Short guide for electromagnetic

conductivity survey
Address of the manufacturer:

GF Instruments, s.r.o.
Jecna 29a
62100 Brno

tel: +420 541 634 285

fax: +420 549 522 915
e-mail: info@gfinstruments.cz
 Short guide for electromagnetic conductivity
mapping

Chapter 1
General features, depth range and resolution
The most important advantage of electromagnetic conductivity
meters is fast mapping of apparent conductivity and inphase with
possibility of EM inversion (sections and slices) if several layers
are measured together.
While talking about true conductivity meters it is necessary to
take care especially of their three crucial properties:
- short&long term stability of readings (negligible
temperature drift, no need of frequent recalibration)
- correct absolute calibration of apparent conductivity
- defined depth range.
The stability of reading is determined by design quality of
electronic and mechanic parts of device. The correct calibration
depends on the quality (homogeneity, volume) and proper
conductivity levels of calibrating standards. The depth range is
determined by the distance of magnetic dipoles (distance between
coil centers of transmitter and receiver).

Keeping the above mentioned instrument features we can obtain

quick and useful results that match very well with DC resistivity
methods (maps, slices and sections from 2D and 3D imaging).
The other advantage of EM method could be easy measurement
on dry or frozen ground as the method is contact less.
On the pictures below normalized sensitivity function for all CMD
instruments is shown. (The depth means depth under the probe.)
For instance CMD 4 in high depth range is the most sensitive for
object 1.3 m under the probe. Effective depth (where 75% of
cumulative sensitivity is reached) is 6 m.

Sensitivity functions for high and low depth range

There are two ways how to provide requested measuring depth
range – to have proper probe with certain dipole distance
(distances) or to change the orientation of dipoles (from vertical to
horizontal direction). The first one is more correct and convenient
especially if EM inversion is calculated from multilayered
measurement. The second one (leading approximately to half
depth range) is auxiliary but useful for fast judgment of structure
when only one single depth probe is available.

Resolution and depth range are closely depending. Increasing

depth range decreases resolution and vice versa. Resolution can be
significantly improved by EM inversion which generally improves
depth and size imaging of objects in slices and sections as well.

Inphase quantity
The second parameter which is measured simultaneously with
apparent conductivity is inphase. It is defined as relative quantity
in ppt (part per thousand) of primary magnetic field and is closely
related to magnetic susceptibility of measured material. The
inphase can especially serve for indication of artificial metal
objects like cables, pipes, reinforced concrete, tanks etc. Thus the
inphase map can help to distinguish artificial structures from
natural geology seen in apparent conductivity map.
EM inversion
EM inversion serves for data processing at multilayered
measurement. Although the EM inversion never gives so detailed
and accurate results as DC resistivity processing its useful
contribution is obvious for many cases of investigation. Together
with apparent conductivity and resistivity maps from individual
depths EM inversion brings quick and complex view on the
studied structure.

There are two typical ways of EM inversion – with sudden or

fluent change of conductivity/resistivity in calculated inverse
model. The up-to-date choice of commercially available EM
inversion software for shallow depth range conductivity meters is
really not wide.
For CMD data processing there are three ways of inversion:
- by CMD-Explorer system (for 2 layered model – structure
with sudden conductivity/resistivity change)
1D inversion is made either directly in field during
measurement (control unit shows upper layer conductivity,
bottom layer conductivity and depth of their border) or as
post processing by CMD PC software with output of
section for Surfer.
- by IX1D from Interpex (for structures with sudden
conductivity change)
1D inversion in conductivity section can be processed
either automatically or manually (with starting model and
individual spot processing).
- by Res2Dinv and Res3Dinv from Geotomo (for structures
with fluent resistivity change)
 2D and 3D inversion with output of resistivity sections and
slices uses transformed EM data exported from CMD PC
software.

For effective possibility of EM inversion a measurement with

CMD-Explorer or CMD-Mini Explorer is recommended.

