NATURE OF PROJECT: ECONOMIC GEOLOGY
DURATION: 4 MONTHS
DURATION: APRIL – AUGUST 2019
BACKGROUND AND METHODOLOGY
Geomapping Technology Sdn. Bhd. was appointed to conduct geological assessment for dimension stone potential at Gua Musang, Kelantan. The objectives of this project are to identify the potential products of the rock reserve and to calculate the volume estimation of the potential dimension stone reserve.
- Field Geological Mapping
- Geophysical Resistivity Survey
- Rock Coring
- Laboratory Testing
Field geological mapping was carried out to collect geological data and demarcation of rock boundary in the geological map. Subsurface information was confirmed by electrical resistivity survey and borehole drilling. Rock samples collected from field mapping and rock coring were sent to Mineral Research Centre (PPM) and Department of Mineral and Geoscience (JMG) for physical and geochemical testing respectively. Petrographic analysis and heavy mineral concentrate analysis were performed in National University of Malaysia (UKM).
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Three types of rocks were identified: i) marble, ii) dolomitic marble, and iii) hornfels. The lithologies were confirmed by the laboratory testing and analysis. Each type of rock exhibits different visual aesthetic that are potentially viable for dimension stone products. Four categories of potential dimension stone have been identified: i) milky white marble, ii) light grey marble, iii) dark grey dolomitic marble, and iv) green hornfels.
Figure 1: Four types of potential dimension stone products.
Estimated volume for each potential dimension stone was calculated based on geological interpretation and analysis.
Figure 2: Digital Elevation Map (DEM) used to calculate the volume of the rock reserves.
CONCLUSION
This site is considered to be economic for potential dimension stone mining purposes. Progressive geological assessments are recommended during quarrying and operational phases.
