Integrating geospatial data and multi-criteria analysis for mapping and evaluating the mineralization potential in the Dschang pluton (Western Cameroon)

Abstract Investigating lithological units and potential hydrothermal alteration areas using remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS) and statistical analysis are indeed an essential method for geological exploration. In this research, we developed an algorithm for the identification and delineation of rock units and hydrothermal alteration mineral deposits in the Dschang area using multiple set of criteria derived from Landsat 9 OLI and ASTER data using False Color Composites (FCC), Band Ratios (BRs), Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Spectral Angle Mapper (SAM), and fuzzy-logic overlay methods. The multiple methods applied on these datasets clearly identified orthogneiss, granites and basalts and showed iron-oxides, ferrous, hydroxyl-bearing/carbonate, argillic, phyllic and propylitic mineral properties. The fuzzy overlay map identified domains depending on their mineralization prospective, serving as fundamental tool for prospective mineral deposit evaluation investigation, which was produced by merging band ratios and PC's alteration markers labelled very good and excellent and encompasses 0.8–0.9 and 0.9-1.0 respectively. From the statistical analysis of geochemical data point of view, the calcic and alkaline-calcic, strongly metaluminous to hyperaluminous I-type character of the Dschang granitoids proves their parent magma was fertile for mineralization in Rare Earths, Cu, Sn, Mo, and Zn. In addition, lineaments analysis illustrated the presence of three structural directions in the Dschang area (ENE-WSW to NE-SW, N-S to NNE-SSW, and NW-SE). The innovative aspect of this research is the integration and processing of Landsat 9 OLI, ASTER, and statistical analysis of previous geochemical data and investigation data, which allows for the identification of rock units and potentially mineralized rock formations and defining exploration targets.