TITLE:
3D Multi-Layer Geological Modeling of the Allou Kagne Attapulgite Deposit (Senegal, West Africa)
AUTHORS:
Arfang Lamine Soumare, Mohamadou Moustapha Thiam, Mahamadane Diene
KEYWORDS:
Attapulgite, 3D Modeling, MSGBC Basin, Stratigraphic Pile, Optimization
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Geology,
Vol.16 No.1,
December
30,
2025
ABSTRACT: The Allou Kagne attapulgite deposit (Senegal) has a complex geological structure characterized by significant lateral and vertical heterogeneity. Conventional two-dimensional approaches cannot accurately represent this variability, hence the need for 3D modeling incorporating the available data. This study therefore aims to construct a reliable geological model to characterize the internal architecture of the deposit. The modeling is based on the integration of field and survey data into GDM Standard software and its Multilayer extension, which specializes in sedimentary sequence modeling. A 3D model was generated from a defined stratigraphic stack, ranging from Paleocene limestone to recent lateritic overburden. The results show the spatial distribution of the four attapulgite facies (ochre, low carbonate, medium carbonate, and high carbonate), revealing significant variations in thickness and erosion phenomena. This model is a valuable decision-making tool for optimizing exploration and rational resource exploitation.