Electrical Resistivity Tomography Method Research Articles

Geophysical and numerical approaches to solving the mechanisms of landslides triggered by earthquakes: A case study of Kahramanmaraş (6 February, 2023)

Many landslides occurred in the 11 Turkish provinces affected by the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş in February 2023, and many people lost their lives due to those landslides. To reduce the risks and hazards brought on by landslides induced by earthquakes, it is essential to identify the mechanisms causing landslides to arise in such situations. In this study, the geological strength index and both seismic refraction tomography and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) geophysical methods were used to determine the failure mechanism of layered sedimentary units defined as flysch (claystone-siltstone-sandstone-marl). The shear strength reduction finite element method (SSR-FEM) was used with the RS2 computer program for model solutions. One of the geophysical methods, ERT, facilitated an interpretation of the cyclic failure mechanism that occurs in flysch, and it was found to be congruent with numerical models. Landslide slip circle depth, water-saturated layers, and resistivity values were determined with the ERT method. Seismic methods were employed to determine the velocity values (Vp, Vs) of the landslip mass. These velocity data, along with the elasticity modulus and Poisson ratios derived from them, were utilized in our numerical model. In the maximum shear strength and horizontal displacement analyses performed on the section line determined before the landslide, the natural state and the situation under the influence of groundwater were examined and the strength reduction factor (SRF) was determined as 1.35 and 1.24, respectively. In an evaluation conducted under the influence of the maximum horizontal ground acceleration (0.22 g) determined by taking into account the seismicity of the study area, it was concluded that instability occurred in the flysches and the SRF value was 0.72. An important finding of this study is that the results of geophysical methods used to determine the lithological properties of sedimentary rock masses and understand the causes of landslides align closely with those of numerical analysis methods, providing high accuracy. These methods also support new approaches, particularly in identifying landslip boundaries and detecting areas with high water saturation. It has been discovered that earthquakes actively contribute to the instability of these kinds of soils.

Discontinuous permafrost detection from neural network-ensemble learning based electrical resistivity tomography

Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) is an effective method for detecting the distribution of permafrost. However, the general inversion method of ERT cannot satisfy the engineering designation demand, resulting in the foundation of thaw settlement in discontinuous permafrost regions. In this study, we proposed a neural network-ensemble learning inversion method to improve the detection accuracy of discontinuous permafrost. First, a series of different resistivity distributions was evaluated to establish forward models for the training of a backpropagation neural network (BPNN). The resistivity distributions of the forward models varied with the temperature gradient, similar to the resistivity distribution of real discontinuous permafrost. The bagging algorithm of ensemble learning was then used to optimize the BPNN inversion models. Finally, three discontinuous permafrost resistivity models and two field data examples are considered to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed inversion model. The inversion results of synthetic and field examples show that the neural network-ensemble learning model achieved a greater inversion effect with better accuracy and less noisy points than a single BPNN model or the Res2Dinv method. The trained ensemble learning inversion method has good application in field permafrost exploration.

Geoelectrical characterization of non-filled active faults in Jaral de Berrios, Guanajuato, México

Electromagnetic and electrical methods have a great number of applications and have become a commonly used tool for the study of active geological faults, where they are usually detected as low resistivity anomalies. However, this is not always the case. We used both Electromagnetic Profiling (EMP) and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) methods with the aim of mapping active geological faults which affect agricultural plots and a former quarry near the town of Jaral de Berrios, State of Guanajuato. The apparent resistivity map derived from EMP survey shows how NW-SE on site measured faults (which reach at least 400 m in length and 0.4 m in width) match with high apparent resistivity anomalies. Two ERT profiles reveal the subsurface continuity of the main fault zones, as well as the main high apparent resistivity lineaments, for at least 40 m below the surface. The resistive lineaments in the apparent resistivity map showed a coincidence with the faults modeled in the geoelectric section of the ERT1 profile; this result gives reliability to the methodology used in the study site. All of this means that faulting presently evident on the surface continues at depth and has a wider extension than previously thought, and that since the fractures are non-filled with minerals and/or moisture the preponderance of high resistivity anomalies make sense. The results of this work provide the basis for future studies that help in determining the type of faulting affecting our study area, so long term urban planning and development in the area may be possible.