The choice of the data processing method is crucial point of good

geophysical interpretation. There is no major general purpose
processing method for EM data. For proper decision we
recommend to take in consideration your preliminary idea of
investigated structure and the goal of survey with the respect to
your familiarity with interpretation software.
For basic tasks primary apparent conductivity/resistivity maps are
quite sufficient. For advanced user there is a number of ways of
data processing (including EM inversion) shown in Chapter 2.
 Multidepth measurement - wish and reality
regarding use of different frequencies
It would be really great to obtain correct conductivity maps from
many different depths using broad band antennas with stable
transmitter to receiver distance and various frequencies of EM
field. Unfortunately, physics does not support such a possibility:
For correct conductivity measurement we have to remain at low
induction numbers, frequency range is low and the effective depth
range is determined by dipole center distance mostly.

Thus we will find two basic cases of multifrequency measurement

with constant dipole center distance:
- The frequency is changing from hundreds of Hz to
100 kHz approximately (low induction numbers). We will
find the depth range determined mostly by the distance of
magnetic dipoles. Influence of broadband antennas
decreases sensitivity and stability of measuring system.
- The frequency change is bigger (e.g. to 1 MHz). The
measuring device is crossing the transient zone of
induction numbers with ambiguous response and depth
range influenced by conductivity and by frequency at the
same time. Measured results cannot be correctly calibrated
in conductivity/resistivity units and effectively used for
comparison with other measuring methods and for EM
inversion.

Following pictures from the same testing area illustrate how the
resistivity map changes when we change the frequency only and
when we change the dipole distance. The accompanying DC
resistivity section shows detailed structure on the same place.
 Apparent resistivity maps
measured with various frequencies
and 2 m dipole distance

All maps show approximately the same results without obvious

relation to the real depth structure.

49.2414

49.2416

49.2418 140
135
49.2420 130
125
16.5984 16.5980 16.5976 16.5972
120
49.2414 115
110
49.2416
105
100
49.2418
95
90
49.2420
85
16.5982 16.5978 16.5974 16.5970 80
75
49.2414
70
49.2416 65
60
49.2418 55
50
49.2420 45
40
16.5984 16.5980 16.5976 16.5972 35
49.2414 30
25
49.2416 20
[Ohm.m.]
49.2418

49.2420

16.5982 16.5978 16.5974 16.5970

 Apparent resistivity maps
measured with CMD-1, CMD-2 and CMD-4 probes
The map from CMD-1 shows generally higher resistivity being
influenced mostly by upper resistive layer (see DC section). The
maps from CMD-2 and CMD-4 show proportionally lower
resistivities due to the more and more significant contribution
of the clayey layer at approx. 5 m depth.

49.2414

49.2416
95

49.2418
90
85
49.2420 80
75
16.5984 16.5982 16.598 16.5978 16.5976 16.5974 16.5972 16.5970
70
49.2414

65
49.2416 60
55
49.2418
50
45
49.2420
40
16.5984 16.5982 16.598 16.5978 16.5976 16.5974 16.5972 16.5970 35
49.2414 30
25
49.2416
20
15
49.2418
[Ohm.m.]

49.2420

16.5984 16.5982 16.598 16.5978 16.5976 16.5974 16.5972 16.5970

 Reference section measured by DC method with ARES system

The section shows structure with bottom clayey layer (conductive) covered with quaternary
sediments (sand and gravel). The upper resistive layer is regularly pinching from position 0
to approximately position 60.

Iteration 3 RMS error=4.2 %

0 20 40 60 80 100 [m]
0

-5

-10

Depth (m)
-15

-20
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Inverse Model Resistivity Section Unit electrode spacing 2.00 m

10 13 16 20 24 31 38 48 60 75 93 116 146 182 227 284

Resistivity in ohm.m
Choice of the probe
Seven standard probes are offered covering all typical tasks of
shallow EM survey:

CMD-Explorer with simultaneous 6.7 m, 4.2 m, 2.2 m full depth

ranges is designed for investigation of layered structures in the
frame of geological, geotechnical, prospecting and other tasks.
Rich current graphical output (with in-situ inversion) and support
of consequent data processing (mapping, sections and inversion)
make Explorer ideal for fast and complex EM survey.

CMD-Mini Explorer with simultaneous 0.5 m, 1.0 m, 1.8 m full

depth ranges is designed for investigation of very shallow layered
structures in the frame of agriculture, forestry, archaeology, road
inspection and other tasks. Rich current graphical output (with in-
situ inversion) and support of consequent data processing
(mapping, sections and inversion) make Mini Explorer ideal for
fast and complex EM survey.

