This paper presents the results of the experimental geochemical prospecting studies conducted in the Barlo mine area by the Bureau of Mines during the summer months of 1961.

The Barlo mineral deposits occur as disseminations and veinlets of pyrite and chalcopyrite in two conformable units of basalt flow, and as massive replacement bodies of pyrite-chalcopyrite and sphalerite confined to the upper unit of the basalt. Soil samples were taken at 25-meter intervals and at an average depth of 40 centimeters. Extraction was done by means of the bisulfate fusion method, followed by subsequent colorimetric analysis with the use of biquinoline reagent in iso-amyl alcohol as metal extractment.

The results were plotted and contoured, yielding a consistent anomaly over known orebodies aand silicified-argillized zones. Values are noticeably higher in silicified zones, indicating a higher degree of copper concentration. The anomalies are confined on the northern part of the Pacac, Barlo and Kiramay creeks. Background readings range from 25 to 100 ppm, with threshold value at 150 ppm.

Diamond drilling has been recommended to verify the results obtained. The geochemical anomalies may guide in the layout of drill holes. ·