Geoelectrical Resistivity Research Articles

Geoelectrical resistivity and geochemistry monitoring of landfill leachates due to the seasonal variations and the implications on groundwater systems and public health

Understanding the seasonal variations in the landfill leachate plumes (LLPs) properties and complex connections between concentrations of leachate variability, and its environment is essential for environmental and public health management. This study explores the combined electrical resistivity (ER) data and physiochemical water analysis (PWA) coupled with the excavations to monitor the landfill physiochemical properties (LPPs) due to seasonal variations and their implications on environmental vital organs and public health. The variations in ER and LLP distributions across the overburdened top layer due to seasonal changes were examined. The low ER contrasts were encountered within the ranges of 1.5 Ωm – 19.0 Ωm which was mapped as LLP accumulated zones within the landfill, while high ER values varied between 15 Ωm – 260 Ωm off-the landfill extending beyond 15 m. The results of the PWA indicate high concentrations of heavy metals (HMs) such as iron (Fe), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and cadmium (Cd) decreasing with wet seasons and increasing with dry seasons. The overall high concentration of HMs in the LLPs was indeed varied between 9.81 ± 2.15–19.07 ± 3.68, while the electrical conductivity (EC) significantly increased from 17.99 ± 1.92 mg/L to 24.87 ± 3.31 mg/L towards the wet season. The increment and decrement encountered in the LPPs are due to seasonal variation and dilution. The order of decrement in the HMs in the LLPs treads as follows EC > Fe > Zn > Pb > Cd in values, respectively. The near-surface EC aligned well with the ER results and boundaries of the waste disposal site, which was verified by the soil excavations. In addition, the ER method was extended beyond the landfill for adequate monitoring, identifying the subsurface layers, conductive shallow zones mapped as the zones of LLP accumulation, resistive deep and shallow zones mapped as the consolidated lateritic topsoil and crystalline basement rocks in some cases, and a dipping conductive lineament zones identified as fracture zones just before the crystalline basement. In conclusion, the ER technique reveals the vertical and horizontal extents of the LLP escapade, the PWA expressed the concentrations of HMs in the LLPs, heightening the implications on the environmental and human health. Finally, the combined techniques deployed for monitoring the physiochemical properties of LLPs due to seasonal variation and the impacts on the integrity of groundwater quality systems and public health inform sustainable waste management practices, which contributes significantly to the protection of groundwater resources and the development of effective strategies to safeguard groundwater systems and public health for present and future generations.

Application of Combined Geoelectrical Techniques for Groundwater Exploration at Federal University Gusau, Zamfara and its Environ, Northwest Nigeria

Study’s Excerpt Integrated approach combining Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), Natural Electric Field (NEF) method, and Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) is used to delineate groundwater potential in the study area. The results revealed that the water bearing aquifers in the study area are fractured basement layers at varying depths between 15 and 105 meters. This research provided a robust framework for groundwater exploration in arid and geologically complex terrains. Full Abstract The area of study is currently facing an acute water shortage due to the dominant lithological framework that underlies the region and its fragile climate condition. As such, this study aimed at unearthing the groundwater potential of the area using a combined three geoelectrical techniques. Techniques such as Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), Natural Electric Field (NEF) method, and Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) were employed in the delineation of the groundwater potential of the area. Using an ABEM SAS-4000 Resistivity meter and a PQWT-TC150 water-detector equipment, respectively. Wennar array was employed for the conduct of ERT while Schlumberger configuration was used for VES data collection. The measured apparent resistivity value was inputted into RES2DIV software and subjected to an inversion process to generate the resistivity structural image of the subsurface. However, IP2WIN software was used for the VES data interpretation. The result of the ERT method revealed two to three geoelectrical resistivity layers: an overburdened layer of topsoil/laterite with resistivity values ranging from 6.86 Ωm to 1095 Ωm and thicknesses of 1-13 meters, a weathered/fractured basement layer, interpreted as the aquifer unit, with resistivity values between 28.7 Ωm and 345 Ωm, and thicknesses ranging from 6 - 30 meters; and a fresh/slightly fractured basement layer with resistivity values from 367 Ωm to 6899 Ωm. NEF method revealed the thickness and depth of the aquiferous layer across the six profile lines to range between 15-60m, 30-90m, 15-85m, 20-80m, 45-105m, and 20-40m respectively, with points on profile five (5) identified as the most promising site with regards to groundwater development. VES result identifies weathered and fractured layers as the major aquiferous units with resistivity values ranging from 9.965 Ωm to 9651 Ωm and 21.7 Ωm to 859 Ωm respectively with fracture thickness reaching up to 60m in some instances. The result goes in line with the outcome of both NRF and ERT techniques. The geological interference of this lithology on groundwater exploration reveals both the weathered overburden and fractured basement as aquiferous units in the study area. The study identified several promising aquiferous zones at depths ranging from 15 to 105 meters, with fractured basement layers serving as primary reservoirs for groundwater development.

