Controlled-source Audio Magnetotelluric Data Research Articles

Constrained 2D inversion of radio-magnetotelluric and controlled-source audio-magnetotelluric data using high-resolution reflection seismic data: An example in groundwater surveying from Heby, Sweden

We advance a previously established method for 2D inversion of electromagnetic data, in which the smoothness constraints are locally reweighted according to the seismic envelope fractional gradients (SEFGs). As the first step of our modifications, seismic envelope values are edited and normalized. This results in the rejection of noise-contaminated parts, clipping the envelope outliers and increasing the reflectivity power of weak seismic signals. Second, we introduce a weighting matrix in the normalization process to incorporate prior information in the constrained inversion regarding the relative contrasts of electrical resistivity in the given parts of the model. Third, due to normalizing the SEFG, there is no need to search for an optimum stabilization factor to modify local smoothing weights, and hence, we set it to a constant value. Finally, an Occam inversion with additional Levenberg-Marquardt damping is used to mitigate possible artifacts in the resistivity model generated by reflection seismic constraints. In applying the proposed scheme to a synthetic example, interfaces of various geologic units are restored as sharp boundaries. In addition, artifacts generated in the original approach are effectively mitigated thanks to the applied normalization process. For the first time, we apply the method to radio-magnetotelluric (RMT) and controlled-source audio-magnetotelluric (CSAMT) field data acquired along a profile across a known aquifer in Heby, Sweden. Our inversion models compare favorably to previously presented results from seismic and geoelectric data. By modifying the smoothness weights based on SEFG, the depth to the bedrock is recovered well, being constrained by the corresponding interfaces in the seismic image. The resistivity models from seismically constrained inversions of RMT and CSAMT data reveal steeply dipping and possibly fractured bedrock underneath the valley-shaped aquifer in the area. This interpretation is verified by borehole logs.

Gravity and Magnetic Focusing Inversion in Revealing the Metallogenic Pattern of Dahongshan Copper–Iron Deposit in the Kangdian Area, China

The Dahongshan deposit is influenced by pronounced structural controls and intrusions, and its model of mineralization resulting from volcanic sedimentation has faced criticism for an extended period. To describe the deep structure and distribution characteristics of the ore deposit, and to investigate its ore-forming process and metallogenic model, this study employs the gravity, magnetic, and controlled source audio-magnetotelluric data with different scales to independently recover the density, magnetization intensity, and electrical resistivity for shedding light on the deep structure and mineralization distribution of the deposit. The inversion results show the presence of a giant intrusion extending up to 6 km deep within the deposit. The distribution of iron-rich ore bodies and deposit are controlled by the basement tilting and faults, with the deposit exhibiting a U-shaped distribution and the mineral body occurring in a lens-like shape. Additionally, the electrical results indicate the presence of high-resistance magma along faults that intrude the deposit. We propose that the deposit is a magmatic-related deposit, with a deep intrusion believed to be the residual source body from early rift intrusion, providing the source for mineralization of the deposit. The characteristics of the deposit controlled by east-west and north-south structures and the lenticular orebody distribution indicate that the deposit is closely influenced by regional structure and magmatism of fault intrusion. The mineralization model is proposed to be a result of the coordinated actions of structural, magmatic, and regional dynamic background for the breakup and convergence of supercontinents.

Integrated electromagnetic survey for groundwater exploration: case study at El-Minya, western desert of Egypt

ABSTRACT The determination of groundwater potentiality is one of the most significant challenges in hydro-geophysical research, especially in arid areas with limited water resources. A geophysical survey was carried out in the northwest of El-Minya Governorate to investigate the groundwater aquifer. A total of 20 controlled source audio-magnetotelluric (CSAMT) and 20 time domain electromagnetic soundings (TEM) were surveyed along two parallel profiles with station spacing varying between 500 and 2000 m. The CSAMT data was acquired using a hybrid source of low frequency band (0.1 Hz – 1 KHz) and standard high frequency band (10 Hz- 100 KHz). For the TEM survey, a coincident loop of side length of 50 m was used. The results of the integrated interpretation of both data sets (TEM and CSAMT) show a good consistency in the conductivity distribution. However, inspection of the results of the cross section indicates that two to three geoelectrical layers can be recognised in the subsurface medium. The area’s water potentiality is divided into two levels: the first begins immediately beneath the rock cap at depths of over 50 m and reaches nearly 200 m in some spots. The second level begins at a depth of 250 m and continues to a depth of 500 m.

