Subsurface Characterization Using Ground and Underwater Resistivity Techniques for Groundwater Abstraction

Abstract

A geophysical method was used in studying the subsurface profile for investigating the aquifer existence at Jenderam Hilir, Selangor, Malaysia. The 2-D electrical resistivity technique is to determine the presence of aquifer suitable for groundwater abstraction. Resistivity was measured through an ABEM SAS 4000 Terrameter and ABEM Terrameter LS. 2-D electrical-imaging resistivity data of subsurface profile for each survey line were calculated inverse modelling, validate by borehole data which showed the lithology: sandy clay to sandy silt sediments more than 3 m deep, composed of alternating layers of silty and sand. The aquifer potential are mostly in silty sand zones which resistivity value should be within 60-800 ohm-m. Based on interpretation, a potential water-bearing aquifer was located at a depth of 3 m and below which is good agreement with interpreted results. 2-D underwater resistivity survey lines were conducted across the ground and river. Resistivity image was interpreted as silty sand under the river bed, which the subsurface aquifer on land has a physical contact with surface water. Result has shown that ground and underwater resistivity technique can be used as alternative method in finding a good location for groundwater abstraction.