Geophysical Techniques Research Articles

Implications to basin evolution from the interpretation of superficial and buried geological features from remote sensing and magnetic data sets, Lower and Middle Benue Trough, Nigeria

The Lower and Middle Benue Trough is an intra-continental rifted basin with most rocks concealed by thick sediments and vegetation. Geological field mapping is very difficult resulting in high uncertainties. Remote sensing and geophysical techniques can assist in refining lithological boundaries and detecting buried geological features such as intrusive bodies, which can be very useful in interpreting the structural history of a basin. The main aim of our study is to re-process and interpret aeromagnetic and multispectral satellite datasets to understand the evolution of the Benue Trough. We used high-resolution aeromagnetic data and, Landsat 8 and ASTER data sets to interpret surface and near-surface lithologies, particularly igneous bodies, within the Benue Trough, Nigeria, with the aim of better constraining the basin evolution in time and space. A matched bandpass filter was applied to the aeromagnetic data to separate shallow/near-surface (residual) anomalies from deep (regional) anomalies. The result of the residual anomaly was further filtered by derivative-based filters to delineate surface/near-surface igneous bodies. The satellite remote sensing datasets were processed and enhanced, and diagnostic mineral spectral signatures related to geology were interpreted. A spectral angle mapping (SAM) supervised classification was used to map various lithologies and their boundaries. The delineated igneous bodies (volcanic rocks, plugs, dykes, bosses, and sills) are concentrated along the SE margin of the Trough where they intruded along a major NE-SW trend; but changes in the intrusion style are interpreted to relate to specific stages in the basin history. We suggest that the initial magma emplacement was controlled by structures mostly along the SE margin of an asymmetric basin, but the rifting locus later migrated towards the centre of the present basin.

Geophysical delineation of the newly identified Gulmarg fault in the Kashmir Basin, NW Himalaya. Implications for active structural control

The Kashmir Basin, shaped by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, features prominent faults, including the Balapur fault and other fault zones. This study focuses on the Gulmarg fault within the Northwestern Himalaya, using advanced geomagnetic techniques for delineation. Geomagnetic measurements reveal the characteristics of the newly identified Gulmarg fault. Ground magnetic surveys with Proton Precession Magnetometers along linear profiles and a magnetic grid highlight fault-related anomalies. The results indicate a fault running through the Gulmarg meadows, approximately 1.6 ​km from the Balapur fault, suggesting a potential coupling between the two. Three profiles across the fault exhibit distinctive magnetic variations, highlighting the intricate nature of the fault structure. Gridding methods also reveal anomalies associated with subsurface water and hydraulic activities, underscoring the importance of advanced geophysical techniques. This study emphasizes the significance of detailed investigations to unravel the complex geological processes shaping the Kashmir Basin. The study provides valuable insights into the tectonic activity in the Gulmarg region, underscoring the role of geophysical studies in enhancing our understanding of dynamic geological structures like the Gulmarg fault zone.

Assessment of different agricultural soil compaction levels using shallow seismic geophysical methods

A well-developed soil structure is crucial for a fertile soil and rules its influence on the ecosystem. Slight variations in the way soil components are organized and connected can greatly impact the soil mechanical and hydraulic characteristics. However, these features are challenging to measure at a scale that is relevant for agricultural management. In this study, we assess the capability of two seismic geophysical methods, i.e. Seismic Refraction Tomography and Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves, to monitor the effects of compaction on agricultural bare soil. The purpose is to highlight the different mechanical response caused both by soil plastic deformation and soil water distribution due to increasing compaction. Results demonstrate that both geophysical techniques provide sufficient information to capture the effects of soil compaction and distinguish its significance, while traditional direct measurements, being punctual, lack sufficient spatial coverage. P-wave velocities carry a strong imprint of soil compaction, provided by seismic refraction, incorporating the information given by the multiphase medium in its entirety. On the other hand, S-wave velocity derived from Surface Waves discriminates the effect of solid matrix structure. This work, moreover, aims to pave the way for seismic methods to spatially characterize compaction at field scale, illustrating its potential and suggesting possible developments.