CMD-4 with 6 m full depth range and typical use in geological

and environmental survey can be used for many connected tasks
like mapping of raw material deposits, watered zones, localization
of waste dumps, buried tanks and other hidden objects.

CMD-4/6 with 6/9 m full depth range allow measuring with the
same or extended depth range like CMD-4 in the frame of similar
applications.

CMD-2 with 3 m full depth range and typical use in engineering

survey can serve for cable and pipe localization as well as for
general assessment of construction site (e.g. detailed investigation
of basement positions – clayey, sandy, rocky parts).

CMD-1 with 1.5 m full depth range is typically used in

archaeology and agriculture.
This probe carried mostly near the ground surface allows detailed
distinguishing of buried objects (vertically orientated zones, e.g.
basement of walls, rock outcrops) and conductivity assessment of
upper thin layers.

CMD Tiny with 0.7 m full depth range allows the highest
resolution of shallow situated objects in the frame of monitoring
of artificial structures (roads, buildings, historical sites) as well as
soil quality evaluation in agriculture and forestry.
Chapter 2
Examples of multidepth investigation
This chapter shows typical examples from measurement with
CMD-Explorer and CMD-MiniExplorer. CMD software for PC
provides data transformation and export for commonly spread
geophysical processing programs for imaging and inversion
(Surfer, IX1D, Res2Dinv and Res3Dinv).

Each following part bringing results from a chosen locality begins

with reference DC resistivity section measured with ARES
instrument that allows comparing accordance of individual ways
of imaging and inversion of EM measurement.
GF Testing Site

The structure is typical with pinching of sandy layer above clayey

background.

All available kinds of imaging and inversion are explained here

and shown consequently:
- Apparent Resistivity Maps show basic outputs from all
three depth graded EM systems of CMD-Explorer.
- Resistivity Slices from EM Inversion by CMD-Explorer
show depth graded resistivity maps based on 1D inversion
of measured data.
- 2D EM Inversion by CMD-Explorer shows measured
apparent resistivity section and inverse model resistivity
section based on 1D inversion.
- EM Inversion by IX1D shows conductivity section by
Interpex software.
- 2D Imaging and Inversion by Res2Dinv shows measured
apparent resistivity section and inverse model resistivity
section by Geotomo software.
- 3D Imaging and Inversion by Res3Dinv shows depth
graded resistivity slices and resistivity sections
along/across measured lines (YZ/XY directions) by
Geotomo software.
 GF Testing Site
Reference Resistivity Section

Measured with ARES using Schlumberger array

2D imaging and inversion by Res2Dinv

Ps.Z 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 m.
0
-2
-4
-6
Measured Apparent Resistivity Pseudosection

Iteration 3 RMS error = 1.75 %

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 m.
0
-2
-4

Depth (m)
-6
Inverse Model Resistivity Section Unit electrode spacing 2 m

15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45 48 51 54 57 60
Resistivity in ohm.m
 GF Testing Site
Apparent Resistivity Maps

Measured with CMD-Explorer

Imaging by Surfer

Exp-1 Exp-2 Exp-3

78 78 78

60 60 60

40 40 40

20 20 20

0 0 0
0 5 10 15 20 [m] 0 5 10 15 20 [m] 0 5 10 15 20 [m]
Effective depth Effective depth Effective depth
range 2.2 m range 4.2 m range 6.7 m

18 22 26 30 34 38 42 46 50
[Ohm.m.]
 GF Testing Site
Resistivity Slices from EM Inversion by CMD - Explorer
Measured with CMD-Explorer
Imaging by Surfer
Layer 1 Layer 2 Layer 3 Layer 4 Layer 5 Layer 6
Depth: 0-1 m Depth: 1-2 m Depth: 2-3 m Depth: 3-4 m Depth: 4-5 m Depth: 5-6 m
Y Y Y Y Y Y
78 78 78 78 78 78

60 60 60 60 60 60

40 40 40 40 40 40

20 20 20 20 20 20

X X X X X X
0 0 0 0 0 0
0 10 20 0 10 20 0 10 20 0 10 20 0 10 20 0 10 20 [m]

