Reflectance spectroscopy to validate remote sensing data/algorithms for satellite-based lithium (Li) exploration (Central East Portugal)

The acquisition of field data plays an important role in the calibration of the remotely sensed data, especially when combined with reflectance spectroscopy studies. The study area of this work is the Fregeneda-Almendra pegmatite field (spreading from Portugal to Spain) where different lithium (Li)-pegmatites are known. Several image processing techniques were applied to satellite images for Li exploration in the region, including machine learning classifiers. However, these algorithms identified several zones as Li-pegmatites false positives. Taking this into account, the following objectives were delineated: (i) validate the training areas used in previous studies and collect field data for training area refinement; (ii) assess the reason for the false positives previously obtained through field surveys. For that, various outcropping lithologies (Li-pegmatite, metasediments, granite) were sampled for laboratory spectral analysis. The spectral signature of Li-pegmatite was compared with the remaining outcropping lithologies. Also, the spectral signature of the sampled false positive areas was confronted with the spectra of Li-minerals. It was possible to conclude that these two classes present similar water/hydroxide and Al–OH-related features. The sampled granitic and metasedimentary rocks also presented water and/or hydroxide absorption features that can lead to some spectral confusion. However, Li-pegmatites can be discriminated from the remaining lithologies either in the training areas and the false positive areas due to the absence of iron-related absorption features and to the distinct reflectance magnitudes.