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Use of high-resolution ground-penetrating radar in kimberlite delineation

January 1, 1997

High-resolution ground-penetrating radar (GPR) was used to image the near-surface extent of two exposed Late Cretaceous kimberlites intruded into lower Permian limestone and dolomite host rocks in northeast Kansas. Six parallel GPR profiles identify the margin of the Randolph 1 kimberlite by the up-bending and termination of limestone reflectors. Five radially-intersecting GPR profiles identify the elliptical margin of the Randolph 2 kimberlite by the termination of dolomite reflectors near or below the kimberlite's mushroom-shaped cap. These results suggest GPR may augment magnetic methods for the delineation of kimberlites or other forceful intrusions in a layered host rock where thick, conductive soil or shale is not present at the surface.

Publication Year 1997
Title Use of high-resolution ground-penetrating radar in kimberlite delineation
Authors J.M. Kruger, A. Martinez, P. Berendsen
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Mining Engineering
Index ID 70019519
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse