THE ROLE OF GROUND PENETRATING RADAR IN EXPLORATION OF SAND DEPOSITS

Exploration of deposits of interest in areas not owned by a mining company is often a complicated and time-consuming process, mostly due to negotiations with landowners to allow for access and exploratory drilling. In these situations, the use of geophysics can be beneficial. Geophysical surveys are often less intrusive and less expensive than exploratory drilling and can be conducted along existing public roads. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) surveys were recently used as part of an exploration effort for silica sand. Using GPR, exploratory drilling could be minimized and focused only on interesting areas. By combining GPR data, existing borehole data, and geological mapping, a three-dimensional model of the sand deposits could be developed. Using this data, the area of interest could be narrowed down significantly, thereby saving both time and money. This paper describes our methodology, the strengths and weaknesses of the methods used, and our conclusions.