Two-dimensional inversion of CSAMT data and three-dimensional geological mapping for groundwater exploration in Tongkeng Area, Hunan Province, China

Controlled source audio-magnetotelluric (CSAMT) is an indirect and effective geophysical prospecting method in subsurface prospecting. Although CSAMT investigation tools are equipped with new techniques, it must be noted that the models obtained still do not automatically decipher the reality of groundwater in bedrock with very high resistivity contrasts. Our study proposed a new CSAMT data processing scheme, which combined the 2D modeling and 3D visualization for groundwater exploration in Tongkeng area, Hunan Province, China. To directly highlight exploitable groundwater, we used the open-source and the OCCAM2D inversion software, coupled with the geological information of the area to define the 3D imaging with emphasizing on the network of producing fractures. We deployed three CSAMT profiles with transverse magnetic (TM) mode recorded on 21 frequencies (8192 Hz to 8 Hz). The data were filtered, pre-processed and carefully analyzed from station to station. Analysis of the apparent resistivity and phase maps show the conductive zones (<150 Ωm) and resistive zones (> 500 Ωm) separated by transition zones (150 to 500 Ωm). The 2D models and stacked sections show discontinuities of fractures marked by two major faults and a main fracture in the zone interconnected by minor fractures. A 3D geological map was obtained from the result of the best models of the different lines. The ITER2DAT function was used to export the data from OCCAM2D inversion and then display it to array and depth channels data for each station. Geological and borehole ZK01 data were used to build pseudo stratigraphic drillholes based on the range of very low (<10 Ωm) to high values resistivity structures (>1500 Ωm). The 3D view shows stratigraphic discontinuity that is between carbonaceous formation and the metamorphic granites. The intruded Devonian limestone layer, which is the potential water tank, and the carbonate vein layer are constantly heated by the geothermal gradient of the area.

Hypertension artérielle du sujet noir

Controlled source audio-magnetotelluric (CSAMT) is an indirect and effective geophysical prospecting method in subsurface prospecting. Although CSAMT investigation tools are equipped with new techniques, it must be noted that the models obtained still do not automatically decipher the reality of groundwater in bedrock with very high resistivity contrasts. Our study proposed a new CSAMT data processing scheme, which combined the 2D modeling and 3D visualization for groundwater exploration in Tongkeng area, Hunan Province, China. To directly highlight exploitable groundwater, we used the open-source and the OCCAM2D inversion software, coupled with the geological information of the area to define the 3D imaging with emphasizing on the network of producing fractures. We deployed three CSAMT profiles with transverse magnetic (TM) mode recorded on 21 frequencies (8192 Hz to 8 Hz). The data were filtered, pre-processed and carefully analyzed from station to station. Analysis of the apparent resistivity and phase maps show the conductive zones (<150 Ωm) and resistive zones (> 500 Ωm) separated by transition zones (150 to 500 Ωm). The 2D models and stacked sections show discontinuities of fractures marked by two major faults and a main fracture in the zone interconnected by minor fractures. A 3D geological map was obtained from the result of the best models of the different lines. The ITER2DAT function was used to export the data from OCCAM2D inversion and then display it to array and depth channels data for each station. Geological and borehole ZK01 data were used to build pseudo stratigraphic drillholes based on the range of very low (<10 Ωm) to high values resistivity structures (>1500 Ωm). The 3D view shows stratigraphic discontinuity that is between carbonaceous formation and the metamorphic granites. The intruded Devonian limestone layer, which is the potential water tank, and the carbonate vein layer are constantly heated by the geothermal gradient of the area.

