Groundwater Mapping
Understanding groundwater mapping
Groundwater mapping is the process of using geophysical methods to locate and study underground water systems. This includes identifying:
- Aquifers: Subsurface layers that store and transmit water.
- Water-bearing formations: Rock or soil layers that hold groundwater.
- Flow pathways: Routes that groundwater takes below the surface.
This process involves:
- Measuring variations in ground properties like resistivity, which change with water presence and saturation.
- Using advanced tools like tTEM to create high-resolution subsurface maps, enabling the identification of potential groundwater aquifers.
With tools like tTEM, groundwater mapping and MAR projects become more efficient and effective, ensuring sustainable water management.
Geophysics in groundwater maping
Discover how geophysical methods improve efficiency in groundwater mapping
TEMcompany's role in groundwater maping
See how our instruments enhance precision and efficiency in exploring raw material deposits
Shallow Groundwater Exploration
tTEM is designed to detect shallow groundwater and aquifers, identifying water-saturated zones and distinguishing them from dry areas.
Non-Invasive & Fast
Unlike drilling, tTEM is non-invasive and covers large areas quickly, making it a cost-effective and efficient tool for initial groundwater mapping.
High Resolution Mapping
It creates detailed maps of groundwater features like fractures, porous zones, and aquifers, essential for exploration and management.
Adaptive to various Terrain
tTEM can be used across many terrains, from flat land to rugged areas, with minimal environmental impact.
Principle of Operation
sTEM uses time-domain electromagnetic (TEM) signals, sending out a current pulse and measuring how long it takes for the signal to return after interacting with subsurface materials. The resistivity varies based on water content—water-rich zones have lower resistivity, helping identify aquifers and water-bearing fractures.
Deep Penetration
sTEM provides deep subsurface penetration, ideal for investigating groundwater systems or aquifers located hundreds of meters below the surface.
Realtime Data Collection
Data is processed in real time, mapping the resistivity profile of the subsurface and identifying groundwater boundaries, flow characteristics, and water quality. This is useful for assessing resources, planning well installation, or detecting saltwater intrusion.
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Case Study - Searching for groundwater in Western Tanzania
Well siting in Tanzania
The HydroGeophysics Group, at Aarhus University carried out well siting campaign western Tanzania, where a two day tTEM survey in the village Makere ended up with recommendation of two sites well locations. The first target was a location with a potential for a thick unconfined aquifer to be present, while the second target was a confined aquifer system at greater depth, present in boreholes from nearby villages. The tTEM survey confirmed the extension of the system.
Insight from research papers
Innovative Research in Applied Geophysics
FROM GROUNDWATER TO PERMAFROST: INNOVATIVE INSIGHTS
Explore Applications
Managed Aquifer Recharge
Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) is a way of replenishing underground water supplies by intentionally storing water in aquifers. This is done by directing surface water, stormwater, or treated wastewater into the ground.
Fractured Hard Rock
Fractured hard rock refers to rock types like granite or basalt that have cracked or broken due to natural processes such as tectonic movements, weathering, or even drilling.
Saltwater Intrusion
Saltwater intrusion happens when seawater enters freshwater aquifers or coastal groundwater systems. This is caused by over-extraction of groundwater, rising sea levels, and natural changes.
Weathered Bedrock
Weathered bedrock is the layer of rock beneath the soil that has undergone various weathering processes, including chemical, physical, and biological breakdown.
Permafrost Mapping
Permafrost is ground that remains frozen for at least two consecutive years, consisting of soil, rock, and organic material bound by ice. Found in polar and high-altitude regions.
