Simpson Geoservices - Exploration Services

Typical targeting criteria that could be used for local targeting of VMS deposit. Modified after Mitchinson, Mira Geoscience (2012).

3D Geological Modelling

Geology is a 3D science-therefore it makes sense to display all relevant data within a 3D platform to help us understand the subsurface in a way 2D representations cannot. Display of data within a 3D platform allows data to be analysed and compared spatially, with geological modelling incorporating and testing pre-existing understandings. Successful geological modelling should incorporate geological, geophysical, and geochemical data, to ensure the geological model is common to all disciplines and additionally, all targeting criteria should be built into the model. Utilising statistical prediction of mineralisation, quantitative mineral targeting can then be carried out.

Tough financial conditions facing explorers mean efficient exploration targeting is paramount. Utilising advanced 3D modelling software, I combine the latest exploration techniques with my interpretation skills to define top quality targets. I work collaboratively with my clients to deliver meaningful, client driven models that serve as the basis for mineral targeting.

For more information on model construction please click here.

Field Services

Traditionally many exploration companies have been poor at collecting quality field observations (whether this be field mapping or downhole logging), often assigning this task to the graduate geologist. In many cases this geologist has limited understanding of the mineralisation style they are exploring for, exploration objectives, or availability of all applicable exploration data, resulting in a compromised geological interpretation.

Prior to commencing an exploration program we ensure a comprehensive understanding of the mineralization style, exploration objectives, as well as availability of all exploration data for a region. We undertake field mapping and downhole logging to ensure accurate data capture, and use this data to construct 3D geological interpretations of the highest quality and consistent with all available data. Field work and geological interpretation is typically carried out as the exploration program is undertaken to ensure optimal drill rig placement, with work carried out at a variety of scales, whether it be a couple of drillholes, an entire deposit, or regional mapping, we have the expertise to ensure your exploration objectives are achieved.

The progressive stages of an exploration targets development. To be successful, targets need to be drill-tested and advanced to the next exploration phase. There is a strong focus on turning over targets as effectively as possible by drill-testing and progressing targets up the pipeline in a timely manner.

Project Management

We undertake exploration project management on behalf of clients by either complementing their existing management team or acting as the sole management provider delivering low cost, high value service.

We have the expertise and experience to construct, implement, and manage exploration projects. We bring knowledge from a variety of scales and multiple disciplines (geology, geophysics and geochemistry), to form robust targeting models incorporating multiple exploration criteria. By utilising the latest techniques and interpretation skills we define a focused pathway towards discovery of your next mineral resource.

Geochemistry

A huge range of geochemical data can be gathered during the exploration, development and mining phases of an operation. Surprisingly, most companies fail to utilize the full range of information available from this geochemical data. This geochemical data can then be viewed in 3D space and using advanced data interrogation and interpretation techniques we can carry out robust geological modelling.

Modern assay techniques including ICP-MS allow for more than 40 elements to be routinely assayed with detection limits significantly lower than average crustal abundance levels. In addition to measuring ore metals and pathfinders, the immobile elements in the assay package allow for geochemical characterisation of the host rocks, and the major elements allow quantification of the alteration mineralogy.

Typically client datasets contain a variety of geochemical assay techniques with varying detection limits. We typically normalize geochemical data into geological domains and level the data according to assay techniques etc. By viewing this data in a 3D environment any anomalous (or spurious) data can then be easily identified.

Geophysics

Gravity and Magnetics

Data Import and Visualisation

QAQC

Seismic

Trend removal

Electromagnetic techniques

Gridding

Magnetotellurics

Fourier filtering (processing)

and other techniques

Forward modelling and inversion

Through advanced geophysical data analysis, processing, forward modelling and inversion we can achieve geologically meaningful 3D modelling. The most desirable model is a geologically constrained one, which is constrained by known geological information and associated physical property measurements. To gain the greatest value from geophysical data requires an interpretation that is consistent with all other disciplines to ensure the interpretation is not created in isolation.

Mineral Targeting

Successful 3D targeting requires knowledge of how to manage and interpret complex datasets, covering multiple disciplines. With our advanced targeting software we carry out quantitative mineral targeting, utilizing multiple exploration criteria, combined with advanced 3D –GIS functionality, to develop targets based on your exploration criteria and objectives.

Typically exploration criteria such as lithology, structure, geochemistry and geophysics are used to create predictor maps that represent aspects of the particular system being targeted. Predictor maps are made up of two or more classes that will have either a positive or negative association with mineralisation. The probability of an economic deposit occurring in a particular class can be determined by expert opinion (subject to bias), or statistically calculated using data driven techniques such as weights of evidence.

Geological Services