12 17 22 27 32 37 42 47 52 57 62 67 72
Resistivity in Ohm.m.
 GF Testing Site
2D EM Inversion by CMD-Explorer

Resistivity section measured with CMD-Explorer

Imaging by Surfer

Measured Apparent Resistivity Pseudosection

0

-4

-8
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70

20 24 28 32 36 40 44 48 52 56 60 64
Apparent Resistivity in Ohm.m.
Inverse Model Resistivity Section
0

-4

Depth (m)
-8
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70

15 25 35 45 55 65 75 85 95 105 115 125 135 145 155

Resistivity in Ohm.m.
 GF Testing Site
EM Inversion by IX1D

Conductivity section measured with CMD-Explorer

 GF Testing Site
2D Imaging and Inversion by Res2Dinv

Resistivity section measured with CMD-Explorer

Ps.Z 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70

-1

-3

-5
Measured Apparent Resistivity Pseudosection

Iteration 3 RMS error = 1.46 %

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
-1
-3

Depth (m)
-5
Inverse Model Resistivity Section

15 17 19 21 23 25 27 29 31 33 35 37 39 41 43 45
Resistivity in ohm.m
 GF Testing Site
3D Imaging and Inversion by Res3Dinv

Resistivity slices measured with CMD-Explorer

 GF Testing Site
3D Imaging and Inversion by Res3Dinv

Resistivity YZ sections measured with CMD-Explorer

 GF Testing Site
3D Imaging and Inversion by Res3Dinv

Resistivity XZ sections measured with CMD-Explorer

Pinching of Loess Layer

The structure is typical with pinching of loess layer above rocky

background.

Chosen kinds of imaging and inversion related to geological

structures are shown:
- Apparent Resistivity Maps
- Apparent Resistivity Section
- Conductivity Section from EM inversion by IX1D
- Resistivity Section from 2D inversion by Res2Dinv
 Pinching of Loess Layer
Reference Resistivity Section of Geological Structures

Measured with ARES using Schlumberger array

2D imaging and inversion by Res2Dinv

Ps.Z 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 m.

0
-4
-8
Measured Apparent Resistivity Pseudosection

Iteration 3 RMS error = 2.9 %

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 m.
0
-4

Depth (m)
-8
Inverse Model Resistivity Section Unit electrode spacing 2 m

25 33 44 58 76 101 134 177

Resistivity in ohm.m
 Pinching of Loess Layer
Apparent Resistivity Maps of Geological Structures

Measured with CMD-Explorer

Imaging by Surfer

Exp-1 Exp-2 Exp-3

80 80 80

60 60 60

40 40 40

20 20 20

0 0 0
0 5 10 m 0 5 10 m 0 5 10 m
Effective depth Effective depth Effective depth
range 2.2 m range 4.2 m range 6.7 m

30 50 70 90 110 130 150 170 190

[Ohm.m.]
 Pinching of Loess Layer
Apparent Resistivity Section of Geological Structures

Measured with CMD-Explorer

Imaging by Surfer

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
0

-4

Depth (m)
-8

30 50 70 90 110 130 150 170 190

Apparent Resistivity in ohm.m
 Pinching of Loess Layer
Conductivity Section of Geological Structures

Measured with CMD-Explorer

EM Inversion by IX1D
 Pinching of Loess Layer
Resistivity Section of Geological Structures

Measured with CMD-Explorer

2D Imaging and Inversion by Res2Dinv

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
0
-2
-4

Depth (m)
-6

25 33 44 58 76 101 134 177

Resistivity in ohm.m
Farming and Woodland Area

Measured area across agricultural land and wood allows studying

both geological background (CMD-Explorer) and detailed upper
very shallow soil structures (CMD-MiniExplorer).

Chosen useful kinds of imaging and inversion are shown.