Fine Shear-Wave Velocity Structures of Subsurface beneath the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area with Dense Seismic Array and SPAC Method

Abstract We apply the spatial autocorrelation (SPAC) method to construct the 3D subsurface shear-wave velocity structure model using the short-period dense seismic array (containing 725 nodal geophones) located at the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay area (GBA). We first divided the dense array into numerous subarrays, with each subarray consisting of nine nodal geophones, and obtained 562 subarrays that can provide 1D VS profiles of the same quantity. Then, the SPAC method and genetic algorithm are utilized to extract the dispersion curve of the Rayleigh wave from the raw microtremor data and invert VS structure, respectively. Finally, a 3D VS structure model from the surface to 3.3 km depth is derived by combining all 1D VS structures. Relatively low-velocity anomalies above 700 m are considered unconsolidated shallow sediments as well as relatively high-velocity anomalies beneath 1100 m are attributed to consolidated granite bedrock. Meanwhile, low-velocity anomalies that are identified through the vertical VS profile at a depth of about 900–3000 m can be contributed to the fractured zone, and striped low-velocity anomalies in the horizontal VS maps reveal the location of the deeply buried faults in the study area. The results also mean that the SPAC method combined with the records of short-period dense seismic array can be effectively applied to image subsurface structures in high-populated urban area. The development of this noise-resistance and environment-friendly geophysical technique provides a reliable and effective way to explore the complicated subsurface geological structures, which is of great significance to urban engineering construction and earthquake disaster reduction work in densely populated urban agglomerations.

A rapid detection method for diesel content in diesel-contaminated soil based on dielectric measurement and oven-drying tests

Geophysical testing techniques have been successfully applied to identify light non-aqueous phase liquids in soils, but challenges remain in rapidly detecting contaminant content. Detection of contaminants in soil using geophysical testing techniques relies on sensors sensitive to electrical and electromagnetic parameter changes. In this study, the complex permittivity of silty clay contaminated with 0# diesel was measured using an open-ended coaxial probe at frequencies from 200–3000 MHz, and the four-phase dielectric mixing models were evaluated. The measurement results showed that the complex refractive index method (CRIM) model provided a better match with the real permittivity of the four-phase system between 500–3000 MHz with relative errors within an acceptable range of 4%. To eliminate the unknown variable in the CRIM model, an improved equation for the relationship between water content and diesel content of the watery diesel-contaminated silty clay was established by the oven-drying method. Thus, a method for the rapid quantitative detection of the diesel content in contaminated soil has been developed based on dielectric measurement and oven-drying tests. The relative error between the calculated and actual set diesel content for ten manually configured diesel-contaminated soil samples was within 10%, with a maximum error of 15.75%.

Appraisal of lacustrine aquifer’s groundwater potentiality and its hydrogeological modelling in southeastern Peshawar, Pakistan: implications for environmental geology, and geotechnical engineering

The Peshawar Basin is a part of the lower Himalayas that contains an enormous amount of groundwater storage. The evaluation of groundwater potential in the southern Peshawar district was done using well logging, lithostratigraphic properties, and combined hydrogeological and geophysical techniques. A total of 13 Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) profiles were utilised to assess potential groundwater zones for surface resistivity studies. The aquifer system was delineated by comparing the data from five boreholes with the VES findings. An exploration of super-saturated groundwater potential was conducted, utilising parameters such as transmissivity (T), hydraulic conductivity (K), storativity, and the Dar Zarrouk analysis. The Dar Zarrouk analysis yielded average values of transverse resistance (TR), longitudinal conductance (S), and anisotropy (λ), which were determined to be 8069.12, 0.51, and 0.561, respectively. Similarly, average values of transmissivity (T), hydraulic conductivity (K), and storativity were obtained, resulting in 28.67, 0.24, and 0.000177, respectively. The saturated confined layer, characterized by highly saturated zones, was identified to begin at a depth of approximately 119 m and extend down to the lower boundary of the aquifer. The examined aquifer is composed of clay, sand, gravel, boulders, and loose layers of lacustrine mud that are interlayered to form an unconsolidated groundwater aquifer system. The aquifers in the region are highly developed and consisted of unconfined, semi-confined, and confined aquifer systems. As a result, it is possible to use the aquifer for groundwater development in the study area because of its low -to-medium discharge.

Enhancing Seismic Performance: A Comprehensive Study on Masonry and Reinforced Concrete Structures Considering Soil Properties and Environmental Impact Assessment

Approximately 20,000 people are killed annually on average by building and infrastructure collapses and failures caused by seismic activities. In earlier times, seismic design codes and specifications set minimal requirements for life safety performance levels. Earthquakes can be thought of as recurring events in seismically active areas, with severity states ranging from serviceability to ultimate levels. Buildings designed in accordance with site-specific response spectra, which take into account soil properties based on ground motion amplification data, are better at withstanding such forces and serving their design purposes. This study aims to investigate the site response of reinforced and masonry buildings, considering the effect of soil properties based on the amplification of ground motion data, and to compare the life cycle assessment of the buildings under consideration based on the design and the site-specific response spectrum. In terms of soil properties and site-specific response spectra, STRATA is used to determine the site-specific response for the considered locations for a return period of 475 years for 100 realizations based on the randomization of site properties. For structural analysis, AxisVM software, which is a compatible finite element analysis, is used for building design and analysis, generating comparative results based on the design- and site-specific spectra. To determine and identify potential failures in the model, response spectra were applied to understand the difference in horizontal deflection in two different instances (for elastic design- and site-specific spectra). After building design and analysis is performed, a life cycle analysis in terms of environmental impact assesments using OpenLCA and IdematLightLCA is done. This is done to ascertain the additional expenses in terms of ecocosts and carbon footprints on some failed elements in the structure which are required to make the buildings more resilient when the site-specific response spectrum is applied and to compare the potential economic losses that may occur based on ecological costs. The study presents a comprehensive investigation into the seismic response of masonry and reinforced concrete buildings in Győr, Hungary, incorporating advanced geophysical techniques like multichannel surface wave (MASW) and structural analysis software, AxisVM. Additionally, tailored retrofitting strategies are explored to enhance structural resilience in seismic-prone regions. Significant ground amplifications in soil properties across different profiles are revealed, emphasizing the effectiveness of these strategies in reducing structural deflection and improving resilience. Highlights of the results are observed where the site-specific response spectra are higher than the EC8 design response spectrum. Furthermore, the research underscores the substantial environmental impact, considering both ecocosts and CO2 emissions associated with retrofitting measures, highlighting the importance of sustainable structural interventions in mitigating seismic risks.

Forensic geoscience non-invasive detection and characterisation of underground clandestine complexes, bunkers, tunnels and firing ranges

Recent events in conflict zones have emphasized that the successful detection and characterisation of buried clandestine complexes, bunkers and tunnels is vitally important for forensic investigators globally, to reduce or solve criminal activities, address national security threats and avoid potential terrorist attacks. However, this can often prove very difficult, particularly in urban areas, with potentially both below-ground non target items and above-ground infrastructures present, that can interfere with detecting target(s).Here we provide selected successful case studies where forensic geoscience techniques were used to detect and characterise buried clandestine complexes, bunkers and tunnels using different geophysical techniques. Generally, desktop studies assessing pre-existing information, including local geology, soils, historical/modern remote sensing, maps and photographs inform appropriate geophysical survey technique(s) selection. Subsequent near-surface geophysical techniques are then employed to produce accurate plans of sub-surface targets, with numerical modelling and correction for the interfering effects of above ground infrastructure, enabling the calibration of geophysical datasets to provide confidence in their respective interpretations.All forensic investigations are, of course, unique to every site, and thus require an individual approach to their respective ground conditions. Investigations should be both phased and iterative, with techniques tailored to local conditions: the selection of geophysical method(s) is crucial to improve successful detection rates of such important buried targets.

