Tasmanian rare earth hyperspectral study - first in series

A new MRT study has demonstrated how hyperspectral scanning can improve understanding of clay-hosted rare earth element (REE) deposits and support resource evaluation.

MRT is developing a series of Hyperspectral Deposit Atlas publications to demonstrate the application of hyperspectral data to different mineral systems and deposit types in Tasmania. The first study in the series: Hyperspectral Deposit Atlas – Deep Leads, examines HyLogger-3 hyperspectral data from reverse circulation drilling at the Deep Leads clay-hosted REE deposit and integrates the results with available geochemical datasets. The study identifies clear links between REE enrichment and clay mineralogy, with REE enrichment at Deep Leads associated with poorly-crystalline kaolinite, while enrichment at the nearby Wind Break prospect is associated with montmorillonite.

The data also provides new insights into the weathering processes controlling REE distribution. A strong relationship between cerium and goethite reflects oxidative weathering processes that separate cerium from other rare earth elements, producing distinct zones of REE depletion and enrichment within the regolith profile. Analysis of both prospects identifies well-developed vertical zonation formed during prolonged weathering. These mineralogical patterns help explain how REEs are distributed and concentrated within the regolith and provide important information for geological modelling and orebody understanding.

This research highlights the value of hyperspectral data for characterising clay mineralogy and identifying mineralogical controls on REE enrichment. The results demonstrate how HyLogger can contribute to resource evaluation, orebody knowledge and the development of mineral processing strategies for emerging rare earth element projects.