Geological structures:
- Apparent Resistivity Maps (confirm well sharp slope of
contact with diabase background and sandy loam layer in
upper part)
- Resistivity Slices and YZ Sections from 3D Imaging and
Inversion by Res3Dinv

Shallow soil structures:

- Apparent Resistivity Maps (with top soil in upper part)
- Apparent Resistivity Section
- Conductivity Section from EM inversion by IX1D
- Resistivity Section with 2D imaging and inversion by
Res2Dinv
- Resistivity Slices from 3D inversion by Res3Dinv
 Farming and Woodland Area
Reference Resistivity Section of Geological Structures

Measured with ARES using Schlumberger array

2D imaging and inversion by Res2Dinv

Ps.Z 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 m.

0
-4
-8
Measured Apparent Resistivity Pseudosection

Iteration 3 RMS error = 2.3 %

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 m.
0
-4

Depth (m)
-8
Inverse Model Resistivity Section Unit electrode spacing 2 m

15 22 31 45 64 93 134 193
Resistivity in ohm.m
 Farming and Woodland Area
Apparent Resistivity Maps of Geological Structures

Measured with CMD-Explorer

Imaging by Surfer

Exp-1 Exp-2 Exp-3

110 110 110

100 100 100

80 80 80

60 60 60

40 40 40

20 20 20
0 5 10 m 0 5 10 m 0 5 10 m
Effective depth Effective depth Effective depth
range 2.2 m range 4.2 m range 6.7 m

20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200

[Ohm.m.]
 Farming and Woodland Area
Resistivity Slices of Geological Structures
Measured with CMD-Explorer
3D Imaging and Inversion by Res3Dinv

W W
W

S S
S

D D D

S S
S

L L L

D D

S
S
L
S
W
D
L L
 Farming and Woodland Area
Resistivity YZ Sections of Geological Structures

Measured with CMD-Explorer

3D Imaging and Inversion by Res3Dinv
 Farming and Woodland Area
Apparent Resistivity Maps of Shallow Soil Structures

Measured with CMD-Mini Explorer

Imaging by Surfer

Mini-1 Mini-2 Mini-3

110 110 110

100 100 100

90 90 90

80 80 80

70 70 70

60 60 60

50 50 50

40 40 40

30 30 30

20 20 20
0 5 10 [m] 0 5 10 [m] 0 5 10 [m]
Effective depth Effective depth Effective depth
range 0.5 m range 1.0 m range 1.8 m

20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180

[Ohm.m.]
 Farming and Woodland Area
Apparent Resistivity Section of Shallow Soil Structures

Measured with CMD-Mini Explorer

Imaging by Surfer

-0.5
-1.5
-2.5

Depth (m)
20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110

30 50 70 90 110 130 150 170 190 210

Apparent Resistivity in ohm.m
 Farming and Woodland Area
Conductivity Section of Shallow Soil Structures

Measured with CMD-Mini Explorer

EM Inversion by IX1D
 Farming and Woodland Area
Resistivity Section of Shallow Soil Structures

Measured with CMD-Mini Explorer

2D Imaging and Inversion by Res2Dinv

Ps.Z 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110

-0.5
-1.5
-2.5
Measured Apparent Resistivity Pseudosection

Iteration 3 RMS error = 4.7 %

20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110
-0.5
-1.5
-2.5

Depth (m)
Inverse Model Resistivity Section

30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Resistivity in ohm.m
 Farming and Woodland Area
Resistivity Slices of Shallow Soil Structures

Measured with CMD-Mini Explorer

3D Imaging and Inversion by Res3Dinv

W
F L

A A A

W W

A
L L
F
L
W
A A
Metal Pipeline Detection

Measurement was performed above metal pipeline. The goal of

the measurement was to determine position and depth of the pipe.

The most effective ways of imaging are shown:

- Inphase maps from all three EM systems of CMD-
MiniExplorer (with the biggest contrast at 1 m depth)
- Resistivity Section with 2D imaging and inversion by
Res2Dinv (confirms 1 m depth of the pipe)
 Metal Pipeline Detection
Contour Maps of Inphase
Measured with CMD-Mini Explorer
Imaging by Surfer
30 30 30