Controlled Source Audio Magneto Telluric (CSAMT) studies for uranium exploration in Durgi area, Palnad sub-basin, Cuddapah basin, India

Cuddapah basin is known for hosting unconformity proximal uranium deposits viz., Lambapur, Peddagattu, Chitirial and Koppunuru along the northern margin of the basin. It is well known that these deposits are mostly associated with basement granitoids in Srisailam Sub-basin, and with cover sediments in Palnad subbasin where basement topography and fault/fracture system influence the fluid flow causing basement alteration and ore deposition. Geological setup, surface manifestation of uranium anomalies and association of the hydro-uranium anomalies near Durgi area in southern part of the Palnad sub-basin, have prompted detail investigation by geophysical methods to probe greater depths. Controlled Source Audio Magneto Telluric (CSAMT) survey conducted over five decades of frequency (0.1-9600 Hz) delineated the various lithounits of Kurnool and Nallamalai Groups along with their thicknesses as there exist an appreciable resistivity contrast. Interpretation of CSAMT sounding data are constrained by resistivity logs and litholog data obtained from the boreholes drilled within the basin indicated three to four layered structure. Sub-surface 2-D and 3-D geo-electrical models are simulated by stitching 1-D layered inverted resistivity earth models. Stitched 1-D inverted resistivity sections revealed the unconformity between the Kurnool Group and Nallamalai Group along with basement undulations. The faults/fractures delineated from the CSAMT data corroborated well with the results of gravity data acquired over the same area. Simulated 3-D voxel resistivity model helped in visualising the faults/fractures, their depth extent, thickness of the Banganapalle quartzite and basement configuration. Integrated interpretation of CSAMT, gravity and borehole data facilitated in delineating the unconformity and the structural features favourable for uranium mineralisation in deeper parts of the Palnad sub-basin.

Joint inversions of three types of electromagnetic data explicitly constrained by seismic observations: results from the central Okavango Delta, Botswana

The Okavango Delta of northern Botswana is one of the world's largest inland deltas or megafans. To obtain information on the character of sediments and basement depths, audiomagnetotelluric (AMT), controlled-source audiomagnetotelluric (CSAMT) and central-loop transient electromagnetic (TEM) data were collected on the largest island within the delta. The data were inverted individually and jointly for 1-D models of electric resistivity. Distortion effects in the AMT and CSAMT data were accounted for by including galvanic distortion tensors as free parameters in the inversions. By employing Marquardt–Levenberg inversion, we found that a 3-layer model comprising a resistive layer overlying sequentially a conductive layer and a deeper resistive layer was sufficient to explain all of the electromagnetic data. However, the top of the basal resistive layer from electromagnetic-only inversions was much shallower than the well-determined basement depth observed in high-quality seismic reflection images and seismic refraction velocity tomograms. To resolve this discrepancy, we jointly inverted the electromagnetic data for 4-layer models by including seismic depths to an interface between sedimentary units and to basement as explicit a priori constraints. We have also estimated the interconnected porosities, clay contents and pore-fluid resistivities of the sedimentary units from their electrical resistivities and seismic P-wave velocities using appropriate petrophysical models. In the interpretation of our preferred model, a shallow ∼40 m thick freshwater sandy aquifer with 85–100 Ωm resistivity, 10–32 per cent interconnected porosity and <13 per cent clay content overlies a 105–115 m thick conductive sequence of clay and intercalated salt-water-saturated sands with 15–20 Ωm total resistivity, 1−27 per cent interconnected porosity and 15–60 per cent clay content. A third ∼60 m thick sandy layer with 40–50 Ωm resistivity, 10–33 per cent interconnected porosity and <15 per cent clay content is underlain by the basement with 3200–4000 Ωm total resistivity. According to an interpretation of helicopter TEM data that cover the entire Okavango Delta and borehole logs, the second and third layers may represent lacustrine sediments from Paleo Lake Makgadikgadi and a moderately resistive freshwater aquifer comprising sediments of the recently proposed Paleo Okavango Megafan, respectively.

A hybrid regularization scheme for the inversion of magnetotelluric data from natural and controlled sources to layer and distortion parameters

