A review of selected ground penetrating radar applications to mineral resource evaluations

Since the commercialisation of ground penetrating radar (GPR) in the 1970s, the technology has been relegated to niche applications in the mining industry. Advances in radar technology, such as flexible collinear antennas and the integration of live differential GPS positioning, have spurred GPR's acceptance in recent years as a standard exploration method for a number of deposit types. Provided herein is an overview of commercialised GPR applications for surface mineral resource evaluations, covering examples of alluvial channels, nickel and bauxitic laterites, iron ore deposits, mineral sands, coal and kimberlites.

► GPR is gaining acceptance as a common exploration tool for a number of deposit types. ► Recent developments with in-line towed antennas allow rapid coverage and 3D imaging. ► Depths of more than 40 m can be acquired in areas with favourable electrical properties. ► Interpretations generally rely on variations in texture rather than linear reflections.