2024

Core
PreParation,
Logging,
Cutting &
SamPLing

Mubashir khan
Senior Geologist
Email: khattakmubashir@hotmail.com
Link den: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mubashir-khan-69276711b/
Core logging for Mineral exploration:

Mineral exploration is a critical aspect of the mining industry that requires precision and attention to detail to
ensure success. One of the key components of this process is logging core samples, which provide important
information about the mineral content of an ore body. In this article, we will discuss the basics of logging core
samples for mineral exploration and the importance of accurate and thorough sample logging.

The Importance of Logging Core Samples:

Logging core samples is an essential part of mineral exploration as it helps geologists and mining engineers
determine the size, shape, and mineral composition of an ore body. This information is crucial for making
informed decisions about the viability of a mining project and the best extraction methods. Core samples also
provide valuable data for geotechnical studies, resource estimates, and grade control.

The most important step during exploration core logging:

1. CORE PHOTOGRAPHY
Core photography is a valuable step during the core processing. Each core tray will be photographed after
samples are packed in core trays. This allows for easy assessment of logged lithologies, samples marked, and
other core features without the need to move the core back from storage.

2. Core Logging:
Rock Quality Designation (RQD)
Rock Quality Designation (RQD) is a modified core recovery percentage in which the lengths of all sound rock
core pieces over 10cm (100mm) in length are summed and divided by the length of the core run. Pieces of
core that are not hard and sound should not be included in the RQD evaluation even if they are at least 10 cm
in length. The purpose of the soundness requirement is to downgrade rock quality where the rock has been
altered and/or weakened by weathering.

Mubashir khan
Senior Geologist
khattakmubashir@hotmail.com
Link den: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mubashir-khan-69276711b/
3. Labelling the cutting line
In the last step before the core is moved inside for cutting, the cutting line will be marked. The purpose of the
cutting line is to guide the core cutters and to preserve as much information on the core as possible.

Mubashir khan
Senior Geologist
khattakmubashir@hotmail.com
Link den: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mubashir-khan-69276711b/
4. Core Cutting

5. Split Core Boxing

The sampling crew will write up core boxes/trays with the sample IDs provided by the geology team. Focus on
neat handwriting in large letters in the approximate bottom center of the core box lid (inner side). All core
boxes/trays are labeled with the following information in large, neat handwriting.

Mubashir khan
Senior Geologist
khattakmubashir@hotmail.com
Link den: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mubashir-khan-69276711b/
6. House Keeping

Figure 1Before

Figure 2 After

Mubashir khan
Senior Geologist
khattakmubashir@hotmail.com
Link den: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mubashir-khan-69276711b/
7. QAQC Core Split
QAQC is an essential component of every exploration campaign. Utmost care must be taken while completing
the above steps.

Figure 3 proper storing and labeling.

Figure 4 Proper storage with cushion to avoid mixing during transportation for proper QAQC.

Mubashir khan
Senior Geologist
khattakmubashir@hotmail.com
Link den: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mubashir-khan-69276711b/