Magnetotelluric (MT), radiomagnetotelluric (RMT), and, in particular, controlled-source audiomagnetotelluric (CSAMT) data are often heavily distorted by near-surface inhomogeneities. We developed a novel scheme to invert MT, RMT, and CSAMT data in the form of scalar or tensorial impedances and vertical magnetic transfer functions simultaneously for layer resistivities and electric and magnetic galvanic distortion parameters. The inversion scheme uses smoothness constraints to regularize layer resistivities and either Marquardt-Levenberg damping or the minimum-solution length criterion to regularize distortion parameters. A depth of investigation range is estimated by comparing layered model sections derived from first- and second-order smoothness constraints. Synthetic examples demonstrate that earth models are reconstructed properly for distorted and undistorted tensorial CSAMT data. In the inversion of scalar CSAMT data, such as the determinant impedance or individual tensor elements, the reduced number of transfer functions inevitably leads to increased ambiguity for distortion parameters. As a consequence of this ambiguity for scalar data, distortion parameters often grow over the iterations to unrealistic absolute values when regularized with the Marquardt-Levenberg scheme. Essentially, compensating relationships between terms containing electric and/or magnetic distortion are used in this growth. In a regularization with the minimum solution length criterion, the distortion parameters converge into a stable configuration after several iterations and attain reasonable values. The inversion algorithm was applied to a CSAMT field data set collected along a profile over a tunnel construction site at Hallandsåsen, Sweden. To avoid erroneous inverse models from strong anthropogenic effects on the data, two scalar transfer functions (one scalar impedance and one scalar vertical magnetic transfer function) were selected for inversion. Compared with a regularization of distortion parameters with the Marquardt-Levenberg method, the minimum-solution length criterion yielded smaller absolute values of distortion parameters and a horizontally more homogeneous distribution of electrical conductivity.

Audiomagnetotelluric characterization of range-front faults, Snake Range, Nevada

Two controlled-source audio-magnetotelluric (CSAMT) profiles were collected on the eastern flank of the Snake Range in eastern Nevada across geologically complex terrain to investigate the suspected presence of faults along the range front. The location of the range-bounding faults is not easily determined on geologic grounds because of the presence of extensive young sedimentary cover and overall geologic complexity. Characterization of the presence, location, and structural style of the range-front faults is critical to assessment of connectivity of groundwater aquifers near the mountain front and in adjacent alluvial basins. A total of 48 CSAMT soundings were recorded along two lines that were chosen to maximize subsurface geologic information. Two generations of faults were interpreted based on the CSAMT data: an older, low-angle fault that is cut by a younger, more steeply dipping fault. Lack of deep boreholes in the region required that the subsurface interpretation rely on analogy from surface outcrops within and adjacent to the study area. The success of the CSAMT method as applied in this study hinged on near-ideal collection conditions, the relatively high contrast in electrical resistivity provided by the rock types involved, and well-developed geologic conceptual models of the region.

Tensor CSAMT survey over the Sulphur Springs thermal area, Valles Caldera, New Mexico, United States of America, Part I: Implications for structure of the western caldera

An extensive tensor controlled‐source audiomagnetotelluric (CSAMT) survey has been carried out over the Sulphur Springs geothermal area, Valles Caldera, New Mexico. Forty‐five sites were acquired using two crossed transmitter bipoles placed approximately 13 km south of the center of the survey. The soundings in the Sulphur Springs area were arranged in four profiles to cross major structural features. To curtail spatial aliasing, the electric bipoles along each profile were deployed contiguously. The frequency range of acquisition was 4096 Hz down to 1 Hz for the central line, but only down to 4 Hz for most sites of the other lines. CSAMT and magnetotelluric (MT) data taken outside Valles Caldera were constrained by drill logs and imply resistive Bandelier Tuff, underlain by conductive Paleozoic sediments, and further underlain by resistive, primarily Precambrian crystalline rocks. Model cross‐sections within the caldera were derived using 2-D parameterized inversion constrained by drilling, with layered‐earth inversion for starting models. Southeast of the Sulphur Creek fault, the upper 200 m of the section are of relatively low resistivity and correspond to unconsolidated land‐slide and debris flows. The Bandelier Tuff below exhibits higher but variable resistivities because of alteration controlled by local faulting. Beneath the Bandelier Tuff, the Paleozoic sedimentary layer is only moderately less resistive than it is outside the caldera, with the lowest values occuring northwest of Sulphur Creek. Its low resistivity per se does not necessarily represent a hydrothermal aquifer. The Sulphur Creek fault appears to be a locus of substantial change in structural relief; up‐throw of stratigraphy and basement to its west appears to be about 400–500 m. A major normal fault down to the southeast is located under the topographic expression of Freelove Canyon, which is up to 1 km farther southeast than suggested by previous geologic sections. High resistivities possibly corresponding to a vapor zone in the upper 500 m near VC-2B and VC-2A are not consistent with the CSAMT data.

