Mineral exploration and environmental impact assessment in the Jabal Hamadat Area, Central Eastern Desert, Egypt, using remote sensing and airborne radiometric data

Abstract

Mineral exploration is essential for economic growth, but it must be conducted with careful consideration of health and environmental impacts. This study focuses on mapping potential mineralization areas and evaluating environmental consequences in the Jabal Hamadat area. By integrating ASTER, Landsat-9 and airborne radiometric data, the study includes: (1) identification of alteration mineral indicators including iron oxides (gossanized zone), chlorite (propylitic zone), kaolinite, sericite, montmorillonite/illite (argillic zone), and alunite (advanced argillic zone) via the Band Ratio (BR) technique; (2) preparation of a lineament density map through an automated lineament extraction technique; and (3) identification of areas with elevated F-parameter values exceeding 10. Ten areas with high mineralization potential are delineated for further exploration. Additionally, the study assesses environmental radiation exposure, finding that certain areas exceed the safe radiation limit of 1.0 mSv/year. Peak radiation levels range from 0.75 to 1.25 mSv/year, with mining sites showing the highest readings at 1.25 mSv/year and 0.64 mSv/year. These findings highlight elevated radiological hazards, emphasizing the need for comprehensive monitoring and effective mitigation strategies to protect human health and minimize environmental impact. The methodology's success in this area indicates its potential applicability to other mining areas, contributing to enhanced safety and environmental protection.