Utilization of airborne geophysical data and remote sensing to identify radioactive and hydrothermal alteration zones in the East Qena area, Central Eastern Desert, Egypt

The central purpose of the present study is to pinpoint radioactive anomalies, unravel the pathways of uranium migration, map zones of hydrothermal alteration, and dissect the underlying geological structures within the East Qena area. This is achieved by applying airborne geophysical data and remote sensing techniques. The East Qena area was specifically chosen for its diverse rock units, encompassing basement rocks, especially granitic rocks, and crucial sedimentary formations like the phosphate and shale (Duwi, Dakhla, and Quseir formations). The airborne gamma-ray spectrometric data reveal radioactive zones with a relatively high content of potassium, uranium, and thorium. Ratio maps of eU/eTh and eU/K show significant uranium mineralization potential in the western part, particularly in the Esna, Dakhla, Duwi formations. It distinctly delineates the migrated uranium (Um) and F-parameter zones concentrated over the Duwi, Quseir, and Dakhla formations in the western part, as well as their presence over alkali feldspar granites in the eastern and northeastern parts of the area under study. Furthermore, remote sensing (RS) data have been instrumental in identifying the hydrothermal alteration zones, mapping lineament density, and revealing the dominant surface structures. The structural lineaments derived from the RS data and geological map have unveiled five main trends: NW-SE, NNW-SSE, N-S, NNE-SSW, and NE-SW. These trends likely play an essential role in the existence and distribution of radioactive anomalies, side by side with rock composition. Notably, the analysis of airborne magnetic data indicates that the NNW-SSE fault related to the Red Sea rift system is the predominant trend in the study area. Overall, this multifaceted approach provides insights into the radioactive mineralization and structural framework of the study area.