Groundwater potential identification using electrical resistivity tomography method in Sendangrejo Village, Minggir District, Sleman Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta

Groundwater is vital element for living. One of methods to identify groundwater potential is Electricity Resistivity Tomography (ERT). This study aims to identify the groundwater potential occurrence in Sleman, Yogyakarta through non-destructive geoelectrical surveys. Based on the ERT models and geological information, supported by hydrogeological data in the research area, drilling a well at the planned location was deemed necessary to reach a depth of at least 100 to 250 meters in order to tap into the maximum groundwater potential. Groundwater is predicted to flow and accumulate in the pores and fractures of rocks. Well drilling in the northern part of section line 1 was more favourable and recommended due to the lower elevation compared to the area of section line 2, where the drill location was originally planned at a higher elevation uphill. Layers of hard rock, presumably lava and breccia, have already been found at a depth of 5 to 15 meters based on historical open well excavations around the area. Identifying the characteristics of subsurface volcanic rocks during drilling is suggested to evaluate drilling and well planning. Well logging should be conducted to collect lithostratigraphy and rock mass information. Further tests of hydraulic conductivity for each potential layer.

Influence of rheological parameters on the performance of the aerated coaxial mixer containing a pseudoplastic fluid

Gas dispersion in non-Newtonian fluids has numerous applications in many chemical and biochemical applications. However, the effect of the power-law model constants describing the rheological behavior of the pseudoplastic fluid has never been investigated. Thus, a numerical model was developed to simulate the hydrodynamics of gas dispersion in non-Newtonian fluids with a coaxial mixer. Then, a set of experiments was conducted to assess the mass transfer efficacy of a coaxial mixer to benchmark the numerical model. In this regard, various methods, including dynamic gassing-in and electrical resistance tomography methods, were used to quantify the mass transfer and gas hold-up profiles. The influence of fluid rheological properties, gas flow number, and rotating mode on the power consumption, mass transfer coefficient, bubble size profile, and hydrodynamics were examined both experimentally and numerically. The response surface model (RSM) was employed to explore the individual effects of power-law model constants on mass transfer. The RSM model utilized five levels for the consistency index (k), five levels for the flow index (n), and three levels for the gas flow number. The statistical model proposed that the absolute model constants for the flow and consistency indices were 0.0012 and 0.0010, respectively, for the co-rotating mixer. Conversely, for the counter-rotating mixer, these constants were 0.0010 and 0.0013, respectively. Therefore, this study revealed that the co-rotating coaxial mixer was well-suited for dispersing gas within a fluid with high consistency. In contrast, the counter-rotating mixer proved effective in enhancing gas dispersion within a fluid with a lower flow index.

2D and 3D Modelling Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) of Landslide Sliding and Weak Bedding Plane Along Mountain Road North Bengkulu-Lebong, Indonesia

The North Bengkulu-Lebong Mountain Road is prone to landslide disasters due to its geological susceptibility to land movement. This study aims to measure and assess the sliding plane on the mountain road, particularly in the layer with a soft rock structure, such as clay rock. The study utilizes 2D and 3D Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) methods with the Wenner-Schlumberger configuration to measure the resistivity of the rock layers.The research includes one 2D measurement point and one 3D ERT measurement point, estimating actual resistivity values in each rock layer. Our results identify triggering and controlling factors for landslide disasters in the research area. The geological conditions consist of layers of clay (200-500 Ωm), wet clay (500-900 Ωm), dry clay (1000-3000 Ωm), weathering clay (500-1000 Ωm), aquifer (10-65 Ωm), perched aquifer (100-200 Ωm), weathering igneous rock (>10000 Ωm), and massive intrusive rock (>20000 Ωm). These geological conditions significantly influence the strength of landslide materials, with the sliding of the soft rock layer causing landslides and resulting in a large volume of landslide material. Other contributing factors to landslides in this location include slope, topography, and hydrology, with extreme slopes ranging from 33° to 55°, making it a very steep area with high potential for landslides.

