Let's break the myth to better understand how geophysics can help

Lithium is predominantly found in lithium-rich brine deposits, pegmatites, and lithium-bearing clays. Identifying areas with high concentrations is a challenge as lithium deposits can be scattered and not easily predictable. At Abitibi Geophysics, we believe that developing specialized exploration techniques to identify and delineate such deposits is crucial.  

Geophysics is instrumental to develop effective exploration strategies and techniques for lithium deposits. It involves the measurement and analysis of physical properties of the subsurface to infer geological structures and identify potential mineral deposits. At Abitibi Geophysics, we offer several geophysical surveying methods that can be applied to lithium exploration: 

1. Magnetotelluric (MT, AMT, and CSAMT) surveys (new service!): MT measures natural variations of magnetic and electric fields to gain insights into the conductivity distribution beneath the surface. Lithium-rich brine deposits often exhibit distinct electrical conductivity characteristics compared to surrounding rocks. By analyzing the electrical resistivity structure, the method can aid in identifying favorable geological formations or areas with potential for accumulation. See how MT helped to map closed-basin lithium-bearing brines.

2. Gravity surveys: Gravity measurements can help identify variations in density. Pegmatites sometimes have contrasting densities to the surrounding host rocks. Gravity surveys can detect these density variations and provide indications of potential target zones. See how gravity helped target generation for lithium-bearing pegmatites.

3. Magnetic surveys: Magnetic methods measure variations in the magnetic field caused by magnetic minerals in the subsurface. By mapping and interpreting magnetic anomalies, geophysicists can gain an understanding of the geology and structure present, which can help identify areas of interest. 

4. Drone mag UAV survey: This airborne geophysics technology offers low altitude surveying while acquiring high-resolution magnetic data at regular intervals for a fraction of the cost of the ground magnetics. 

5. Ground-Penetrating Radar (new service!): GPR uses high-frequency electromagnetic waves to penetrate the subsurface and detect discontinuities or anomalies. It can an image subsurface structures such as faults, fractures, and shear zones. 

These surveys provide valuable information about the geological structures, lithologies, and mineralization patterns, helping exploration companies optimize their drilling efforts and increase the chances of discovering economically viable lithium deposits. By implementing geophysical surveys as part of the exploration process, companies can make more informed decisions and allocate their drilling resources more efficiently, leading to cost savings.

For more information, contact us!