Keynote speaker: Branko Corner

Geophysics and geochemistry are powerful tools for peering into the subsurface and gaining insights into Earth's processes. Geophysics involves the study of the physical properties of rocks and their response to different energy sources, such as seismic waves, electromagnetic fields, and gravity. Geophysical techniques such as seismic reflection and refraction, ground-penetrating radar, geomagnetism, gravity and radiometrics and geo-electrical provide information about subsurface structures, rock properties, and fluid distributions. On the other hand, geochemistry focuses on the chemical composition and behavior of elements and compounds in rocks, soils, water, and gases. Analytical techniques like mass spectrometry, X-ray fluorescence, and stable isotope analysis reveal valuable information about the sources, transport, and alteration of materials. Integrated approaches in geosciences bring together geophysics and geochemistry to create a comprehensive understanding of subsurface processes. By combining these techniques, researchers can unravel complex geological phenomena, identify mineral and energy resources, assess environmental impacts, and aid in the exploration and management of natural resources. The synergy between geophysics and geochemistry provides a powerful means to uncover the hidden secrets of the Earth's subsurface.

ST04 -S01- Geophysics and Seismology

Conveners: Bufelo Lushetile & Mako Sitali 

Geophysical methods is applicable to various disciplines which includes mineral and hydrocarbon exploration, geological mapping, hydrogeology, geohazards and environmental geophysics. This session will allow promotion and presentation of scientific results related to recent advances in geophysical methods and related science. 

National and Regional Seismic Networks has played an important role in monitoring natural earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and anthropogenic seismicity. These networks serve as data archives enabling sharing of data between seismic operational centres to advance scientific research. With increased seismological instruments and hence the density of networks, this has led to a generation of big datasets, new monitoring instrumentations, and new processing methods are leading to breakthroughs in many fields of seismology. Conversional seismological processing is not preferred anymore because of the advent of machine-learning-based methods for seismic data analysis, as they handle big datasets and detect at least 10x the number of earthquakes as current operational best practice. 

This session focuses on the important roles played in advancing scientific studies related to local and regional seismic hazards, integrating new technological advances in data acquisition and processing, new processing algorithms, hazard assessments, and outreach initiatives. In addition, topics in geophysics will include paleomagnetism, near-surface geophysics, geophysical approaches in hydrocarbon and mineral exploration, environmental geophysics, current developments on potential method and any new approaches in other geophysical methods.

ST04 -S02- Advances in geochemical exploration techniques, data interpretation and integration 

Conveners: Filadelphia Mbingeneeko, Badumisa Sibolile & Ulf Kasuto 

Decades of extensive research on exploring for mineral deposits in Africa has led to major breakthroughs and some challenges in geochemical methodologies. Nonetheless, advances in specialised geochemical exploration techniques, data interpretation, and integration have greatly enhanced the ability to explore and discover mineral deposits.

Modern geochemical exploration methods utilize specialised and highly sensitive analytical instruments, which enables for rapid and precise measurements of major, minor and trace elements in varying sample media. Data interpretation techniques, including multivariate statistical analysis, geostatistics, and machine learning algorithms, allow for efficient and effective assessment of geochemical data sets. Integration of multiple data sets, such as; geochemical data with geological and geophysical data sets, such as airborne geophysics and remote sensing, enhances the understanding of subsurface processes, identification of prospective exploration targets, and reduces exploration risks.   

Hence, the session focuses on highlighting innovative and modern geochemical methodologies applied to mineral exploration, geochemical data interpretation and integration at local and regional scale.