Application of ASTER data for identification of alteration zones of XIV anomalies area, Bafq, Central Iran

We studied the applicability of data from the ASTER sensor for mapping hydrothermal alteration areas and lithological units associated with Kiruna type mineralization in arid and semi-arid regions. The XIV iron oxide anomalies in the Bafq provience in Central Iran was selected for a case study. The XIV anomalies occur in a northwest–southeast-trending fault zone that is characterized by the presence of a narrow zone of alteration–mineralization. Mineralogical evidences of Kiruna mineralization is mapped by spectral processing techniques. The alteration minerals in the XIV anomalies (the related iron oxide deposit) have been successfully detected by applying ratio images, relative band depth method, false color composite, minimum noise fraction, least square fit, pixel purity index techniques on ASTER imageries. Phyllic, argillic, propylitic, silicic alteration zones and in addition to areas of secondary Fe-oxide formation can be distinguished. Results indicates that ASTER data is capable of delineating alteration footprints of an Kiruna mineral system in deposit scale exploration.