2-D Laterally constrained inversion (LCI) of resistivity data

Abstract

2D laterally constrained inversion (2D LCI) is a new approach to interpretation of continuous resistivity data using an inversion scheme similar to that used for 1D LCI. The only difference is that the forward code in the inversion scheme is 2D. This enables a layered 2D inversion in sedimentary areas where the layering has been disturbed in a degree, that a 1D model is inadequate, but a layered model is still applicable. The layered 2D inversion provides a full analysis of the model, and can include a priori information just as in the 1D case. Preliminary results on synthetic data show that a layered 2D approach enables a more detailed description of 2D structures, which the 1D formulation can not resolve. The model complexity is controlled and balanced by the lateral constraints on depths and resistivities.