Engineering Geophysics
Our geoelectrical investigations provide high-resolution subsurface models and support well-founded decisions in engineering geology, ground stability assessment, and construction material evaluation.
We conduct surveys also in steep terrain and on exposed rock slopes under demanding topographic conditions.
Applications
Quick Clay
Geoelectrical methods are a well-established and effective tool for the investigation of sedimentary environments and the identification of potential quick clay occurrences.
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Geoelectrical profiles provide high-resolution images of the electrical properties of sediments, allowing a differentiated characterization of layers that may contain quick clay.
Quick clay deposits are typically associated with elevated pore water content and specific electrochemical properties, which can be clearly distinguished in resistivity models from surrounding sediments and mechanically stable ground.
Rock Slope Stability
The assessment of rock slope stability requires a clear understanding of the internal structure of the rock mass, its degree of weathering, and the presence of water along fractures and discontinuities.
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Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) enables high-resolution imaging of spatial variations in electrical resistivity within the rock mass and its internal structure.
The resulting resistivity models allow conclusions to be drawn regarding zones of mechanical loosening, depths of weathering, and water-bearing discontinuities within the slope structure. On this basis, mechanically weakened rock areas and potentially unstable structures can be spatially delineated and evaluated with respect to possible rockfall and rock slope failure processes.
The investigation of slope sediments and potential landslide processes requires a differentiated understanding of internal layering, subsurface moisture conditions, and the topography of the underlying bedrock. Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) enables the imaging of conductive zones associated with increased water saturation, clay-rich weak layers, the morphology of the bedrock surface, and the boundary between unconsolidated sediments and bedrock.
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Because electrical resistivity is sensitive to moisture content, porosity, and lithological contrasts, potential slip surfaces and structural discontinuities within slope sediments can be identified and spatially constrained. The resulting subsurface models provide a reliable basis for assessing slope instability and for planning further geotechnical investigations.
Slope Sediments and Landslide
Construction Materials
Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) provides robust subsurface imaging for the investigation of construction materials in both unconsolidated sediments and solid quarry rock. The method supports resource delineation, thickness estimation, and geological modelling in early-stage site evaluation and operational planning.
Unconsolidated Construction Materials
Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) is a reliable method for the investigation of near-surface unconsolidated construction materials such as gravel, sand, and coarse glacial or fluvial deposits. The method supports both early-stage resource assessment and detailed site characterization by providing high-resolution subsurface resistivity models.
Contrasts in electrical resistivity reflect variations in sediment composition, grain size distribution, and groundwater conditions. Resistive coarse-grained materials can be clearly distinguished from more conductive, fine-grained or water-saturated sediments, allowing a differentiated interpretation of depositional architecture and material quality.
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Because resistivity is sensitive to porosity, saturation, and textural properties, the thickness and lateral extent of aggregate bodies can be modelled in a robust and reproducible manner. The transition to underlying bedrock is typically well constrained, enabling reliable estimation of overburden thickness.
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When integrated with geological mapping and borehole information, ERT results provide a solid basis for resource estimation, drill targeting, and extraction planning in sand and gravel operations.
Quarry Rock
Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) is equally effective in the investigation of hard rock resources in active or planned quarry sites.
In fractured or weathered bedrock, resistivity imaging enables the differentiation between intact rock mass, weathered zones, fault structures, and overburden cover. Variations in resistivity can reflect changes in rock quality, degree of fracturing, and moisture content.
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ERT supports the delineation of the bedrock surface, identification of structural discontinuities, and mapping of transition zones between competent quarry rock and altered or low-strength material.
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When integrated with geological mapping and borehole data, resistivity models contribute to robust resource modelling, extraction planning, and slope design.
Measurement and Modelling
Our geoelectrical survey systems can be configured with up to 112 electrodes. Typical electrode spacings between 0.5 m and 10 m allow investigations at varying resolutions and depths of up to approximately 250 m.
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The resulting 2D and 3D resistivity models provide detailed images of the subsurface electrical resistivity distribution. They allow for the clear delineation of sediment bodies and the identification of potential weakness zones in both sediments and bedrock.
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These results form a comprehensive and reliable basis for subsurface characterization. They enable the quantitative assessment of potential mineral resources and can be efficiently validated through targeted physical and geotechnical investigations, forming a solid foundation for informed decision-making.
Experience and Expertise
With more than 20 years of experience in geoelectrical investigations, our team has developed in-depth expertise in the interpretation of subsurface conditions in both sedimentary environments and bedrock settings, including the assessment of rock mass characteristics.
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Our interpretations are grounded in sedimentological and geological concepts that have been successfully applied and continuously refined in a wide range of geological settings in Canada and Alaska.