Seismic characterisation of the subsoil under a historic building: Cathedral Church of Saint Mary in Murcia case study

This research focuses on the Cathedral Church of Saint Mary in Murcia, Spain, which is located in a moderate-to-high seismic risk zone in the Spanish context. The study uses geophysical techniques and geotechnical investigation to characterise seismic ground models at the building's scale, aiming to understand the real amplification of the ground under seismic effect in historic buildings. Three soil layers (silt, sand with gravel, and gravel) were identified through core borings. Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW) profiles and Mini-array profiles revealed Vs values of 305 ± 32 m/s, 296 ± 62 m/s, and 440 ± 38.5 m/s, respectively, for these materials. Seismic Refraction Tomography (SRT) showed Vp values of 586 ± 73 m/s, 700 m/s, and 1466 ± 489 m/s for the corresponding layers. The horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio (HVSR) approach identified a ground predominant period ranging from 0.37 to 0.38 s. Another significant peak at 2.3 s is observed, probably associated to the Triassic basement. Three seismic events with magnitudes Mw between 4.9 and 5.1 were used as inputs to determine the amplification factor (AF). The results indicate a PGA amplification factor between 1.7 and 2.1. These results contribute to the conservation and mitigation of seismic risk of this cultural heritage generating input data that enables precise computation of the soil-structure interaction.

Characterizing mudstones and fault structure in Bumita Quarry, Perlis through integrated geophysical techniques

The parameters of seismic refraction and electrical resistivity play a crucial role in geological studies, as they provide insights into the composition of rocks or soil beneath the Earth’s surface. Previous researchers have established reference ranges for seismic velocity and resistivity values based on different rock types, which are presented in tabulated forms. However, the wide variability in these values sometimes leads to challenges in interpretation due to overlapping ranges. In the region of Perlis, Malaysia, a comprehensive geophysical investigation involving seismic refraction and electrical resistivity methods was conducted within the Chepor Member of the Kubang Pasu Formation at the Bumita Quarry and Utan Aji. The results were then correlated with porosity and permeability data. The Chepor Member primarily comprises both red mudstone and grey mudstone. Interestingly, the seismic velocities of these two mudstone types are quite similar, differing only by a small margin of approximately 200 m/s. The resistivity method employed utilized a pole-dipole array configuration. In terms of resistivity values, the red mudstone exhibited lower readings (ranging from 15 to 100 Ωm) compared to the grey mudstone (ranging from 120 to 500 Ωm). Assessing porosity, the red mudstone displayed a value of 0.95%, alongside a permeability of 5.58×10-5 μd, while the grey mudstone indicated a slightly higher porosity value of 1.9% and a permeability of 2.06×10-5 μd. Consequently, the study successfully established seismic velocity and resistivity benchmarks for the mudstones within the Chepor Member geological unit.

Experimental study of geophysical and transport properties of salt rocks in the context of underground energy storage

AbstractArtificial caverns in salt rock formations play an important role in the net‐zero energy transition challenge, both for covering short‐term fluctuations in energy demand and serving as safe locations for long‐term underground gas storage both for hydrogen and natural gas. Geophysical tools can serve for monitoring geomechanical changes in the salt cavern during selection and development, and during gas storage/extraction activities, but the use of common geophysical monitoring techniques has been very limited in this area. Here, we present experimental work on physical and transport properties of halite rocks within the energy storage context and assess the potential of seismic and electromagnetic data to monitor gas storage activities in salt formations. First, we analysed the stress‐dependency of the elastic and transport properties of five halite rocks to improve our understanding on changes in the geological system during gas storage operations. Second, we conducted two dissolution tests, using cracked and intact halite samples, monitored with seismic (ultrasonic P‐ and S‐waves velocities and their attenuation factors) and electromagnetic (electrical resistivity) sources to evaluate (i) the use of these common geophysical sensing methods to remotely interpret caverning development and (ii) the effect of structural discontinuities on rock salt dissolution. Elastic properties and permeability showed an increasing trend towards rock sealing and mechanical enhancement with increasing pressure for permeabilities above 10−21 m2, with strong linear correlations up to 20 MPa. In the dissolution tests, the ultrasonic waves and electrical resistivity showed that the presence of small structural discontinuities largely impacts the dissolution patterns. Our results indicate that seismic and electromagnetic methods might help in the selection and monitoring of the caverning process and gas storage operations, contributing to the expected increase in demand of large‐scale underground hydrogen storage.

