Remote sensing data provide a useful piece of information for initial identification of alteration zones, litho­logical units and structures in relation to mineralization, saving time and cost. In this research, silicic, argillic and propylitic alteration zones with gold mineralization in Taftan area in Sistan and Baluchestan province (Iran) were identified by thermal infrared (TIR), shortwave infrared (SWIR) and visible-near infrared (VNIR) bands of Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) and Landsat-8 data. Detecting altered and mineralized zones of epithermal gold were conducted using a conventional hybrid method of band ratio in false coloured composite (BR-FCC), and a new hybrid method including, constrained energy minimi­zation in false coloured composite (CEM-FCC). The hybrid methods of the BR-FCC (BRs in RGB) identified the silicic area and places, containing clay and secondary iron minerals. Furthermore, the advanced argillic, argillic and propylitic alteration zones detected and derived in altered areas specifically to the northwest of Taftan, in Kharestan and Bidester deposits using the hybrid methods of the CEM-FCC (CEMs in RGB). Results of image processing showed two new prospective altered places to the northeast of Kharestan deposit and to the northwest of Taftan volcano.

Keywords: Epithermal Gold, ASTER, Landsat-8, CEM-FCC, Taftan area, Iran

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0169136821003838