Spectral Geoscience Pty Ltd specialise in the characterisation of mineralogy in grab samples, drill core and drill chips using hyperspectral logging techniques. The results add value to a range of applications in the global exploration and mining industry by providing the rapid, non-destructive characterisation of alteration and host rock mineralogy to support decision making, reduce risk and maximise efficiencies.

Spectral Geoscience also provide sales, support and training of the CSIRO-developed software, “The Spectral Geologist” – TSG to empower geologists in generating the mineralogical characterisation of their drill core etc in the field or on-site.

What is hyperspectral core logging?

Hyperspectral core logging is based on the principles of infrared spectroscopy, a technique that captures  infrared reflectance data from geological media (e.g. drill core, chips, grab samples) in hundreds of narrow, contiguous wavelength channels across the infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.

The resulting spectral signature (spectrum) represents the constituent mineralogy in the sample. The TSG software streamlines the mineralogical interpretation of thousands of infrared spectra simultaneously.

Spectral Geoscience works with hyperspectral infrared data collected from a range of spectrometers including ASD’s TerraSpec and Halo, oreXpress spectrometers, PIMA and HyLogger systems.

Hyperspectral core logging is rapid, non-destructive and requires no (or minimal) sample preparation. Drill core or chips can be spectrally measured in their original trays ensuring minimal handling.

Hyperspectral core logging is complimentary to traditional core logging and readily integrates with ancillary datasets. Geologists are empowered with new insights and consistent, objective  mineralogical logging across multiple drill holes.

How do we identify the minerals?

Using the TSG software, mineral identification is based on the recognition of diagnostic absorption features occurring at specific wavelengths. The features are created by the differential absorption of infrared radiation responding to the bending, stretching and vibrations of molecular bonds within a mineral lattice.

Results include objective, consistent down-hole logs of systematically acquired infrared-active mineralogy and associated parameters (e.g. crystallinity, intensity/relative abundance and compositional substitution) for characterising the regolith, host rock and alteration associated with ore deposits.

The interoperable mineral logs deliver repeatable benefits across a range of applications in the mining chain, from exploration to resource development and geometallurgical flowsheet planning.