Noise suppression of airborne transient electromagnetic data with minimum curvature

The airborne transient electromagnetic (ATEM) method is a geophysical exploration technique that offers several advantages, including rapid exploration, minimal interference from complex terrains, dense data sampling, and environmental friendliness. However, the full-frequency time-domain secondary field signal acquisition of the ATEM data is susceptible to various electromagnetic interferences, resulting in noise in the collected data. This noise complicates subsequent processing and interpretation. To address this issue, we have developed a 1D minimum-curvature difference equation with unequal spacing based on minimum-curvature differential equations. Through research, we develop an ATEM noise-suppression method based on multiple single-step and multiple superposition-step implicit iterative formats. In addition, we have investigated the convergence of explicit and implicit iterative schemes via Fourier spectrum analysis and proven that the implicit iterative schemes converge. This method effectively suppresses noise in synthetic and real ATEM data during processing. Our results show that the minimum-curvature method is particularly effective in suppressing sferic and Gaussian noises in ATEM data. As a result, our method provides high-quality and reliable ATEM data for further data processing and interpretation. Moreover, the minimum-curvature method is also capable of suppressing noise in ground and ground-space transient electromagnetic data, as well as magnetotelluric data noise. Therefore, this method exhibits a wide range of potential applications.

Modeling and interpretation of electrical resistivity data in anisotropic media using a generalized regression neural network: A case study on the Lokbatan mud volcano, Azerbaijan

This study explores the electrical anisotropy effects in a vertical electrical sounding dataset acquired from the Lokbatan mud volcano in Azerbaijan. Vertical electrical sounding is a fundamental geophysical technique for mapping subsurface resistivity distributions; however, electrical anisotropy is a factor often ignored, can significantly influence field measurements, especially with respect to layer thicknesses. This study investigates electrical anisotropy effects on vertical electrical sounding data using generalized regression neural networks for estimating parameters of layered subsurface. Schlumberger electrode arrays were employed for these purposes with a 22-sounding dataset. In general, a classical approach for estimating electrical anisotropy coefficient fails. Vertical and horizontal resistivity values cannot be estimated using vertical electrical sounding data. Thus, generalized regression neural networks are considered. The generalized regression neural networks for appraising parameters of electrical anisotropy can be used with keeping vertical resistivity higher than horizontal resistivity in each layer as an assumption. Further, the proposed method applied how the surrounding clay-rich geological material and layered structure influence electrical properties of the Lokbatan mud volcano in Azerbaijan. As a conclusion, without considering electrical anisotropy makes interpretation erroneous especially with respect to layer thicknesses.

Analysis of structural integrity through the combination of non-destructive testing techniques in heritage inspections: The study case of San Segundo's hermitage (Ávila, Spain)

The establishment of proper conservation and preservation actions has become one of the major concerns for historic cities. Given that possible damage affecting these buildings can be fast-acting and irreversible, the evaluation of the damage origin must be faced from the application of different prospecting possibilities adapted to the specific conditions of the approach. In this regard, the application of non-destructive testing techniques has become one of the most common practices for the characterization of pathologies in cultural heritage. The present research focuses on the analysis of the structural integrity of the Hermitage of San Segundo (center of Spain) through the application of these prospective methodologies that do not pose any damage to the asset. More specifically, the work combines geophysical and optical techniques (ground-penetrating radar, terrestrial laser scanner and drone with RGB camera, and infrared thermography) to provide a complete characterization of the analyzed building. Results show that the combination of the three non-destructive techniques allows detecting defects, defining their possible causes and providing a solid basis for future decision-making regarding maintenance and restoration actions. Methodological integration has shown that certain pathologies can only be detectable with specific techniques while others have been corroborated through the results obtained with the three testing methodologies.

