Resistivity, induced polarization, and self-potential methods in geothermal exploration

Technical Report · Fri Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1982

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/6990045· OSTI ID:6990045

Ward, S H; Sill, W R

An overview of the literature is presented. This is followed by a statement of some elementary electromagnetic theory necessary to establish the MKS system of units and the fundamental physics governing electrical methods of exploration. Next there is presented a reasonably detailed discussion of the electrical properties of earth materials including normal mode of conduction, surface conduction, electrode polarization, membrane polarization, semiconduction, melt conduction, real and complex resistivity, and the origin of self-potentials in geothermal systems. To illustrate how electrical methods are used within the framework of integrated geological, geochemical, and geophysical exploration, the case history of the Monroe-Red Hill hot springs system is presented.

• Research Organization: Utah Univ., Salt Lake City (USA)
• DOE Contract Number: AC07-79ID12079
• OSTI ID: 6990045
• Report Number(s): DOE/ID/12079-90; ESL-108; ON: DE84012191
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
150301* -- Geothermal Exploration & Exploration Technology-- Geophysical Techniques & Surveys
ELECTRIC CONDUCTIVITY
ELECTRIC LOGGING
ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES
ELECTRICAL SURVEYS
EXPLORATION
GEOPHYSICAL SURVEYS
GEOTHERMAL EXPLORATION
GEOTHERMAL SYSTEMS
Geothermal Legacy
INDUCED POLARIZATION LOGGING
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
RESISTIVITY SURVEYS
SELF-POTENTIAL SURVEYS
SURVEYS
WELL LOGGING