection seismic data identifies fertile structures and extends known mineralisation depth, enhancing the interpretation of potential field and electrical data.


For detailed imaging at the tenement scale, 3D reflection seismic data is particularly valuable for massive sulphide exploration, revealing repetitions of known mineralisation settings. At the mine scale, 3D reflection seismic effectively identifies drill targets near existing infrastructure, extending mine life. In all cases, reflection seismic data optimises the drilling budget, requiring fewer boreholes for discovery and resource definition, thus stretching exploration funds further, especially when agile, low-cost seismic technology like STRYDE seismic nodes are used to facilitate these reflection seismic surveys by offering a cost-effective, efficient solution for data acquisition.


When is seismic worthwhile? Reflection seismic survey costs are largely determined by the technology used for data acquisition. Utilizing lower- cost, small and lightweight seismic technology can significantly reduce both capital and operational expenses, as well as the time needed to gather data. For instance, the use of STRYDE nodes in mineral exploration projects has been shown to cut survey costs by up to 50%, when compared with projects using bulky nodes or cabled geophones.


This reduction is achieved using cost- effective equipment, smaller crews, fewer vehicles, reduced field time and lower logistical expenses. This approach not only optimises exploration budgets but also enhances the accuracy and success rate of identifying mineral deposits, making reflection seismic methods a more attractive and practical option for deep mineral exploration. ●


https://strydefurther.com World Mining Frontiers / www.nsenergybusiness.com

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