mapping a salt dome

The aim of this research was to map a salt dome to a depth of several kilometers using the magnetotelluric measuremen technique. The salt dome is filled with salt water and the top of the salt dome is expected to be located at a depth of approximately 500 meters.

Techniques

Seismic research is usually used to map deeper geology such as salt domes. However, in most cases the depth range and accuracy of magnetotelluric measurements is much more favorable. This technique can replace, but as a rule is used in combination with seismic surveys.

Results

The salt dome has been mapped to a depth of almost two kilometers. The blue colors represent a soil composition with high electrical resistance. The red and yellow colors indicate soil material with a low resistance (and therefore high conductivity). The contour in the figure corresponds to the true position of the salt dome.