Resumen

Hyperspectral core imaging is a consistent and accurate tool for identifying and mapping mineralogy in different styles of deposits and terrains. Imaging spectrometers (e.g., the Corescan HCI-4 system) collect mineralogical data over the surface of the sample, providing robust counting statistics and image data that capture information on mineral abundance, rock texture, and mineral assemblage. Data derived from hyperspectral imaging of drill core, combined with geological, geochemical and/or geophysical data can directly influence all aspects of the mining value chain. This includes early-stage exploration for lithology and alteration mapping, resource estimation, ore optimization, geometallurgical modelling and mine waste monitoring. Hydrothermal ore deposits, such as porphyry, epithermal and skarns, are particularly suitable for spectral analysis in the visible-near infrared (VNIR) to shortwave infrared (SWIR) range, due to the nature of key minerals, assemblages, and geochemical characteristics (Martini et al, 2015). Consistent, accurate and reliable mineral data can be successfully captured by hyperspectral imaging, extracting additional value from drill core to accurately characterize rock properties from the start of a drilling campaign.