Geoelectrical resistivity mapping for sustainable groundwater management in Umuahia South: Insights from vertical electrical sounding

The study of geoelectrical resistivity provides critical insights into subsurface characteristics and aquifer dynamics, particularly in regions with varying geological formations. This research investigates the geoelectrical properties of the aquifer system in Umuahia South, highlighting its significance for sustainable groundwater management. The primary aim of this study is to characterize the geoelectrical layers, assess aquifer thickness and resistivity, and evaluate the implications for groundwater resource management. Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) was conducted across ten locations to measure the resistivity and thickness of subsurface layers. The data collected were analyzed to identify distinct geoelectrical layers, their respective resistivity values, and thicknesses. The study reveals significant variations in aquifer properties across the region, with VES 1 showcasing the largest thickness of 69.2 m and VES 9 the smallest at 5.2 m. Aquifer thickness decreases from the Benin Formation toward the Ameki and Ogwashi-Asaba Formations. Hydraulic conductivity ranges from 0.207 to 0.954 m/day, indicating varying groundwater flow potential, while transmissivity values vary from 4.965 to 30.441 m²/day, with 60% of aquifers classified as intermediate. Groundwater Potential Index (GWPI) highlights approximately 70% of the area as high potential, underscoring the need for targeted management strategies to optimize water resource extraction and sustainability. The variability in resistivity and thickness across the study area suggests significant subsurface heterogeneity. High resistivity values indicate favorable conditions for groundwater flow, particularly in areas like VES 6. Conversely, lower resistivity in locations such as VES 9 indicates potential challenges for groundwater storage. This study provides vital information on the aquifer system in Umuahia South, emphasizing the need for targeted groundwater management strategies based on the geoelectrical characteristics identified. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of the aquifer dynamics in the region and offers a framework for sustainable groundwater resource management, highlighting the importance of geoelectrical assessments.

Determination Of Liquefaction Sediment Volume In Balaroa VillageUsing The Geoelectric Resistance Type Method

Introduction: Research has been carried out titled "Determining the Volume of Liquefaction Sediment Using the Geoelectric Resistivity Type Method in Balaroa Village". Methods: This research aims to identify subsurface lithology and determine the volume of liquefaction sediment in Balaroa Village. This research uses the resistivity method Wenner configuration. Result and Discussion: Measurements were carried out in 4 passes with the distance between electrodes on Tracks 1 - 3 being 7 m and on Track 4 a distance of 10 m. From the results of measurements and data interpretation, it was obtained that the type resistance value was 2.98 - 436.14 Ωm with lithology in the form of clay, sand, and gravel. The calculated volume of liquefaction sediment in Balaroa Village is 370,883 m³. Conclusion: Clay and sand rocks are liquefaction sediments with resistance values of less than 67.86 Ωm. Meanwhile, gravel and building debris are non-liquefaction rocks with resistance values of more than 67.86 Ωm. The calculated liquefaction sediment in Balaroa Village is around 370,883 m³. The volume of liquefaction sediment increases in thickness in the eastern part, which is caused by morphological conditions that tend to be more gentle in that part.

Aquifer Mapping Using Geo-Electrical Resistivity Survey for Seepage Mitigation in Kuwil Kawangkoan Dam, North Minahasa, North Sulawesi, Indonesia

Abstract The dam built in an area with a productive aquifer system has potential seepage, influenced by groundwater presence. Seepage can cause instability in the main dams or slopes around the dam. An initial assessment of subsurface geological conditions needs to be done to identify groundwater potential as information in mitigating seepage potential in the dam. Kuwil Kawangkoan Dam is located in the Manado groundwater basin with a high groundwater potential. The 2D electrical resistivity approach with the Wenner configuration was applied in this study. Geoelectric data was acquired on 12 lines spread across the dam area. The measurement results show a resistivity value of less than 300 Ωm, indicating the layer is composed of unconsolidated pyroclastic sediments in the form of sand–gravel. This layer has a depth of around 35 m from the surface. The lithology found is dominated by tuff lapilli with pumice fragments that have the potential as an aquifer.

