MIRO proposes hard rock ERT project

Minerals Industry Research Organisation seeks to improve subsurface hard rock deposit investigations

THE Mineral Industry Research Organisation (MIRO) has proposed a project to develop existing 3D geo-electrical ground-imaging technology for use in hard rock deposit investigations.

Hard rock deposits are often complex and more difficult to characterize than sands and gravels, but despite this the investigative process has remained virtually unchanged over many decades.

With complex hard rock deposits the use of discrete sampling methods can be problematic because they are unable to characterize fully the spatial variability of the subsurface.

However, the proposed project will enable a shift from point sampling to fully volumetric, high-resolution subsurface characterization using electrical resistivity tomography (ERT).

Specific objectives of the project will be to:

• design and test sensor array configurations for a range of hard rock problems
• demonstrate proof-of-concept at the site scale in significant geological settings
• enhance imaging capabilities to allow the detection of sharp boundaries by adapting algorithms developed for medical ERT imaging
• integrate the new geophysical approach with current practice to facilitate take-up of the technology
• develop routes to market for the application and products.

Companies wishing to participate in the project in collaboration with MIRO should contact Jon Aumonier: jon.aumonier@miro.co.uk