TISHK INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

FACULITY OF ENGINEERING
PETROLUEM & MINING DEPARTMENT

Lab No.: 2

Applied Geophysics

Resistivity method

Supervised By: Ms.Ala Ibrahim

Prepared By: Ahmed Shukir & Abdulqadir Sabah
Introduction:
The resistivity method, also known as electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) or
electrical resistivity imaging (ERI), is a geophysical technique used to investigate
subsurface structures and properties. It works by measuring the electrical resistivity
of the Earth's subsurface materials. Here is a concise introduction:
Principle:
The resistivity method relies on the fact that different materials have different
electrical resistivities. By injecting electrical current into the ground through
electrodes and measuring the resulting potential differences, it is possible to infer
the distribution of subsurface resistivity variations.
Equipment:
Typically, a resistivity survey involves placing a series of electrodes in the ground
in a specific configuration, such as a straight line or a grid pattern. These
electrodes are connected to a resistivity meter, which injects current into the
ground through a pair of electrodes while measuring the potential difference
between another pair.
Data Interpretation:
The collected data is then processed and interpreted to create a resistivity profile or
image of the subsurface. Variations in resistivity can indicate changes in geological
features such as rock type, water content, voids, or pollution plumes.
Advantages:
One of the main advantages of the resistivity method is its non-destructive nature.
It allows for large areas to be surveyed relatively quickly and provides valuable
information without the need for excavation. Additionally, it can penetrate to
significant depths depending on the equipment and geological conditions.
Limitations:
However, the resistivity method has limitations. It may struggle in highly
conductive environments such as areas with saline groundwater, and its resolution
is limited in complex geological settings. Interpretation of the data requires
expertise to distinguish between different subsurface features accurately. In
summary, the resistivity method is a valuable tool in geophysics, providing insights
into the subsurface structure and properties for various scientific and engineering
applications.
Objective:
The resistivity method, commonly used in geophysics and engineering, aims to
determine the electrical resistivity distribution of subsurface materials. One of its
primary objectives is to delineate geological structures and map subsurface
features such as faults, fractures, bedrock variations, and groundwater resources.
By measuring the electrical resistivity of the ground at different depths, scientists
and engineers can infer the composition and characteristics of underground
formations, aiding in various applications like mineral exploration, environmental
studies, and civil engineering projects such as site characterization and
groundwater investigations.
Procedure:
The resistivity method is a geophysical technique used to investigate the
subsurface by measuring the electrical resistivity of the ground. Here's a general
procedure for conducting resistivity surveys:
Site Selection: Choose the survey area based on the objectives of the study,
geological considerations, and accessibility.
Equipment Setup:
Select the appropriate resistivity equipment, such as a resistivity meter or a multi-
electrode system.
Install electrodes: Typically, four electrodes are used for a simple resistivity survey
(current electrodes for injecting current and potential electrodes for measuring
voltage), but more complex arrays can be employed for more detailed
investigations.
Layout the electrode array according to the chosen survey configuration (e.g.,
Wenner, Schlumberger, dipole-dipole).
Connect the electrodes to the resistivity meter or multi-electrode system.
Survey Configuration: Decide on the survey configuration based on the objectives
and the expected subsurface conditions. Common configurations include Wenner,
Schlumberger, dipole-dipole, pole-dipole, etc.
Data Acquisition:
Inject a current into the ground through the current electrodes.
Measure the voltage difference between the potential electrodes.
Record the apparent resistivity values corresponding to different electrode
separations or configurations.
Data Processing and Interpretation:
Process the raw data to correct for factors like electrode spacing, terrain effects,
and instrument errors.
Interpret the processed data to create a resistivity profile or model of the
subsurface.
Identify anomalies or variations in resistivity that may indicate geological features
such as bedrock, faults, fractures, or subsurface structures.
Integration with Other Data: Combine resistivity data with other geological and
geophysical data if available, such as seismic surveys, borehole logs, or geological
maps, to enhance interpretation and understanding of subsurface conditions.
Report and Analysis:
Prepare a report summarizing the survey objectives, methodology, data acquisition,
processing, interpretation, and conclusions.
Provide recommendations or further steps based on the findings of the resistivity
survey.
Quality Control: Verify the quality of the data and interpretation by conducting
checks and validation exercises, such as comparing resistivity profiles with known
geological features or conducting field verifications.
Repeat Surveys (if necessary): Conduct follow-up surveys or additional
investigations if required to refine interpretations or explore specific features
identified in the initial survey.
Documentation and Archiving: Document all aspects of the survey, including field
notes, data files, processing scripts, interpretation reports, and any supplementary
materials, and archive them for future reference.
This procedure may vary depending on the specific objectives of the survey, site
conditions, equipment used, and available resources. It's important to follow best
practices and guidelines specific to the resistivity method and consult experienced
professionals if needed.
Applications
The resistivity method is widely used in various fields for subsurface imaging and
characterization. Some applications include:
Geological Surveys: Resistivity surveys are commonly used in geological studies
to map subsurface structures such as faults, fractures, bedrock, and geological
layers. This information is crucial for understanding the geological history of an
area, identifying potential mineral deposits, and planning construction projects.
Hydrogeological Investigations: Resistivity surveys are used to delineate
groundwater resources, locate aquifers, and map groundwater flow patterns. By
measuring the resistivity of subsurface materials, hydrogeologists can determine
the distribution of permeable and impermeable layers, which helps in managing
water resources and designing groundwater extraction systems.
Environmental Studies: The resistivity method is employed in environmental
studies to detect and delineate contaminant plumes, such as those from landfills,
industrial sites, or underground storage tanks. By mapping the subsurface electrical
properties, environmental scientists can assess the extent of contamination and plan
remediation efforts accordingly.
Archaeological Investigations: Archaeologists use resistivity surveys to identify
buried archaeological features, such as walls, ditches, and buried structures,
without excavation. Variations in resistivity can indicate changes in soil
composition caused by human activity, helping archaeologists pinpoint areas of
interest for further investigation.
Engineering and Civil Infrastructure: In civil engineering projects, resistivity
surveys are employed to assess the subsurface conditions before construction to
identify potential hazards, such as voids, cavities, or weak soil layers. This
information is crucial for designing stable foundations and ensuring the integrity of
structures like buildings, bridges, and roads.
Mineral Exploration: Resistivity surveys are utilized in mineral exploration to
identify ore bodies and mineral deposits beneath the Earth's surface. Variations in
resistivity can indicate the presence of different rock types and mineralization,
helping geologists target areas with high mineral potential for further exploration.
Monitoring Subsurface Processes: The resistivity method is used to monitor
subsurface processes such as groundwater movement, soil moisture variations, and
underground fluid flow. Continuous resistivity monitoring provides valuable data
for understanding the dynamics of these processes and their impact on the
environment.
These are just a few examples of the diverse applications of the resistivity method.
Its versatility makes it a valuable tool in various scientific, engineering, and
environmental fields for investigating the subsurface properties of the Earth.