Geophysical Techniques
DC electrical resistivity used to map variations in Near-Surface geologic strata
Magnetics with integrated differential GPS used to map buried volcanic centers, dikes, and faults in Western United States
Transient electromagnetics (TEM) used to detect depth and thickness of geologic and hydrologic units
Cost-effective techniques for rapid, accurate, and comprehensive geophysical mapping of the Earth's subsurface have been developed at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI). These geophysical techniques use:
- Magnetics
-
Electromagnetics
- Ground conductivity
- Transient electromagnetics
- Direct current resistivity
- Gravity Ground-penetrating radar
Each geophysical method targets different properties and specific depths. The geophysical method chosen for a site depends on:
- Geologic strata
- Investigation depth
- Resolution required
- Anticipated electrical and magnetic contrasts
When integrated, these geophysical methods can offer greater insight into geophysical subsurface characteristics than when used alone.
Related Terminology
electrical resistivity • electromagnetics • environmental geophysics • geophysics • gravity • ground conductivity • ground-penetrating radar • induced polarization • magnetics • Near-Surface geophysics resistivity • surface-based geophysics • transient electromagnetics