Application of Electrical Resistivity Tomography in Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering Aspect

Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) has turned out to be one of the most applied and user-friendly geophysical methods in geotechnical and geoenvironmental research. ERT is an emerging technology that is becoming popular nowadays for investigating subsurface conditions. Multiple attributes of the technology using various electrode configurations significantly reduce measurement time and are suitable for applications even in hardly accessible mountain areas. It is a noninvasive test for subsurface characterization and a very sensitive method used to determine geophysical properties, i.e., structural integrity, water content, fluid composition, etc. This paper aimed to elucidate the ERT technique’s main features and applications in geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineering through four case studies. The first case study investigated the possible flow paths and areas of moisture accumulation after leachate recirculation in a bioreactor landfill. The second case study attempted to determine the moisture variation along highway pavement. The third case study explored the slope failure investigation by ERT. The fourth case study demonstrated the efficiency of the ERT method in the landfill evapotranspiration (ET) cover to investigate moisture variation on a broader scale and performance monitoring. In all of the four cases, ERT exhibited promising performance.

Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) Investigation for Landslides: Case Study in the Hunan Province, China

Electrical resistivity tomography is a non-destructive and efficient geophysical exploration method that can effectively reveal the geological structure and sliding surface characteristics inside landslide bodies. This is crucial for analyzing the stability of landslides and managing associated risks. This study focuses on the Lijiazu landslide in Zhuzhou City, Hunan Province, employing the electrical resistivity tomography method to detect effectively the surrounding area of the landslide. The resistivity data of the deep strata were obtained, and the corresponding geophysical characteristics are inverted. At the same time, combined with the existing drilling data, the electrical structure of the landslide body is discussed in detail. The inversion results reveal significant vertical variations in the landslide body’s resistivity, reflecting changes in rock and soil physical properties. Combined with geological data analysis, it can be concluded that the sliding surface is located in the sandy shale formation. Meanwhile, by integrating various geological data, we can conclude that the landslide is currently in a creeping stage. During the rainy season, with rainfall infiltration, the landslide will further develop, posing a risk of instability. It should be promptly addressed through appropriate remediation measures. Finally, based on the results of two-dimensional inversion, this article constructs a three-dimensional surface morphology of the landslide body, which can more intuitively compare and observe the internal structure and material composition of the landslide body. This also serves as a foundation for the subsequent management and stability assessment of landslides, while also paving the way for exploring new perspectives on the formation mechanisms and theories of landslides.

Sensitivity volume as figure-of-merit for maximizing data importance in electrical impedance tomography

Objective. Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a noninvasive imaging method whereby electrical measurements on the periphery of a heterogeneous conductor are inverted to map its internal conductivity. The EIT method proposed here aims to improve computational speed and noise tolerance by introducing sensitivity volume as a figure-of-merit for comparing EIT measurement protocols. Approach. Each measurement is shown to correspond to a sensitivity vector in model space, such that the set of measurements, in turn, corresponds to a set of vectors that subtend a sensitivity volume in model space. A maximal sensitivity volume identifies the measurement protocol with the greatest sensitivity and greatest mutual orthogonality. A distinguishability criterion is generalized to quantify the increased noise tolerance of high sensitivity measurements. Main result. The sensitivity volume method allows the model space dimension to be minimized to match that of the data space, and the data importance to be increased within an expanded space of measurements defined by an increased number of contacts. Significance. The reduction in model space dimension is shown to increase computational efficiency, accelerating tomographic inversion by several orders of magnitude, while the enhanced sensitivity tolerates higher noise levels up to several orders of magnitude larger than standard methods.