An Integrated Geophysical Investigation for Detecting Seepage-prone Zones in the Basement of a Building

The underground basement of a building is highly affected by anomalous seepage problems. Detection of seepage-prone regions through and around buildings becomes a need in other to sustain their stability. It is of great importance as well to have targeted remedies. However, traditional methods for examining these areas are often destructive and expensive, compelling the use of non-destructive geophysical techniques. This work aims to utilize and demonstrate the hands-on application of ground penetrating radar (GPR) and self-potential (SP) methods as an innovative combination to study seepage-prone zones in the basement of a building. Simulated responses of various seepage zones have been generated based on several significant factors. For better visualization, all 2D radargrams of a block were combined to produce a 3D model using GPR Slice software to distinguish various features at different depths. Higher positive SP values show the presence of high moisture or seepage-prone regions. Conclusively, the combined geophysical method of GPR and SP is trustworthy for conducting a quick and effective inspection of seepage-prone regions and probable source points for detailed characterization of the basement of a building. Keywords: GPR, SP, Geophysical methods, Seepage, Basement.

Using Euler Deconvolution as Part of a Mineral Exploration Project

Mineral exploration projects can make considerable use of a variety of geophysical techniques and datasets, including magnetic and gravity data. The interpretation of large quantities of data can be very time consuming, so semi-automatic interpretation techniques are often used to provide initial estimates of the parameters (primarily the location and depth) of the sources of anomalies. Euler deconvolution is a commonly used interpretation method for potential fields which has a number of advantages over many other techniques, such as working in the presence of remanent magnetisation, and not being restricted to a particular model such as a contact. A second-order version of Euler’s equation is introduced here, which is much less affected by trends in the data than the standard method and additionally produces depth parabolas, which simplify the interpretation of results. The method was applied to aeromagnetic data from a mineral exploration project in Southern Africa and provided plausible results.

Simulating Tree Root Water Uptake in the Frame of Sustainable Agriculture for Extreme Hyper-Arid Environments Using Modeling and Geophysical Techniques

In order to ensure sustainability in the agricultural sector and to meet global food needs, a particularly important challenge for our time is to investigate the possibility of increasing agricultural production in areas with extreme hyper-arid environments. Warming air temperatures and sandy soils significantly influence tree root water uptake (RWU) dynamics, making accurate estimation of RWU depth distribution and magnitude crucial for effective resource management, particularly in the context of precision irrigation within agroecosystems. This study employed two non-invasive techniques, namely HYDRUS 1D and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), to simulate RWU under controlled experimental conditions and under an extreme hyper-arid environment. The results revealed that the highest RWU rates occurred during the morning (08:00–11:00). RWU activity predominantly concentrated in the upper soil profile (0–30 cm), and the soil water content in this area was notably lower compared to the deeper soil layers. With increasing temperature, there was a tendency for the RWU zone to shift to lower depths within the soil profile. The findings of this study could have important implications for farmers, providing valuable insights to implement irrigation water management strategies.

Vertical Electrical Sounding Technique as an Efficient and Rapid Tool for Groundwater Investigation in a Basaltic Environment at Kodana Station for the Shami goats. Case Study from Southern Syria

