Muscovite ore exploration using 3‐D Euler deconvolution and total horizontal gradient of magnetic anomalies in Eleeku, Northcentral, Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract The exploration of muscovite‐rich pegmatites within the Nigerian Basement Complex is often hindered by limited surface exposure and insufficient subsurface data, leading to challenges in accurately delineating mineral‐bearing structures. Traditional mapping techniques fall short in resolving the geometry, depth, and orientation of concealed mineralized veins, necessitating the application of advanced geophysical methods. This study applied high‐resolution aeromagnetic data to investigate subsurface structures associated with muscovite mineralization in the Eleeku area, located in the southwestern segment of topographic sheet 223 of Ilorin, within the Basement Complex in Nigeria. Data analysis and interpretation were conducted using the Total Horizontal Gradient and 3‐D Euler Deconvolution techniques within the Oasis Montaj and ArcGIS software environments. Fault orientations and dip characteristics were determined by superimposing the highest peaks of the total horizontal derivative on the tilt angle zero‐value contours, while structural index 0 in Euler Deconvolution was used to detect lithological contacts. The interpretation revealed fifteen fault structures trending in longitudinal, latitudinal, NW–SE, and NE–SW directions. Among these, four were identified as significant conduits for muscovite mineralization, with dip angles ranging from 65° to 82° and maximum depths reaching approximately 600 m. The deepest faults, with depths up to 1200 m, were located in Gudugba and Aboto Alfa communities, whereas shallower mineral‐bearing zones (300–400 m) were observed in Eleeku, Igbona, and Oloro. Notably, the NE–SW trending faults closely coincide with surface mica occurrences, confirming their relevance as mineralized structures.