Seismic imaging across fault systems in the Abitibi greenstone belt – an analysis of pre- and post-stack migration approaches in the Chibougamau area, Quebec, Canada

Abstract. Two high-resolution seismic reflection profiles acquired north and south of Chibougamau, located in the northeast Abitibi subprovince Canada, help understand historic volcanically hosted massive sulfide (VMS) deposits hydrothermal Cu–Au mineralization found there. Major faults crossed by include Barlow fault Doda Guercheville south, all targets this study that seeks to determine spatial relationships with a known metal endowment area. Common-offset DMO corrections common-offset pre-stack time migrations (PSTMs) were considered. Irregularities trace midpoint distribution resulting from crooked geometry both their relative contribution PSTM methods illumination assessed context complex subsurface architecture To scrutinize contribution, images generated for offset ranges 0–9 km using increments 3 km. Migration out-of-plane reflections used cross-dip element analysis accurately estimate dip. The imaging shows thickening upper-crustal rocks near zones along profiles. In northern section, key geological structures identified two diffraction sets imaged within zone represent potential future exploration. section rather complicated systems. observed as subhorizontal reflector connects steeply dipping reflector. dips subvertical shallow crust but set at depth. Nearby gold showings suggest these may channel concentrate mineralizing fluids.