The use of non-invasive ERT method to diagnose karst in roadengineering in the Lublin Upland (Poland)

Appropriate design in linear construction depends on many factors, including detailed geological conditions. One of the biggest problems are unrecognized erosion forms, in particular karst ones, which have a huge impact on the design and subsequent operation of roads. For this purpose, in addition to conventional methods such as drilling or geotechnical probing, which are point-based, non-invasive spatial geophysical methods are used. This article presents an example of the use of geoelectrical surveys, Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) for the recognition of karst zones for linear investments. The article describes ERT investigations, which to some extent allows to identify dangerous karst phenomena occurring in the Lublin Upland (Poland), which are of great importance at the design stage of roads and in their further safe operation. Non-invasive geophysical research has been verified and confirmed by traditional geotechnical research, which confirms the effectiveness of their use. The Electrical Resistivity Tomography was used as a method providing a broader spectrum of knowledge on the spatial arrangement of soil layers in the subgrade of the planned road investments. It also enabled a more accurate, more detailed interpretation of geotechnical studies. The described geophysical investigations opens wide possibilities for their application to researchers. In the future, non-invasive methods have a chance to become as reliable as geotechnical methods, but this requires a lot of research to improve the effectiveness and accuracy of the interpretation of the obtained results.

A framework for risk assessment of groundwater contamination integrating hydrochemical, hydrogeological, and electrical resistivity tomography method.

Groundwater contamination have been widely concerned. To reliably conduct risk assessment, it is essential to accurately delineate the contaminant distribution and hydrogeological condition. Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) has become a powerful tool because of its high sensitivity to hydrochemical parameters, as well as its advantages of non-invasiveness, spatial continuity, and cost-effectiveness. However, it is still difficult to integrate hydrochemical, hydrogeological, and ERT datasets for risk assessment. In this study, we develop a general framework for risk assessment by sequentially jointing hydrochemical, hydrogeological, and ERT surveys, while establishing petrophysical relationships among these data. This framework can be used in groundwater-contaminated site and help to delineate the distribution of contaminants. In this study, it was applied to a nitrogen-contaminated site where field ERT survey and borehole information provided valuable measurement data for validating the consistency of contamination and hydrogeological condition. Risk assessment was conducted based on the refined results by the establishment of relationship between conductivity and contaminants concentration with . The contamination source was identified and the transport direction was predicted with the good agreement of = 0.965 between simulated and observed groundwater head, which can help to propose measures for anti-seepage and monitoring. This study thus enhances the reliability of risk assessment and prediction through a thought-provoking innovation in the realm of groundwater environmental assessment.

Integrating near-surface geophysical methods and remote sensing techniques for reconstructing fault-bounded valleys (Mellieha valley, Malta)

The island of Malta (central Mediterranean) is dissected by several WSW-trending fault-line valleys related to Miocene-Pliocene extensional tectonics. Some valleys host remnants of alluvial deposits that could provide information on possible Quaternary faulting, but the thickness of these deposits and their subsurface extent is poorly constrained. Our study aimed to investigate the structural configuration of the southern sector of the Mellieha valley, which is located in the north-west part of the island and is limited by the ENE-WSW general trending Mellieha and Ghadira faults, and their relation with a thin layer of infill sediments. We employed different near-surface geophysical techniques (electrical resistivity tomography, active and passive seismic methods, ground-penetrating radar), as well as remote sensing techniques (unmanned aerial vehicle digital photogrammetry and ground-based Light Detection and Ranging) to complement classic structural surveys. The valley structure has an asymmetric graben configuration, being bounded by a normal fault to the southeast (Mellieha Fault) and other to the north-west (Ghadira Fault). Our study provides insights of possible Quaternary fault displacements and revealed the presence of an additional fault splay, the previously unmapped NNW-dipping Mellieha Fault 2 at the south-eastern edge of the valley. Additionally, by integrating results from geophysical surveys, we estimated the thickness of the valley's recent deposits, being thicker towards the Mellieha Bay sector, with maximum values of 8–10 m. Our study aligns with the general model of horst and graben structuring with associated regional tilting since the late Miocene, and supports the hypothesis that some segments of NW-trending normal faults within the North Malta Graben exhibit Quaternary activity, although with minimal throw rates (<< 0.1 mm/yr).

