DC resistivity and gravimetry to improve analysis and assessment in phosphate exploration: Serra da Bodoquena, Western Mato Grosso do Sul state – Brazil.

Phosphatic zones with high exploration potential were identified in the mid-western area near Bonito municipality, Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil. This resource consists of a significant matter in reactive natural phosphate production representing an important element to increase agriculture in the country. The present study proposes an unusual geophysical approach as a method to identify and delineate rocks related to P 2 O 5 enrichment in the Ressaca target located in Bonito municipality, Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil. DC resistivity and gravimetric methods integrated with detailed surface geologic mapping were applied to detect lithologic heterogeneities near-surface and in-depth. The materials and their respective physical properties are related to weathered alteration zones (supergene) and phosphatic dolomitic breccias associated with the highest phosphatic concentration zones according to previous geologic prospective surveys. The resistivity and gravimetry results along with E -W oriented profiles detected significant anomalies concentrated in a zone in the mid-portion of the acquisition area. Resistivity, Bouguer, and Residual data integration allowed us to define circular features related to the enriched breccias and supergene ore. Results also define a near-surface concentration zone representing a useful tool to assess and help the subsurface analysis leading to an increase in the prospective survey planning (drilling) and the company's budget. • A valuable tool to enhance the prospection of supergene phosphate. • Improvement of ore characterization in the weathered superficial zone. • More effectiveness to further drill hole and geochemical planning. • Cost-effectiveness approach in P 2 O 5 enriched rocks assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]