Mini-1 Mini-2 Mini-3

25 1.6 25 2.8 25
2.7 8
1.55 2.6 7.5
1.5 2.5
2.4 7
1.45 2.3 6.5
20 20 2.2 20
1.4 2.1 6
1.35 2 5.5
1.3 1.9 5
1.8
15 1.25 15 1.7 15 4.5
1.6
1.2 1.5 4
1.15 1.4 3.5
1.1 1.3 3
10 10 1.2 10
1.05 1.1 2.5
1 1 2
0.9
0.95 0.8 1.5
0.9 0.7 1
5 5 0.6 5
0.85 0.5 0.5
[ppt] [ppt] [ppt]
0 0 0
0 5 10 m 0 5 10 m 0 5 10 m
Effective depth Effective depth Effective depth
range 0.5 m range 1.0 m range 1.8 m
 Metal Pipeline Detection
Resistivity Section

Measured with CMD-Mini Explorer

2D Imaging and Inversion by Res2Dinv

Ps.Z 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 m.
-0.2
-0.6
-1
Measured Apparent Resistivity Pseudosection

Iteration 3 RMS error= 2.8 %

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 m.
-0.2
-0.6
-1

Depth (m)
Inverse Model Resistivity Section

6 10 14 18 22 26 30 34
Resistivity in ohm.m
Chapter 3
Examples of typical applications

Engineering survey, road and railway building

- judgment of bedrock
- detection of cellars, cables, pipes
- assessment of mechanical properties of rocks

Dams and dikes (flood protection)

- localization of watered zones and landslides
- mapping of impacts
- beaver holes detection

Water management
- water source survey and protection
- monitoring of waste water leakage

Geological mapping
- raw material prospecting
- geological survey
- cavities detection

Agriculture
- soil quality monitoring
- fertilizer and watering management

Archaeology
- detection of remains of walls, cellars, vaults
- detailed survey of historical sites (graves, settlements)
- localization of underground corridors

Environmental
- mapping of pollution plumes
- survey of illegal waste dumps
- monitoring of leakages from agricultural and industrial
plants
Military and police
- pioneer work
- UXO survey
- detection of graves and hidden objects

Comment:
Instruments CM-031, CM-032 and CM-138 are older versions of
up-to-date CMD-4, CMD-2 and CMD-1 probes.
 Engineering geology survey for road reconstruction
Limestone cliff decay in marginal part of Moravian karst was endangering the road built over river
sink and caves (falling blocks of walls and sediments were taken by sinking underground river).
The road reconstruction based on new bridge over destroyed part was considered.
The map shows places with solid limestone blocks, depresion filled with terra rosa and other instable
structures.
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-031.
B Risk zone Limestone crags E Geodeticaly fixed caves
Depression of the limestone bedrock filled D1 Deformation parallel with slopes
A D2
with loams and sandy loams Direction of limestones
D3
Course of surface and groundwater Deformation parallel with tectonics

B E
[m]
0
54
27
40
5

55 320

40
6
10 32
D3

D2

56 2
40
7
33
57 0
40
8
20 58 331
409

33
2
59
4 10

30
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200 [m]

120 160 200 240 280 320 360 400 440 480
Resistivity in ohm.m
Contour map map of apparent resistivity
 Mapping slope deformation
A road was fatally destroyed by active landslide as a consequence
of heavy rain. Detailed monitoring of the slope was performed before
road reconstruction to detect instable zones.
The position of extremely risky watered zone is seen on the picture.
Water accumulation below the road (damaged dewatering system) and
consequent permanently watered sediments activate continuous
landslide. The probable directions of outflow show the possibility of
activation of the mass of old landslides.
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-031.
Wet sediments - zone of saturation
Old dry landslide acumulation
Asphalt road
[m] 80
8 10 12
10

70
12 30
29
16

28
12

60 27
26
14
14

25
16

24
23
50
18

22
21
16 20
20 18 19
40 22 18
17
16
16
24

15
30 14
13
18 12
16 11
14 10
20
9
8
7
6
10 16
5
14 4
[Ohm.m.]
0
80 90 100 110 120 [m]
Contour map of apparent resistivity
 Monitoring of road body
This survey shows the possibility of fast monitoring of road body
quality accompanied with information about geological structure
of bedrock.
Two maps were obtained using probes with different depth ranges.
The first map (from CM-032) shows irregular structure of construction
materials - sand and gravel (high resistive) with different width and
thickness. The second map (CM-031) shows rather homogenous
clayey bedrock.

Clay loam Sand and gravel

[m] Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-032.

