Geochemical Alteration Mapping Associated With Radioactive Mineralisation Using GIS and Analytic Hierarchy Process ( AHP ): A Case Study From Central Eastern Desert, Egypt

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study develops an integrated Geochemical Alteration Mapping (GAM) framework for the Wadi Kab Amiri area in Egypt, utilising Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The primary objective is to identify prospective zones of radioactive mineralisation by synthesising geological, geochemical and remote sensing data. Through the development of geochemical alteration maps, the research identifies key alteration zones and locates specific sites with high mineralisation potential. The research focuses on the Precambrian basement rocks of the region, which have been significantly influenced by tectonic events, to generate mineral potential maps that prioritise areas with the greatest mineralisation potential. By analysing the distribution of major oxides and trace elements, the study identifies specific geochemical markers diagnostic of hydrothermal alteration. Key indicators utilised include Na 2 O, CaO, K 2 O, FeO and MgO, along with critical ratios such as Ca/Sr, K/Rb, Rb/Sr, Fe/Mg, CaO/K 2 O, K 2 O/Na 2 O and Mg/Fe. These parameters were weighted through AHP to model the behaviour of elements and predict the location of radioactive mineralisation. The integrated GIS–AHP approach effectively combines geological, structural, geochemical and alteration datasets into a unified mineral potential model. The predicted high‐potential zones correspond well with known radioactive mineral occurrences. The findings highlight significant potential for uranium mineralisation within the study area, particularly localised within late orogenic granites and episyenite rocks. This research confirms that the combination of AHP and GIS serves as an effective, scalable tool for mineral exploration in complex crystalline terrains.