Application of Multi-fractal Modeling and Multivariate Statistical Analysis to Stream Sediment Data for Assessing the Mineralization Potential in the Akpet area, Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

The search for new mineral resources in southeastern Nigeria is necessary for supporting industrial growth and advancing sustainable resource development. The Akpet area is a prospective area for economic mineral exploration. This study applies multivariate statistical analysis and multifractal modeling to stream sediment geochemistry in the Akpet area, southeastern Nigeria, with the aim of assessing its mineralization potential. A total of fifteen (15) stream sediment samples were systematically collected from active stream and river channels and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Geochemical results revealed enrichment of elements such as Cr, Cs, Rb, Zr, Hf, Th, and U relative to upper continental crust (UCC). In contrast, Co, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, V, Sc, and Sr were depleted. Pearson correlation and principal component analysis (PCA) reveals association of U–Th–Zr–Mo, reflecting possible radioactive mineralization. Complementary multifractal concentration–number (C–N) modeling distinguished three geochemical populations; low background, high background, and weakly anomalous for Ba, Cu, Mo, Ni, Pb, Th, U, and Zn. Anomalous thresholds were highest for Mo, U, and Th, reflecting possible radioactive mineralization in the study area.

Keywords: Geochemistry, fractal modeling, Statistics, Mineralization, Akpet, Southeastern Nigeria.