Geophysical and physicochemical assessment of groundwater and the implication on the public health in rural and semi-urban areas of Northern Nigeria

Groundwater resource plays a central role in every sector of life globally. Unfortunately, the roles of groundwater are often unappreciated in many parts of the world, especially in developing nations. The paper applied a combined geo-electrical method and hydrochemical analysis alongside physical surveys to investigate aquifer promising zones, the quality and the source of water supply in the selected regions. The geo-electric resistivity data were used to select the most aquifer-promising zone for groundwater development with a key interest in groundwater potential and aquifer overburden protective capacity overlying the water-bearing unit. Seventeen (17) vertical electrical sounding (VES) acquired in four regions reveals that the regional weathered/fractured unit which constitutes the aquifer unity extends from 13.4 m to 41.3 m in depth with the subsurface resistivity value varying between 53 Ωm–1013 Ωm in terms of resistivity values. The overburdened thickness (protective soil layers) stretches from 2.5 m to 13 m with a resistive layer of resistivity values ranging from 111 Ωm to 2877 Ωm, which could provide high aquifer protective cover for the regional groundwater systems. The computed aquifer transmissivity and hydraulic conductivity range from 0.54 m2/h\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${m}^{2}/h$$\\end{document}–15.85 m2/h\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${m}^{2}/h$$\\end{document}, and 0.95 m/day–9.19 m/day, respectively. The estimated average longitudinal conductance (0.2 moh) reveals that the regional groundwater systems are moderately protective against surface contaminants. In addition, the physicochemical water analysis was examined, which exposes the level of heavy metals (HMs) compositions in the regional groundwater systems and the possible public health risks compared to WHO permissible drinking water limits. The sample water from the Rivers had the highest concentration of HMs (0.089 mg/I–2.012 mg/l), followed by the hand-dug wells (HWDs) (0.033 mg/l–1.555 mg/l) and the lowest in the borehole (0.011 mg/l–0.511 mg/l). In contrast, the borehole water sample shows a moderation where the HMs presence falls within the WHO standard for drinking water. The outcomes of the study show that 63% of the investigated region consumed water with a high concentration of HMs above the WHO permissible standard allowance for drinking water, while only 37% took water that falls within the WHO permissible standard. In conclusion, the study showed significant impacts of anthropogenic activities on the regional water quality, which provides vital information about the regional groundwater systems and the quality of water supply for adequate groundwater development and sustainability.

Identification of Seawater Intrusion in Groundwater using The Wenner-Schlumberger Configuration (2D) Geoelectric Resistivity Method on Balu Island, Santiri Village, Tiworo Utara Sub-District, West Muna Regency

This research aims to identify sea water intrusion in groundwater using the Wenner-Schlumberger configuration (2D) resistivity geolectric method on Balu Island, Santiri village, Tiworo Utara sub-District, West Muna Regency. This research uses primary data which is resistivty measurement data measured in the field aimed at identifying groundwater aquifers. The interpretation data is then reconstructed into 2D cross-sectional profile using Res2Dinv software. The results obtained in the research area show that sea water intrusion has occurred in groundwater at an average surface depth of up to 39.6 meters with low resistivity values ​​between 0.06 – 807 Ohm-meters

Identification of Groundwater Potential on Katela Island, West Muna Regency Using the Geoelectric Resistivity Method

Island Katela has a population of 957 people. Currently, the community has difficulty getting clean water. Activities to identify potential groundwater resources on Katela Island need to be carried out to solve this problem. The purpose of this research activity is to identify the subsurface of the land on Katela Island, West Muna Regency using the geoelectric resistivity method to obtain information on the potential of the groundwater layer. The main objective is to determine the existence of groundwater resources on Katela Island where the presence of groundwater is depicted in 2-dimensional (2D) and 1-dimensional (1D) subsurface resistivity cross-sectional models. The results obtained show that the structure of the subsurface layers in the survey area consists of layers of clay, sand, sandstone, limestone, salt water layers and groundwater (fresh) layers. The potential existence of a groundwater layer (fresh) is at a depth of 31.25 m at Site 1, with a resistivity value above 0.2 Ωm to 1 Ωm. This layer is thought to be a fresh water layer because above it there is a layer of clay which is impermeable so it is difficult for sea water to intrude. Based on resistivity data, at shallow depths (at the surface to a depth of 25 m) in the survey area sea water has been intruded.