18

16

14

12

10
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 [m]

Resistivity in ohm.m

[m]
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-031.
18

16

14

12

10
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 [m]

Contour maps of apparent resistivity

 Mapping road stability

Continuing road destruction was studied using two measurements

with different depth ranges.
Obtained maps show that the clayey zone (as the main reason of
landslide) is situated rather in deeper part of road basement. Both
maps show increased moisture below the damaged place. Its measure
increases with the depth.

Area with increased moisture and

caverns filled with clayey mud

of the old landslide

head
re
Fo

Buttress wall Concrete balk Buttress wall

6 6
sť
vpu
ká

4 4
rs
Ho

2 2

0 0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 [m]
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-032.

Buttress wall Concrete balk Buttress wall

6 6

4 4

2 2

0 0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 [m]
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-031.

2 6 10 14 18 22 26 30 34 38
Resistivity in ohm.m
Contour maps of apparent resistivity
 Buried metal pipeline detection

The metal pipeline was detected at about 1 m depth. Its position

is indicated with very strong and narrow anomaly - increased
values of inphase.
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CMD 2.

P Underground metal pipeline

[m] [m]
50 50

45 45

40 40

35 35

30 30

25 25
P P
20 20

15 15

10 10

[mS/m] [ppt]
5 5

0 0
0 5 10 15 20 [m] 0 5 10 15 20 [m]

Contour map of Contour map of inphase

apparent conductivity
 Mapping underground objects
Area of former starch factory was investigated to determine positions of pipelines and other
buried objects before projecting of new commercial centre.
The map shows inhomogeneous structure of backfill in former potato yard (random direct
investigation discovered building waste material, concrete blocks and other waste material).
The position of basement of industrial track and two pipelines are visible as well.
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-032.

Buried basement of industrial track Metal conductor (pipeline)

[m]
50

40

30

20

10

0
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 [m]

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Resistivity in ohm.m.
Contour map of apparent resistivity
 Dike investigation
Searching for cavities in the fishpond dike. The fishpond dike was
partially destroyed during the flood. The survey was performed to
detect its weak places.
The low resistivity indicates larger destructed zones (voids) filled with
water and mud.
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-032.
Cave filled with water Cave repaired with concrete grouting

10 12 14 16 18 [m]
48 48
220
210
46 46 200
190
180
170
44 44
160
150
140
Fish pond

42 42 130
120
110
40 40 100
90
80
70
38 38
60
50
40
36 36 30
[Ohm.m]
10 12 14 16 18

Asphalt road

Contour map of apparent resistivity

 Determination of the penetration
of sodium sulphate from a mud pit
The mud pit is filled during the mining technology process wih the
solution containing sodium sulphate. The conductivity measurement
was done to monitor the tightness of the dam and the efficiency of
the dewatering ditches along the dam. One part of the long area
under the dam was chosen for the survey.
The measure of the contamination is obvious from the apparent
conductivity map. The measure of underground water pollution
with sodium sulphate decreases homogenously with the distance
from the dewatering ditch.
The inphase map copies the conductivity map on the great part
of the measured area showing that no burried metallic objects
are present. The bottom part of the inphase map is influenced by
the dewatering ditch and the concrete pavement reinforcement.
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-031.
Homogenous sand
[m] [m]
50 50
66 1320
62 1310
58 1300
40 40
54 1290
50 1280
46 1270
30 30 1260
42
1250
38
1240
34
20 20 1230
30 1220
26 1210
22 1200
10 18 10 1190
14 1180
10 1170
0 [ mS/m] 0 [Rel.unit]
0 10 20 [m] 0 10 20 [m]
Contour map of apparent conductivity Contour map of inphase
 Geological mapping
Geological mapping before construction of new highway crossing was performed. The recent
agriculture area (on former gravel deposit) was investigated before digging of the basement of
the road overpass.
The map shows precisely the position of exploited gravel deposit filled with inhomogeneous
rubbish. This area is typical with low resistivity (remains of organic mass).
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-031.
Gravel
500 520
0 540 560 Rubbish dump with organic material
580 600 620 640 660 680
20 700

