Looking at the chemical components of the surface and near-surface is quite useful as they are indicators of underlying valuable accumulations of metallic and non-metallic materials. Most commonly soil and rock samples are collected to find out about an area’s geochemistry. It provides signatures from the nearby rock formations that can be interpreted in ore deposit models: some can be ranked as exploration targets for further investigation by trenching or drilling and others can be downgraded or abandoned. Bedrock samples may offer the best indications of valuable mineralization at that very location, whereas metals in soil samples may have been transported from their source.

A relatively newly developed geochemical sampling and analytical technology, called MMI (Mobile Metallic Ion), in soil geochemistry measures the metallic ions that have been transported to the near-surface environment. A simple protocol of sample collection and analysis ensures standardization of data. Terracad has conducted MMI sampling surveys that demonstrated direct correlation of MMI values with mineralization and has prepared graphic plots that superimpose drill core and underground sampling data with MMI data for its clients.

Terracad is actively investigating the application of Enzyme Leach geochemistry and will be conducting comparative soil sample surveys using both EL and MMI. If the results of our research are satisfactory and cost effective, the method will be offered to clients to help in the selection of geochemical methods.