Lineament Length and Density Analyses Based on the Segment Tracing Algorithm: A Case Study of the Gaosong Field in Gejiu Tin Mine, China

This study used the Segment Tracing Algorithm (STA) to extract lineaments from remotely sensed images. A computer program was then written to calculate the lineament densities and lengths. In Gaosong field, 3,233 lineaments were extracted based on a 200 m × 200 m grid size. The results indicate that most lineaments lengths are between 30 m and 50 m, and the number of lineaments within each cell ranges from 1 to 6. Areas with high distributions exist on both sides of the central region. According to the contour map of lineament length, the maximum lineament length is 380 m, and the minimum length is 30 m. The contours mainly extend in two directions, including NE and NW trends. This is consistent with the prominent NE and NW strike faults that prevail in the mining area. The results are similar to those obtained in the Machishui ore block, which has become a mine production area. High values of lineament length and density in the contour map of Gaosong field may be associated with hydrothermal tin mineralization in the study area. The results of this study potentially provide a new approach to mineral exploration in the early stage of geological prospecting.