The Role of 3D Earth Models In Seismic Reflection Methods Applied to Mineral Exploration

Over the past five years, the use of seismic reflection methods for mineral exploration has increased significantly. Although, the overall industry knowledge is still based on very few surveys and each new survey can be considered unique. There is no pre-established quick recipe when it comes to using seismic reflection methods in the search for the next generation of deep ore bodies. The complexity of the geological settings hosting mineralization can be high making the usage of 3D earth models for the purpose of survey design and data interpretation mandatory. The 3D earth model is at the core of a proposed stepwise approach for applying seismic reflection methods for mineral exploration. Such an approach has been successfully used by Kennecott Minerals for nickel sulphide exploration at the Eagle deposit in Michigan, USA. A 3D earth model attributed with physical rock properties was used for survey design optimization, advanced processing techniques and data interpretation. Integration and 3D visualization of complex seismic results with conventional exploration data sets lead to a better understanding of the contribution of seismic reflection methods for deep mineral exploration programs.