Methods » Direct current (DC) resistivity

DC resistivity measures the electrical potential associated with electrical current flow generated by a direct current applied to the ground. It is used to discriminate between different lithologies and pore fluids.

• INDUCED POLARISATION (IP)

  Measurement of transient (short term) variations in potential as the current is initially applied or removed from the ground. It is used to locate concentrations of clay and other electrically conducting materials.

• SELF POTENTIAL (SP)

  Measurement of naturally occurring electrical potentials commonly associated with the weathering of (sulphide) ore bodies and certain ground water flows. It is the most common electrical method used.

• RESISTIVITY PROFILING

  It uses fixed array type - Wenner, Schlumberger or commonly pole-pole to determine lateral changes in resistivity due to changes in geologic structure.

• RESISTIVITY SOUNDINGS

  It is used to determine vertical changes in resistivity due to geologic structure assuming horizontal layering.