Rapid Acquisition of Audio Frequency Magnetotellurics

Abstract

We illustrate that rapid acquisition of audio magnetotellurics (RAMT) is an alternative methodology to construct the impedance tensor. A solenoid is used as the magnetic sensor and a capacitively coupled, long wire antenna (LWA) as the electrical sensor. Recent improvements in data quality, automated processing flows and apparent resistivity to depth transforms resulted in a cost effective and practical alternative for quickly acquiring audio magnetotelluric 1D soundings. Case studies for groundwater, engineering and mining illustrate how the method may be useful for decision making, and hopefully enable more widespread adoption of low cost resistivity measurements.