In 2019, to explore a potential vanadiferous titanomagnetite (VTM) deposit, we performed an aeromagnetic survey with a helicopter over a target site that contains a magnetite mine (Fig. 1). Through this exploration, we were able to successfully identify the magnetite mine and found potential magnetite ore bodies (Fig. 2). To quantitatively estimate the amount of VTM deposit, based on airborne survey results, four boreholes of total depth of 1,200 m were designed and drilled; then, the drilled rock cores were investigated for verification (Fig. 3). Both presence of low-grade orebody and geologic signatures of magmatic differentiation were identified by this study, though high-grade orebody has not been discovered yet. We are trying to enhance our capability of mineral exploration by applying new technologies such as drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), a 3D geological modelling platform, and machine learning. These efforts will elevate current mineral exploration technology to the next level.
Contact: Bona Kim (bnkim@kigam.re.kr)