Unveiling Subsurface Characteristics of Cliff Land in Sibang, Bali Through Geoelectric Investigation

The unique geological formations and environmental dynamics of cliffs underscore the significance of comprehending soil composition and structural integrity for diverse applications, such as infrastructure development and environmental conservation. Geoelectrical needs to be done because the underground geological conditions of the cliff must be researched and assessed first before construction is carried out so that construction failure does not occur. This research aims to reveal the subsurface characteristics of cliff soil in Sibang, Bali through geoelectrical investigation. This research was conducted by evaluating the soil condition in the field using the geoelectric resistivity method to the ability of a material to inhibit the flow of electric current and geological regional theories. At points BL-01 and BL-04, there is a significant potential risk of landslides due to the thick layer of breccia, especially during high rainfall or additional loads in the area. Point BL-02 also has a potential risk of landslides due to the thick layer of basalt and wet sand. Meanwhile, points BL-03 and BL-05 are more ideal locations for construction because they consist of relatively stable hard rock. Point BL-06 outside the development zone has layers of gravel, weathered tuffa and andesite which could be considered for future development. Thus, a deep understanding of the geological characteristics of each point is important to manage risks and ensure the safety and sustainability of construction projects in that area.

Geoelectric Interpretation of Wenner-Schlumberger Configuration Using Res2Dinv Software: A Case Study of 2D Mapping of Seawater Intrusion in a Landslide Potential Area, North Halmahera District, Indonesia

Research has been carried out on landslides in Saluta-Pelita Village, North Galela District, North Halmahera Regency, Indonesia using the Wenner-Schlumberger method using a Geoelectric Resistivity tool - Naunira NRD 300 HF. This research aims to determine the structure of the subsurface layer in the potential landslide area of Saluta-Pelita Village. In addition, this research aims to determine the slip plane (boundary layer) of sea water intrusion in the research area. The measurement results are processed using Res2Dinv software for 2D resistivity which describes the subsurface layer shown in color. The measurement results on track 1 show a clay layer with a resistivity value of 3.1 ohm -27 ohm at a distance of 1-80 meters (blue and green), a silt layer of 44.3 ohm - 184.1 ohm at a depth of 1-20 meters (Yellow) which is a slip plane (boundary layer) of sea water intrusion with a path length of 40 meters, conglomerate 210 ohm (red) at a depth of more than 7.50 meters. In track 2 there is a layer of clay with a resistivity of 1.4 ohm - 39 ohm at a depth of 1-24 meters (blue and green), silt 43.1 m-185.6 m (yellow) is the slip plane (layer boundary) of sea water intrusion with a 95 meter long track, a conglomerate layer with a resistivity of 203.4 ohm - 407.8 ohm (red) at a depth of more than 12.8 meters. On track 3 there is a layer of clay with a resistivity of 0.186 ohm - 31.4 ohm (blue and green) at a depth of up to 24 meters with a length of more than 120 meters, silt with a resistivity value of 44.4 ohm - 189 ohm (yellow) which is a slip plane (boundary layer) sea water intrusion with a path of 65 meters at a depth of 2.50 meters-24.9 meters.

Geospatial analysis of soil resistivity and hydro-parameters for groundwater assessment

