Identification of hydrothermal alteration spectral patterns in Uruguai Mine, Caçapava do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, using experimental reflectance spectra

Abstract

A series of spectral analysis was made with samples of Eopaleozoic sedimentary rocks affected by hydrothermal alteration associated with occurrences of copper in Uruguai Mine (Minas do Camaquã, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil). The database included spectral range visible, near infrared and shortwave (350-2500 nm) obtained from measurements of portable spectroradiometer ASD FieldSpec-3 High-Resolution. The mineralogical interpretation with spectral signatures was conducted with a support by The Spectral Geologist (TSG™ Pro) software, which allows a mineral phases discrimination present by comparing the absorption features in the mineral analysis with similar features of a spectral reference library spectrum. Spectral analysis from studied area samples allowed identified these main minerals: kaolinite, illite, chlorite, hematite and goethite. The mineral assemblages identified wereconsistent with hydrothermal alteration under conditions of low sulphur epithermal described in previous studies in this region. The results supported a potential use of reflectance spectroscopy in mineral exploration programs, especially in the early stages, even in areas with little favorable physiographic conditions.