Determining the geological structure and underground caves using a multi-electrode resistivity imaging method

Subsidence hazards are common in Vietnam, occurring not only in mountainous regions but also in densely populated delta areas. There have been numerous subsidence incidents recorded in Thanhhoa province in the past. The results of geophysical measurements using the multi-electrode resistivity imaging method show: 1) The study area is located in an area of karst topography which includes a complex network of large and dense underground caves. 2) The geological structure of the study area can be divided into four layers with different resistivity anomalies, including a sedimentary cover ( = 13  39 m), strongly weathered layer ( = 40  150 m), less weathered layer ( = 151  214 m), and bedrock layer ( &gt;214 m); 3) Caves in the research area have 3 characteristics including cleft-shaped caves filled with sediment originating from the soil surface and containing a lot of water with an average depth of 7  15m; sealed caves surrounded by heavily weathered bedrock and no water inside; sealed caves containing water or hydrated material have a high risk of causing subsidence.

Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) for investigating subsurface structures in the karst area of the Ek Leuntie Cave, Aceh Province

Ek Leuntie Cave, in the southern city of Banda Aceh, Aceh Province, is recognized as an educational media based on geopark sites because it holds a 7400-year paleotsunami track record. As a karst area, Ek Leuntie Cave is vulnerable to the impact of geological disasters such as earthquakes, sinkholes and subsidence. As an effort to reduce the negative impact of geological disasters, geophysical studies have been applied in the Ek Leuntie Cave Karst area. The study aims to identify the subsurface geological structure of the Karst area. The identification was carried out using the Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) method of Wenner-Schlumberger configuration applied to two measurement trajectories that have South-North and West-East directions in front of the Ek Leuntie Cave door. ERT data acquisition results were then modeled in inversion using Res2Dinv software to produce a 2D model of the subsurface geological structure of the Ek Leuntie Cave karst area based on variations in rock resistivity values. Interpretation of subsurface geological structure modeling is validated with shallow drilling data (Hand Auger). The inversion modeling results show that the rock resistivity value in the Ek Leuntie Cave area reaches a depth of 30 m which has a resistivity value of 0 - 1000 Ωm. The results of the interpretation of resistivity values and validation of drill data show that the Ek Leuntie Cave area is covered by a layer of sand with fine to coarse texture and the layer below is a layer of limestone at a depth of ± 0.4 meters with a resistivity value of 50 - 250 Ωm. Limestone generally shows porosity with the possibility of caves or pores in the rock formation at Ek Leuntie Cave, making it vulnerable to damage from earthquakes, landslides, and subsidence. The results of the study are expected to provide updated information in efforts to develop the Ek Leuntie Cave geopark area.

Numeric Validation of the Inversion Model of Electrical Resistivity Imaging Method using the Levenberg-Marquardt Algorithm

This paper introduces a new application of the Electrical Resistivity Imaging (ERI) method within the realm of structural assessment, deviating from its conventional use in geology. The study presents an innovative inversion model that incorporates the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm, representing a notable leap in seamlessly integrating ERI into structural analysis. Rigorous validation of the inversion methodology is conducted through extensive benchmarking against simulated reference data, focusing on 1D and 2D resistivity distributions within timber specimens. By utilizing known resistivity fields, the paper quantitatively validates the accuracy of reconstructed models obtained through numerical simulations. Notably, both longitudinal and transverse surveys exhibit exceptional outcomes, showcasing a high correlation with the actual resistivity profiles, achieved within a concise 10-13 iterations. This meticulous validation process conclusively underscores the effectiveness and precision of the proposed inversion approach. Beyond its scientific contribution, this research expands the conventional boundaries of ERI application and establishes it as an invaluable tool for structural monitoring.