Groundwater is a precious resource for irrigating the crops in developing countries. This research was governed in Faisalabad District of Pakistan to assess the groundwater strata using GIS cum geoelectric resistivity method approach. The IX1D computer model was calibrated with root mean square error (up-to 5%), to obtain true soil layers’ resistivities and thicknesses model for each VES point based on apparent resistivity data collected by ABEM SAS 4000 Terrameter using the most common Schlumberger electrode array setting. Knowledge of geo-hydraulic parameters (hydraulic conductivity, transmissivity, and porosity) aids in identifying the quality and potential of groundwater repositories, estimated based on modeling results (soil layers resistivities and thicknesses). Most common interpolation (inverse distance weighted) method in ArcGIS Pro was used for mapping the soil aquifer layers resistivities/thicknesses and geo-hydraulic parameters. Transmissivity, Porosity, and hydraulic conductivity values ranged from 365.46 to 1888.503 m2/day, 31.84 to 39.72% and 4.05 to 15.27 m/day for all surveys, respectively. Based on these results, aquifer layers with thicknesses 30 to 103.5 m, were distinguished as comprised of saline to low marginal quality (fine sand and clay formation), marginal to fresh quality (fine sand and gravel formation) and fresh quality groundwater (coarse sand and gravel formation).Graphical

Groundwater potential zones identification using geoelectrical resistivity sounding and GIS in upper Metro sub-catchment, Malang, Indonesia

Recently, Upper Metro Sub-Catchment and its surroundings have witnessed intensive land investments. The lack of surface water and the human activities of this region increase the demand for groundwater. Several water boreholes were installed to meet the large water needs; however, these boreholes no longer cover the high demand for water due to the increase in population, increase in irrigated areas, and wear and tear on pumps. Therefore, in order to better define the catchment area and find new sites that meet the water quality and quantity requirements, a geoelectrical survey using the electrical resistivity method was carried out in the upper Metro sub-catchment potentials. Using the Schlumberger array, a total of 19 vertical electrical soundings were conducted along 2 profiles. The recorded data were interpreted quantitatively and qualitatively through the use of apparent resistivity maps, geoelectrical pseudo-section analysis, and the established geoelectric sections. In this study, we identified sandstone tuff as an aquifer layer at a depth of 20 – 100 meters. So it can be known that there are 3 zones of groundwater potential consisting of poor, medium, and high.

Identification Of Soil Resistivity Distribution In Ekoriparian Leuwi Padjadjaran Area Using 2D Electrical Resistivity Method

Research focused on the identification of soil resistivity distribution at the Ekoriparian Leuwi Padjadjaran area, University of Padjadjaran, Jatinangor, has been conducted using geoelectric resistivity method 2D with dipole - dipole configuration. Three survey lines were measured with the first and second lines being 2 meters long and the third line measuring 6 meters. Electrode spacing was set at 0.2 meters, with 10 electrodes on the first and second lines, and 30 electrodes on the third line. Data processing is done using the Res2Dinv software. The research results indicated that resistivity values in the range of 4.00 Ωm to 20.0 Ωm were interpreted as clay rocks, values from 20 Ωm to 200 Ωm were interpreted as silt rocks, and resistivity values in the range of 256 Ωm to 1024 Ωm were interpreted as sandy clay rocks. Based on the geology of the study area, the soil is a fine-grained soil, namely silt and sandy loam.

Optimizing Current Injection Technique for Enhancing Resistivity Method

Geo-electrical resistivity methods are widely used in various fields and have significant applications in scientific and practical research. Despite the widespread use of resistivity methods, current injection is a critical step in the process of resistivity methods, and the quality of current injection significantly impacts the accuracy of the resistivity measurements. One primary challenge is optimizing current injection techniques to enhance resistivity methods. The developed current injector model for the resistivity meter instrument enhances performance by increasing the voltage source to 400 Volts, extending measurement coverage. It provides three injection current options, 0.5A, 0.8A, and 1A, for efficient accumulator use, considering electrode distances and estimating earth resistance using Contact Resistance Measurement (CRM) to estimate the earth resistance. CRM mode ensures proper electrode connection before injection, thus improving measurement efficiency. The embedded TTGO LoRa ESP32 SX1276 facilitates wireless communication over 1.5 km, addressing challenges in remote and internet-limited areas. The model demonstrates reliability, validity, and durability in CRM mode and current injection measurement. Regarding reliability, we determine the relative error of the model by carrying out measurements repeatedly. In lab-scale testing, the average Relative Error in CRM mode is 0.65%, and in earth resistance measurement testing, it is 1.58%. These relative errors are below the 2% maximum error applied in the “Supersting”, a commercial resistivity instrument. The model's validity is defined by comparing the model with the measuring instrument; we have absolute error. In lab scale testing, the average Absolute Error in CRM mode is 3.08%, and in earth resistance measurement testing, it is 3.73%. The model's durability is tested by injecting current for a minute. After one minute of current injection, the power resistor component's temperature is stable at 30°C.

