The impact of seismic nodes on enhancing subsurface imaging for mining — A case study over the Tamarack Nickel field

In the past, the use of 3D reflection seismic acquisition for mapping ore bodies in mining exploration has been limited. This can be attributed to concerns about its applicability in geologically complex, hardrock environments and the high cost of conventional 3D acquisition systems. However, recent years have seen a shift, with the introduction of smaller, more cost-effective nodal systems, prompting the mining industry to re-evaluate its potential. There is an increasing interest in utilizing 3D seismic from the initial exploration phase through to the advanced extraction planning on mature sites. We show how velocity models derived from first-break refraction tomography for one particular high-density survey assist in the 3D mapping of the overburden/bedrock contact of a magmatic intrusion and provide extra detail to the extent of the low velocity ore bodies beneath. The potential for cross-hole tomography surveys to be complimented by first arrival data from a surface deployed 3D grid of continuously recording sensors is also examined.