A study on the application of ATEM in hydrogeological investigation

• Published in: Applied geophysics Vol. 20; no. 4; pp. 411 - 421
• Main Authors: Yang, Miao-xin, Xiong, Sheng-qing, Liang, Sheng-jun, Tan, Han-dong
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Berlin/Heidelberg Springer Berlin Heidelberg 01.12.2023; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: Aquifers; Distribution; Earth and Environmental Science; Earth Sciences; Exploration; Geological data; Geological surveys; Geology; Geophysical data; Geophysical exploration; Geophysics; Geophysics/Geodesy; Geotechnical Engineering & Applied Earth Sciences; Human impact; Hydrogeology; Logging; Quaternary; Surveys; CDI; aquifer distribution; ATEM; quaternary formation thickness
• ISSN: 1672-7975; 1993-0658
• DOI: 10.1007/s11770-019-0832-8

Airborne time-domain electromagnetic (ATEM) which is suitable for large-scale exploration in complex terrain areas is a high-efficiency, flexible geophysical investigation technique widely applied in various fields of work with broad application prospects. It is difficult to carry out ground geophysical exploration because of the great human disturbance in the study area. By applying ATEM in the air, together with ground geophysical investigation efforts, we were able to greatly improve the hydrogeological research degree of the area and provide useful geophysical data for the fundamental geological research there. The observation system used in our study was an AeroTEM-IV system. The survey data were converted into conductivity depth information, which was used together with existing geological data to examine the electrical structure of the area. By the hydrogeological logging interpretation result, we validated the reliability of the AEM data; comprehensive interpretation was also conducted using airborne magnetic (AM) data to improve the accuracy of the interpretation result. After converting the data across the area, we yielded a three-dimensional data body representing the electrical distribution in the area, with which we inferred the Quaternary formation thickness and aquifer distribution there. Our research and interpretation results confirm that ATEM can be used as a useful means for hydrogeological survey and fundamental geological investigation. It is an effective supplement to ground geophysical exploration.