Optimizing Current Injection Technique for Enhancing Resistivity Method

Geo-electrical resistivity methods are widely used in various fields and have significant applications in scientific and practical research. Despite the widespread use of resistivity methods, current injection is a critical step in the process of resistivity methods, and the quality of current injection significantly impacts the accuracy of the resistivity measurements. One primary challenge is optimizing current injection techniques to enhance resistivity methods. The developed current injector model for the resistivity meter instrument enhances performance by increasing the voltage source to 400 Volts, extending measurement coverage. It provides three injection current options, 0.5A, 0.8A, and 1A, for efficient accumulator use, considering electrode distances and estimating earth resistance using Contact Resistance Measurement (CRM) to estimate the earth resistance. CRM mode ensures proper electrode connection before injection, thus improving measurement efficiency. The embedded TTGO LoRa ESP32 SX1276 facilitates wireless communication over 1.5 km, addressing challenges in remote and internet-limited areas. The model demonstrates reliability, validity, and durability in CRM mode and current injection measurement. Regarding reliability, we determine the relative error of the model by carrying out measurements repeatedly. In lab-scale testing, the average Relative Error in CRM mode is 0.65%, and in earth resistance measurement testing, it is 1.58%. These relative errors are below the 2% maximum error applied in the “Supersting”, a commercial resistivity instrument. The model's validity is defined by comparing the model with the measuring instrument; we have absolute error. In lab scale testing, the average Absolute Error in CRM mode is 3.08%, and in earth resistance measurement testing, it is 3.73%. The model's durability is tested by injecting current for a minute. After one minute of current injection, the power resistor component's temperature is stable at 30°C.

Groundwater Potential Evaluation and Aquifer Characterization using Direct Current Resistivity Method in Wasinmi South-West Nigeria

The effectiveness in near-surface characterization makes geoelectrical resistivity techniques viable for groundwater exploration, geotechnical studies and environmental investigations. Geo-electric soundings were carried out in 25 different locations in Wasinmi, South-West Nigeria to acquire aquifer properties required for groundwater production of the study area using Direct Current Resistivity (DCRE) of Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) utilizing AGI Super-sting Earth Resistivity meter with schlumberger configuration; current electrode spacing (AB) ranging from 1 to maximum of 100 m and the potential electrodes (MN) were consequently changed from 0.25 m to 5 m respectively. The simulated results of the 25 VES points reveal the presence of 3 to 4 geo-electric layers. The top layer comprises clay, sand, siltstone intercalations. Layers underneath the top soil are the Lithified Laterite, Clayey Sand, Clay/Shale, Sandy Clay and Limestone/Sandstone, Saturated, Sandstone Aquifer. The area is also characterized with relatively high depth to sandstone aquifer which varies from 20 m to 69.1 m. This can be attributed to the thick water saturated Shale/Clay and Clayey Sand in the area. However, at the extreme of North-Western part of the study area, depths to aquifer are far lower, with VES location VESWAS15 having a thickness of about 14.4 m. Aquifer thickness in the study area varied from 14.4m to 63.5m. VESWAS19 has the highest aquifer resistivity value (2473 Ωm) in the study area, with depth to aquifer of 69.1 m. The transmissivity varies between 0.17695×/s in VESWAS4 to 8.97654×/s in VESWAS13. This study further shows that aquifer resistivity values vary from 284 Ωm to 2473 Ωm with a range of 2189 with the resistivity values suggesting lithology in the suite of Sandy Clay, Sandstone and Karst Limestone found to be widespread in the study area with mean aquifer thickness value of 32.25 m and a variance of 124.63 m...

Delineation of seawater intrusion in the Yanbu industrial area, northwest Saudi Arabia, using geoelectric resistivity sounding survey

Eleven Schlumberger array vertical electrical soundings were done at specified places in the Yanbu industrial sector, northwest Saudi Arabia, to identify possible seawater intrusion that may influence the shallow groundwater aquifer along the city's coastline zone. The variations of the resistivity values indicate the subdivision of the study area into two zones. These zones are characterized by different VES curve types; the Q-type and the H-type which dominate in the western and the eastern zones, respectively. VES data show three geoelectric resistivity layers. The first layer is an inhomogeneous layer with a wide range of resistivities correlated to Quaternary sediments (ranges from gravel, and sand to silt and clay) of variable lithology and water content. The resistivity of the second layer indicates abundant clay with a local change in the lithology to become gravel and coarse sand. The third layer shows a sudden and sharp variation of the resistivities; indicating a possible fault affected the coastal plain. This faulting system uplifts the basement, which may operate as an impermeable or sealing wall to prevent seawater from entering the shallow groundwater aquifer in the west. Most seawater intrusion in the studied area is regulated by faulting and lateral lithologic changes.

