Fracture zones detection for groundwater exploration integrating Resistivity Profiling and Very Low Frequency electromagnetic methods (Errachidia basin, Morocco)

Abstract

Resistivity Profiling and Very Low Frequency (VLF) electromagnetic methods were introduced to study fracture zones detection in Zaouia Jdida locality, within the Errachidia basin. The Horizontal Profiling was conducted in Wenner-α array, with AB = 300m and profile lines oriented NW–SE and NE–SW. The resistivity measurements were taken using MAE advanced geophysics instruments. The VLF profiles were implanted with the length reaches 1000 m and profile lines oriented in NE–SW direction. The VLF measurements were collected using T-VLF iris instrument and the data filtering was done using KHFFILT software. Two filters, Karous-Hjelt and Fraser, were applied to the real component of the secondary electromagnetic field. The qualitative interpretation of resistivity results, showed the presence of subsurface targets; fracture zones were detected at 70m, 240m and 450m positions along the profile P1, at 180m, 340m and 450m positions from the profile P2. The semi-quantitative interpretation of VLF results revealed the presence of two principal fracture zones at L3 and L5 locations, oriented NW–SE, at a depth range of 30 m to 60 m. The VLF anomaly observed at L3 location is confirmed by the resistivity measurements from the profile P1 (at 70m station). The identified fractures represent the potential zones for groundwater supply and then will have an implication on storage and movement of groundwater in the prospect area.

Keywords

• errachidia basin, fracture zone, resistivity, very low frequency, data filtering, groundwater exploration