A comparative study of the prospecting for hidden uranium deposits by applying geo-electrochemical method in China and Australia

The geo-electrochemical method is a new technology in search for deep concealed deposits. With an electrical field, active metal ions move into special receivers. Electrolyte in the receiver is analyzed. Metal ion anomalies which may be related to concealed ore deposits can guide prospecting. Geo-electrochemical extraction method, soil ionic conductivity method and soil heat-released mercury method were applied to the prospecting for uranium deposits, which are located in the Huxi ore district in Jiangxi Province of China and the Four Mile East mine in Australia. Combined with different geological backgrounds and geo-chemical features, the authors studied practical application effect of the integrated technology, and put forward an ideal geo-electrochemical anomaly pattern of the hydrothermal uranium ore vein. The result shows that the application range of the method is suitable not only for volcanic type uranium deposits but also for sandstone-type uranium deposits. The prospecting result is satisfactory.