Case histories in the use of three dimensional inversion of induced polarisation and resistivity surveys

Abstract

With the advent of fast three dimensional inversion software for IP and resistivity data, attempts have been made to optimise survey techniques to maximise the quality and quantity of 3D field data for a given survey cost. The result has been the development of the Offset Pole-dipole array. This survey geometry has now been used on many mineral exploration projects and a considerable degree of expertise in the execution of these surveys has been gained and some of the pitfalls associated with the technique have been discovered. Three short case histories which involve this technique are presented which demonstrate the effectiveness of the technique and some of the problems encountered in its execution. The Pegmont and Maronan prospects lie in the Eastern Succession of the Mount Isa Inlier in Northwest Queensland. The Mineral Hill Mine is in Central NSW. The Pegmont Prospect is presented as this was the first prospect surveyed with the technique. The Maronan and Mineral Hill surveys illustrate both the relative efficiency of the Offset Pole-dipole survey technique and some of its more serious limitations.