Delineation of the proper locations for wastewater disposal in arid regions using TEM and ERT techniques: A case study at Rubiki industrial zone, Badr City, Egypt

Proper wastewater disposal is crucial for the sustainable development of rapidly growing megacities worldwide. The emergence of waterlogging near evaporation ponds (EVP) and in desert areas surrounding these cities poses a significant environmental threat. This study employs an integrated approach, combining transient electromagnetic (TEM) and 2D-electrical resistivity tomography (2D-ERT) methods with remote sensing techniques, to understand wastewater flow patterns around EVPs and identify suitable disposal sites. The research focuses on a complex subsurface structure in the Cairo-Suez district, characterized by extensive surface waterlogging. Initial monitoring relies on satellite imagery and land use-land cover maps. TEM provides an overview of subsurface layer distribution, while 2D-ERT offers detailed insights into near-surface flow paths. To address the limitations of geoelectrical methods in locating conductive layers, advanced inversion techniques (AIS) are applied. The findings reveal a four-layer subsurface composition, with waterlogging primarily attributed to the argillaceous limestone layer interbedded with shale. This layer is shallower in the eastern and northwest areas, correlating with higher instances of waterlogging. Moving northward, the argillaceous limestone layer deepens, and the upper clastic layer thickens, resulting in reduced waterlogging. The study underscores the influence of subsurface structure on near-surface layer distribution. Based on these findings, optimal wastewater disposal sites are recommended, with a focus on the northern region where the argillaceous limestone layer is deeper and the upper clastic layer is thicker. To mitigate waterlogging, the installation of disposal wells is highly advised, leveraging the insights derived from this research. This study offers a versatile and reproducible approach suitable for both pre-project planning and post-project phases in desert regions.

Estimation of Geotechnical Parameters for Coal Exploration from Quasi-3D Electrical Resistivity Measurements

Geotechnical parameters are crucial for mine planning and operation at different stages of development. However, estimating these parameters requires a large number of boreholes and subsequent detailed analysis of the samples, making it a cumbersome exercise. Moreover, even after conducting these studies, it is not possible to cover the entire operational area. To address this issue, this study presents an indirect method of estimating geotechnical parameters through mathematical relations using resistivity data. The present study incorporated 2D and 3D subsurface imaging techniques for exploring coal reserves and analyzing geotechnical parameters that define subsurface soil properties. Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) was utilized for data acquisition, employing a Dipole–dipole array with a multielectrode ABEM Terrameter LS instrument. Six parallel profiles were conducted, each 400 m in length, with an inter-electrode spacing of 10 m and a spacing of 50 m between profiles. These profiles were combined into a 3D dataset referred to as quasi-3D ERT. The inversion process for both 2D and 3D data was performed using the Res2dinv and Res3dinv programs, respectively. This study overcame the challenges of 2D resistivity sections by evaluating horizontal depth slices in the x-z plane from layers 1 to 10, reaching a depth of 81.2 m. The geotechnical parameters, including cohesion, friction angle, moisture content, and plastic index, were derived from the resistivity data. The ERT method proved to be cost-effective and efficient in determining soil properties over a large area compared with traditional laboratory analysis of borehole samples. Additionally, the variation of geotechnical parameters with resistivity values exhibited unique characteristics. The results from both the 2D and quasi-3D ERT were well correlated with the borehole data. Such studies are valuable for resource exploration and mine planning purposes.

