RADIOMETRIC SURVEYS

“The use of gamma-ray spectrometry as a tool for mapping radioelement concentrations has found widespread acceptance in diverse fields. The method has benefitted from continuing advances in instrumentation, field procedures, and calibration and data processing procedures. Gamma-ray spectrometry is widely used for environmental mapping, geological mapping, and mineral exploration.” International Atomic Energy Agency, TECDOC 1363

Airborne gamma-ray spectrometry is a surface mapping technique, penetrating approximately only the top 50 cm of the earth’s surface. The basic purpose of radiometric surveying is to determine the absolute or relative amounts of Uranium (U), Thorium (Th), and Potassium (K) in the surface rocks and soils, providing a guide to the distribution of rock types.