Integrated Aeromagnetic and Aeroradiometric Analysis for Structural Mapping and Mineral Prospectivity Assessment Using Euler Deconvolution and Fuzzy Logic: A Case Study from the Jabal Gasus Area, Central Eastern Desert, Egypt

The global increase in demand for critical minerals necessitates efficient exploration approaches that reduce environmental impact while maximizing the discovery of potential mineral deposits. This study aims to (i) delineate magnetic lineaments and lithological boundaries in the Jabal Gasus area, Central Eastern Desert, Egypt; (ii) estimate magnetic-source locations and depths under alternative source-geometry assumptions; and (iii) integrate structural, radiometric, and lithological evidence to delineate and rank zones favorable for structurally controlled gold-polymetallic and intrusion-related mineralization. To achieve these objectives, airborne magnetic and radiometric data were analyzed using Improved Logistic (IL) and Logsigm Function (LSF) edge-detection filters, Euler deconvolution (EUD), Center for Exploration Targeting (CET) grid and porphyry analyses, and GIS-based fuzzy logic modeling. The results identify N-S, NW-SE, and NE-SW magnetic lineaments and structural corridors that are spatially associated with lithological contacts, intrusive features, and known mineral occurrences. Euler deconvolution provides model-dependent estimates of source location and depth under alternative assumed source geometries; these estimates are used as supporting structural constraints rather than as uniquely resolved fault depths. Radiometric signatures, including high potassium, anomalous eU concentrations, and high F-parameter values, primarily reflect lithological contrasts and identify areas for follow-up assessment of possible hydrothermal alteration where supported by independent geological evidence. The integrated fuzzy prospectivity model provides a knowledge-driven, first-pass ranking of areas for follow-up exploration. The highly favorable class covers 62.53% of the area and contains five of seven known hydrothermal occurrences, indicating regional selectivity. The AUC of 0.733 is an internal success-rate estimate, without independent testing or spatial cross-validation. This study presents the first integrated magnetic–radiometric–fuzzy logic mineral system model developed for the Jabal Gasus district, resolving a depth structural framework and a prospectivity map that were not available from prior investigations of the area. This methodology indicates that integrated geophysical investigation helps manage exploration uncertainty, establishing an applicable workflow for sustainable mineral exploration in the ENS and similar Precambrian terrains.