Aeromagnetic Data Analysis for Sustainable Structural Mapping of the Missiakat Al Jukh Area in the Central Eastern Desert: Enhancing Resource Exploration with Minimal Environmental Impact

Mahmoud Elhussein, Moataz Kh. Barakat, Dimitrios E. Alexakis, Nasir Alarifi, Elsayed Said Mohamed, Dmitry E. Kucher, Mohamed S. Shokr () and Mohamed A. S. Youssef
Additional contact information
Mahmoud Elhussein: Geophysics Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
Moataz Kh. Barakat: Geology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
Dimitrios E. Alexakis: Laboratory of Geoenvironmental Science and Environmental Quality Assurance, Department of Civil Engineering, School of Engineering, University of West Attica, 250 Thivon & P. Ralli Str., GR 12241 Athens, Greece
Nasir Alarifi: Geology and Geophysics Department, College of Science King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
Elsayed Said Mohamed: National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences, Cairo 1564, Egypt
Dmitry E. Kucher: Department of Environmental Management, Institute of Environmental Engineering, RUDN University, 6 Miklukho-Maklaya St., Moscow 117198, Russia
Mohamed S. Shokr: Soil and Water Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
Mohamed A. S. Youssef: Nuclear Materials Authority, P.O. Box 530, Maadi, Cairo 11381, Egypt

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 20, 1-22

Abstract: This study integrates aeromagnetic data with geological information to develop a consistent interpretation of both shallow and deep structural frameworks at various depths in the Missiakat Al Jukh area, located in the Central Eastern Desert, Egypt. The research begins by processing reduced-to-the-north magnetic pole (RTP) anomalies, using Fast Fourier Transformation (FFT) techniques to distinguish between local residual structures and broader regional features. This multi-scale approach enables a more detailed understanding of the geological complexity in the region, revealing its subsurface structures. Advanced geophysical methods such as upward continuation, Euler deconvolution, source parameter imaging (SPI), and global particle swarm optimization (GPSO) were applied to further refine the determination of structural depths, offering critical insights into the distribution and orientation of geological features at varying depths. The study reveals dominant structural orientations aligned in the NNW-SSE, ENE-WSW, north–south, and east–west directions, reflecting the region’s complex tectonic history. This research is of great importance in terms of sustainability. By delivering detailed subsurface maps and providing more accurate depth estimates of basement rocks (between 0.6 and 1.3 km), it contributes to sustainable resource exploration in the region. A better understanding of the geological structure helps minimize the environmental impact of exploration by reducing unnecessary drilling and concentrating efforts on areas with higher potential. Additionally, the use of non-invasive geophysical techniques supports the transition toward more environmentally conscious exploration practices. The integration of these advanced methods promotes a more sustainable approach to mineral and resource extraction, which is crucial for balancing economic growth with environmental preservation in geologically sensitive areas. Ultimately, this work provides a thorough geological interpretation that not only aids future exploration efforts but also aligns with the global push for sustainable and eco-friendly resource management.

Keywords: RTP; FFT; GPSO; SPI; upward continuation; Euler deconvolution; sustainable eco-friendly resources; exploration; potential (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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