Surface NMR to Image Aquifer Properties in a Magnetic Subsurface

Abstract

Surface Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) is a non-invasive geophysical technique providing the ability to image and investigate aquifer properties. In order to produce reliable images and interpretations of subsurface properties accurate modelling of the underlying physics is required. In magnetic environments, where the background magnetic field varies spatially, challenges can arise that lead to difficulty accurately modelling the excitation process and interpreting the signal's time dependence. We demonstrate using field data collected in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands of South Australia that neglecting the influence of the magnetic environment can significantly alter the final images and interpretation of the subsurface structure and properties.