Stability and uncertainty assessment of geoelectrical resistivity model parameters: a new hybrid metaheuristic algorithm and posterior probability density function approach

Abstract. Estimating a reliable subsurface resistivity structure using conventional techniques is challenging due to the nonlinear nature of the inverse problems. The performance of the inversion techniques can be pretty ambiguous based on the optimal error, although traditional methods have proven to be quite effective. In this work, the impacts of the constraints accessible from a borehole are examined for further assessment and to enhance algorithm effectivity. The vPSOGWO strategy is a new approach that is based on a model search space without any prior information, and it describes the hybridization of particle swarm optimization (PSO) with the Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO). To understand the efficiency and novelty of the algorithm, it has been validated on two different kinds of synthetic resistivity data with various sets of noise and, subsequently, applied to three field datasets of different geological terrains. The analyzed results suggest that the subsurface resistivity model shows considerable uncertainty. Thus, it is superior to examine the histograms and posterior probability density functions (PDFs) of such solutions to exemplify the global solution. A PDF with a 68.27 % confidence interval (CI) selects a region with a higher probability. Therefore, the inverted models are used to estimate the mean global solution and the most negligible uncertainties, where the mean global solution represents the best solution. Our vPSOGWO-inverted outcomes have been proven to be more accurate than classic PSO, GWO, and state-of-the-art variants of classic approaches. As a result, this novel method plays a vital role in vertical electrical sounding (VES) data inversion.

Wastewater leakage identification in WWTP and concrete pipelines using integrated geophysical imaging methods

Industry and mining activities covers a broad spectrum of processes that dispose an abundant amount of wastewater. Given the vast array of industries, there are equally large number of heavy metals, organic solvents, and hydrocarbons pollutants associated with its wastewater, posing a great threat to aquifers, especially groundwater. Main contributor of this polluting scheme are from the leakage of underground/surface storage tanks, effluent pipework, industrial sewers, and waste injection system. To ascertain the presence of pollution in the subsoil and groundwater resources, an integrated geophysical method can be the alternative of non-invasive methods. The presence of contaminants in subsoil alters the physical properties of rock formations and decrease pore-water resistance, therefore it can be mapped by geoelectrical resistivity. In this paper, study case was conducted in Medan Industrial Estate, Indonesia, to identify potential leakage under the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) and its pipework, using Geoelectrical Wenner and Magnetotelluric Method with 5 lines in the interval of 40-60 meters and Magnetotelluric Method throughout the 175 meters of pipework in the production area. Based on the Geoelectrical Method, an anomaly with a low resistivity value was detected within 7 meters of the ground depth. Meanwhile, in the Magnetotelluric Method, a moderate permittivity value was detected that is local and located within 2 meters depth which is where the pipe and the bottom of the WWTP storage tank is located. In conclusion, based on the results obtained from the Geoelectrical and Magnetotelluric Methods that have been carried out in the WWTP area and along the wastewater pipeline leading to the WWTP, no anomalies were found that lead to waste water leakage.

Analysis on The Status of Deep-well Geo-electrical Resistivity Observation in China Geoelectric Network

With the deterioration of the observation environment and the increasing interference of surface stray currents, the commonly used surface resistivity observation is facing severe challenges. China began to experiment and develop deep-well geo-electrical resistivity observation. In this paper, the characteristics of the observation system of each resistivity station are counted and analyzed, and the data quality of the deep-well geo-electrical resistivity observation and the ground resistivity observation at the same site is compared in terms of relative standard deviation and annual variation. The results show that the operation of deep-well geo-electrical resistivity observation stations is in good condition, and its data quality and anti-interference ability are superior to ground resistivity observations. The results provide support for the popularization and application of deep-well geo-electrical resistivity observation technology, which can better serve seismic analysis and prediction.