Near surface assessment of New capital city using geophysical techniques

ABSTRACT The Egyptian government announced the creation of a brand new capital city to address Cairo’s rapid population expansion and improve the quality of life for citizens, which is thought to have a strong demand for housing. In this study, we focused on the application of geophysical techniques, specifically Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Very Low Frequency Electromagnetic Method (VLF-EM), to investigate the shallow subsurface in the New Capital city in Egypt. The study area is located in the eastern part of Cairo and is characterised by Oligocene and Miocene rocks. The ERT profiles reveal four geoelectrical layers based on resistivity values, with the first layer (Resistivity >300 Ω.m) interpreted as sand and conglomerate on the surface or basalt below. The second layer (100–300 Ω.m) is identified as sandstone, while the third layer (15–100 Ω.m) is interpreted as humid sandstone. The fourth layer (1–15 Ω.m) is characterised as shale. The abrupt changes in resistivity values horizontally indicate the probability of subsurface structures, including faults. The VLF-EM method is used to identify faults and cracks in the earth’s crust. The results provide information on the size, shape, and depth of both shallow and deep subterranean conductors. Anomalies of high conductivity suggest fault or fracture zones influencing underlying strata.

Detection of subsurface cavities in the structurally bounded Labe prefecture area, Republic of Guinea using two-dimensional electrical resistivity tomography (ERT)

ABSTRACT This study is conducted within the Gambia River Basin Development Organization Energy Project (OMVG) framework. The construction of a high voltage interconnection network fed by a hydropower station to supply electricity to OMVG Member States was done on stable ground. During the installation pits for the pylons in Labé Prefecture, Republic of Guinea, cavities were discovered in the geological formations during the initial planned route. Structurally, the study area is bounded by two major faults to the east and west of northeast direction. The geomorphology is made up of a central plateau, intermountain depressions, piedmont plains, talwegs, and glacis. Geological investigations were obtained by a geophysical Two-dimensional Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) method. The results show that the synthetic lithological profile from top to base was sandy-clayey soil, hard cuirass, and a layer of gravel followed by a mottled zone comprising an indurated part and an imbibed part just before the source rock. The cavities were observed probably because of the dissolution of certain minerals constituting the weathering crust due to the infiltration, underground waters, and the seasonal variation in the level of the surface watercourses. Geophysical results showed a very good agreement with the visual observations.

Electrical Resistivity Tomography Investigation of Permafrost Conditions in a Thermokarst Site in Fairbanks, Alaska

&lt;abstract&gt; &lt;p&gt;The degradation of permafrost poses severe environmental threats to communities in cold regions. As near-surface permafrost warms, extensive topographic variability is prevalent in the Arctic and Sub-Arctic communities. Geologic hazards such as thermokarst are formed due to varying rates of permafrost degradation, resulting in ground subsidence. This gradual subsidence or abrupt collapse of the earth causes a danger to existing infrastructure and the economic activities of communities in cold regions. Understanding the causes of thermokarst development and its dynamics requires imaging its underground morpho-structures and characterizing the surface and subsurface controls. In this study, we conducted a two-dimensional (2D) electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) survey to characterize the permafrost conditions in a thermokarst prone site located in Fairbanks, Alaska. To increase the reliability in the interpretability of the ERT data, borehole data and the depth-of-investigation (DOI) methods were applied. By using the 2D and three-dimensional (3D) ERT methods, we gained valuable information on the spatial variability of transient processes, such as the movement of freezing and thawing fronts. Resistivity imaging across the site exhibited distinct variations in permafrost conditions, with both low and high resistive anomalies observed along the transects. These anomalies, representing taliks and ice wedges, were characterized by resistivity values ranging from 50 Ωm and above 700 Ωm, respectively. The results from this study showed the effectiveness of ERT to characterize permafrost conditions and thermokarst subsurface morpho-structures. The insights gained from this research contribute to a better understanding of the causes and dynamics of thermokarst, which can be instrumental for engineers in developing feasible remedial measures.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;/abstract&gt;