Estimating volumes and tonnage using GPR data

This work presents the use of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) data in the determination of overburden volumes and tonnage in mining context. The geophysical method of GPR was used in three distinct areas, located, inside the old Bejanca Mining Complex (parish of Queirã, Viseu District, Portugal), to determine and delineated the soil and sediment/bedrock interface. The interpretation of GPR data, and its correlation with borehole data, allowed the successful detection of this interface and the estimate of the volume and tonnage of the overburden sediments and soils. For this characterization, three-dimensional imaging methodologies were applied to create a volumetric reconstruction. The GPR system was found to be an effective tool for delineating the bedrock interface as did three-dimensional imaging methodologies in calculating the volume and tonnage for each study area. It provides not only a detailed view of the subsurface but allows the information to be gathered quickly and easily. It can also help companies revise volume and tonnage calculations and help them estimate the volume of potential new deposits as well as providing a greater financial control. Furthermore, it can be used to plan and develop prospective areas with little environmental impact.