40 1 80
1 50
100
90
60 80
70
60
80 50
45
40
100 35
30
25
20

N
Contour m
a p o f ap p 15
arent resi 10
stivity [Ohm.m.]
 Archaeology
Detailed mapping of foundations of abolished Sanctus Vitus chapel from 1263 had to verify roman
vault situated on the former cemetery.
Two maps from various depths allow distinguishing individual parts and shape of the chapel.
The CM-138 map shows rather detailed structure near surface while the position of the vault as well
as shape of basements and position of peripheral walls are seen in CM-031 map.
Presbiterium Metallic enclosure with metallic cross inside Old vault
, Main foundation lines , , Cross foundation lines , Indications of the peripheral walls
[m] -30 -20 -10 0 [m] -30 -20 -10 0

50 50
30 30 46 30 30 46
42 42
25 25 38 25 25 38
34 34
20 20 30 20 20 30
26 26
15 15 22 15 15 22
18 18
14 14
10 10 10 10
10 10
6 6
5 5 5 5
2 2
[Ohm.m.] [Ohm.m.]
0 0 0 0
-30 -20 -10 0 -30 -20 -10 0
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-031. Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-138.
Contour maps of apparent resistivity
 Archaeology
Identification of hidden parts of fortification was performed to complete formerly discovered walls
and underground objects of medieval castle.
The map with two high resistive stone objects corresponds with remains of a gate (or pillars). The
left part of the picture shows the area of outer court.
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-031.

Underground object
[m] [m]
50 50
400 1300
200
40 40 1280
100
90 1260
30 80 30 1240
70
60 1220
20 50 20 1200
40
1180
30
10 20 10 1160
10 1140
0
[Ohm.m.] [Rel.unit]
0 0
0 10 20 30 40 50 [m] 0 10 20 30 40 50 [m]
Contour map of apparent resistivity Contour map of inphase
 Environmental protection
The studied area was inside a uranium mining field. During the
mining process a technologic difficulty occured and the sulphuric
acid leaked out from a plastic pipe near to one of boreholes.
The determination of the pollution plume was needed to allow
sanation works in the area.
The direction and the measure of the propagation of the acid
flow are indicated with higher values of apparent conductivity.
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-031.

Sulphuric acid leakage

[m]
Contour map of apparent conductivity
50

28
40 27
26
25
24
23
30 22
21
20
19
18
20 17
16
15
14
13
10 12
11
[mS/m]

0
0 10 20 [m]
 Environmental protection

A complex monitoring in the frame of ground water protection in close

vicinity of a pig farm was done. The goal was to detect leakage from a
liquid manure tank.
The decreased resistivity indicates the zone with contamination. These
extremely low values of resistivity are typical for the high contamination
with organic substances.
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-031.
B Backfill - sand and gravel Zone of contamination with liquid manure
I Influence of reinforced concrete centring

[m]
Contour map of apparent resistivity

B
I
[m]

Liquid manure tank

[m]

Apparent resistivity in ohm.m

 Mapping of buried waste dump

Higher values of conductivity indicate the area formed with

homogenous clay sediments. High variability and low values of
conductivity are typical for the inhomogeneous landfill (without
organic material). The inphase map shows a lot of metallic objects
in landfill (increased inphase).
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CMD 4.
L Landfill Clay sediments

Contour map
of apparent conductivity Contour map of inphase
50 [m] 50

60 3
40 40
56
2
52
1
48
30 30 0
Asphalt road

44

40 -1

36 -2
20 32 20
-3
28
-4
24
-5
10 20 10
16 -6
[mS/m] [ppt]

0 0
0 5 10 15 [m] 0 5 10 15 [m]
 Detection of buried objects
Geophysical survey was performed to detect underground objects from World War II.
Several objects were identified. There are two concrete bunkers connected with trenches serving
for treatment of city inhabitants and workers from close factory. The central low resistive bended
zone shows former watershed filled with conductive sediments.
Measured with electromagnetic conductivity meter CM-031.
Blindage (concrete bunker) Shelter trench Centre line of low resistivity zone
[m]
100 200
190
180
170
80 160
150
140
130
120
60 110
100
90
80
40 70
60
50
40
30
20 20
10
0
[Ohm.m.]
0
20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 [m]
Contour map of apparent resistivity