Geoelectrical survey was conducted by using vertical electrical sounding technique (VES) with adapting Schlumberger configuration, to locate and drill a borehole for groundwater extraction in the Kodana station for the Shami goats, Southern Syria. An integrated approach is proposed to increase the efficacy of the VES technique and to reduce the uncertainties and the high failures in locating and drilling a successful groundwater borehole. The approach is essentially based on analyzing the Dar-Zarrouk (D-Z) parameters with constraining several conditions to obtain the optimum hydro-geophysical model.The 1D inversion quantitative interpretation of twelve VES sounding points and the (D-Z) parameters allowed the characterization of the study area in terms of depth and the Neogene pyroclastic basalt aquifer. The result showed that VES point (V6) has the optimum and favorable properties for drilling a successful borehole in the area. The V6 has GPS coordinates of E: 3589614, N: 3301961 and Z: 770835m. The Neogene (fractured pyroclastic layer with rocks of basaltic composition) aquifer at this V6 point is characterized by a thickness (h) of 217m, a resistivity (ρ) of 227Ωm, a transverse resistance (R) of 49259 Ωm2, and an anisotropy parameter (λ) of 1.15. The advantages of the proposed approach are well proven and documented, in comparing with other techniques that require the combination of VES technique with other available geophysical techniques. The VES technique within the proposed approach is therefore recommended to be easily applied for groundwater investigations, and locating the suitable positions for drilling boreholes in similar worldwide basaltic environments.

Introduction to this special section: Gravity, electrical, and magnetic methods

Geophysics plays an important role in all aspects of geologic analysis, spanning from regional exploration and tectonic mapping to local prospect-level studies and energy transition projects. Out of a variety of geophysical techniques, seismic methods often play the most central role, while less expensive nonseismic methods are less frequently applied. One of the objectives of SEG's Gravity and Magnetics Committee is to promote nonseismic geophysical methods and showcase their value in various geologic applications. As members of that committee, we, the editors of this special section, assert that gravity, magnetic, and electrical methodologies are powerful yet often undervalued tools. We present this special section focused on nonseismic geophysical methods and the impact they can make on various geoscience projects. Included here are a regional tectonic study in Antarctica, a local mining exploration mapping project in Canada, and an analytical methodology capable of providing critical information about subsurface geology and helping to determine the depths of important geologic structures. Although our scope is to provide a broader discussion of different types of nonseismic techniques, all of the papers presented in this special section focus on magnetic surveying.

Groundwater Protection Assessment using Frequency Domain Electromagnetic Method and Direct Current Electrical Resistivity Method in Papalanto South-West Nigeria

The aim of this work is to assess the extent of protection of the subsurface hydrogeological structures. Fieldworks were performed integrated geophysical techniques namely Frequency Domain Electromagnetic Method (FDEM) using Geonics-EM-34 to determine the vertical and lateral variations of subsurface conductivity probing depths of 20m, 40m and 60m, while subsurface profiles were obtained using Direct Current Resistivity (DCRE) with AGI Super-sting Earth Resistivity meter; current electrode spacing (AB) ranging from 1 to maximum of 100m and the potential electrodes (MN) were consequently changed from 0.25m to 5m respectively. 1141.92 mmho/m was recorded as the highest true conductivity value for the Horizontal Dipole in the second layer (Profile EMPAP5) while the highest true conductivity value for the Vertical Dipole in the first layer was 134.31 mmho/m (Profile EMPAP1). Four principal geoelectric layers inferred from the VES data where the Topsoil is partly lateritic and alluvium, Sandy Clay/Clay/Silt, Sand/Clay/Shale, and Limestone/Sandstone. Resistivity values for these layers vary from 9.78 to 1428, 1.46 to 1057, 1.46 to 451, and 15 to 10,000 Ω m with corresponding thickness of 0.5m to1.43m, 1.29m to 13m, 2.8m to 84.4m and infinity, respectively. The higher resistivity values at the surface and extremes of both edges were indication of little or no presence of leachates or contaminant plume accumulation in other area. Also, there was a noticeable general decrease of resistivity values of formation rock with depth in these investigated areas; this is an indication that the plumes must have infiltrated rapidly into the subsurface through the massive presence of weathered rock materials of average lateral distances of 15m to 167m of considerable depth and thickness of about 24.9m. The degree of leachate contamination range from 0.0007264 mho to 0.668 mho with the highest value in VESPAP2 followed by VESPAP13 and VESPAP19 while VESPAP22 exhibited the lowest conductance.