Tensor CSAMT survey over the Sulphur Springs thermal area, Valles Caldera, New Mexico, United States of America, Part II: Implications for CSAMT methodology

The resistivity model for the Sulphur Springs area in the companion paper (Part I) plus the availability of overlapping controlled‐source audiomagnetotelluric (CSAMT) and magnetotelluric (MT) data has allowed study of far‐field to near‐field transitions, source field geometries over the survey area, and scalar‐tensor impedance discrepancies. The regional setting of conductive Paleozoic sediments over resistive basement seriously reduced depth of exploration within the plane‐wave regime to about 1/20th of the transmitter‐receiver separation, rather than the traditional 1/3rd to 1/5th based on half‐space models. As frequency falls to where skin depth in the sedimentary layer exceeds its thickness, transmitter electromagnetic (EM) fields enter the resistive basement and may diffuse to the receiver with relatively little attenuation, promoting near‐field behavior. Comparisons are made of observed electric (E) and magnetic (H) fields inside and outside the caldera with EM fields computed from layered resistivity models derived from local 1-D inversion of the ρa and θ, and from simple 3-D models. First, the comparisons indicate that small‐scale structure near the transmitter does not lead to overprint effects in the impedance data at the receiver but, instead, acts as an equivalent far‐field source. Second, at both high and low frequencies, the observed E and H fields can depart substantially from those predicted by local layered models. In fact, an effective regional layering appears to control the magnetic field amplitudes and the far‐to near‐field transition in this survey area. The observed electric fields, on the other hand, are controlled by all scales of geology. When heterogeneity is important, significant departures between scalar and tensor CSAMT data can be expected, and are exacerbated when the source field is poorly coupled to the sensors. The problem is much reduced for vector CSAMT measurements where all horizontal field components are measured and the maximally coupled results are defined, but mode identification is more difficult for multidimensional structures.

Surface distortion decomposition for vector controlled source audio-magnetotelluric data

Los datos audiomagnetotelúricos de fuente controlada (CSAMT) utilizando un solo dipolo eléctrico, también conocidos como datos CSAMT vectoriales, son procesados normalmente usando un modelo de inducción bidimensional el cual no incorpora efectos por distorsión galvánica. El número limitado de datos disponibles en CSAMT vectorial no permite modelos que incluyan simultáneamente efectos de inducción 2-D y distorsión galvánica local. En este artículo proponemos dos modelos unidimensionales de distorsión, los cuales son casos especiales del método genera de descomposición tensorial MT de Groom y Bailey (1989). Uno de estos asume que el parámetro de distorsión llamado splitting (s) puede hacerse cero escogiendo un sistema coordenado apropiado. El otro, desarrollado en términos de elipses de polarización, supone que el parámetro de distorsión shear (e) puede hacerse cero rotando los ejes principales a los ejes de medición. El primero de los modelos genera la resistividad, la fase y los parámetros twist (t) y shear, mientras que el segundo genera la resistividad, la fase y los parámetros twist y splitting.

Controlled‐source audiomagnetotellurics in geothermal exploration

Theoretical and field tests indicate that the controlled‐source audiomagnetotelluric (CSAMT) method provides an efficient means of delineating the shallow resistivity pattern above a hydrothermal system. Utilizing a transmitter overcomes the main limitation of conventional audiomagnetotellurics—variable and unreliable natural source fields. Reliable CSAMT measurements can be made with a simple scalar receiver. Our calculations for a half‐space show that the plane‐wave assumption is valid when the transmitter is more than 3 skin depths away in the broadside configuration and more than 5 skin depths away in the collinear configuration. Three‐dimensional (3-D) numerical modeling results for a bipole source 5 skin depths away compare well with those for a plane‐wave source, showing that the method is valid. A CSAMT survey at the Roosevelt Hot Springs geothermal area in Utah produced apparent resistivity contour maps at four frequencies: 32, 98, 977, and 5208 Hz. These maps show the same features as those of a dipole‐dipole resistivity map. We also collected detailed CSAMT data at 10 frequencies on two profiles. Two‐dimensional (2-D) plane‐wave modeling (transverse magnetic mode) of the resulting pseudo‐sections yields models similar to those derived by modeling the dipole‐dipole resistivity data. However, CSAMT resolved details not shown by the resistivity modeling. Thus, high resolution along with an efficient field procedure make CSAMT an attractive tool for geothermal exploration.