Using Electrical Resistivity Tomography and Self-potential Methods for Wells Implementations in Fractured Limestones

Abstract

Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and self-potential (SP) investigations were conducted in fractured limestones in Belgium. The aim of this study was to find suitable positions for high yield water wells. Large ERT profiles (640 meters) allowed us to image the resistivity distribution of the first 60 meters of the subsurface and to detect and characterize (in terms of direction, width and depth) fractured zones expected to be less resistive. Data errors, DOI indexes and sensitivity models were analysed in order to calculate the depth of investigation of ERT and to avoid the misinterpretation of the resulting images. Self-potential measurements were performed along electrical profiles to narrow the possible locations given by the electrical images. Some negative anomalies possibly related to preferential flow were detected. ‘Ground truth’ geological data as well as pumping tests information gave us a way to assess the contribution of geophysics to a drilling programme. Wells implemented in low resistivity zones associated with SP anomalies have very high yields. Inversely, wells drilled in resistive zones or outside SP anomalies have poorer capacities. An apparent coupling coefficient between SP signals and differences in hydraulic heads was also estimated in order to image the water table.