Breaks in Resistivity Sounding Curves as Indicators of Hard Rock Aquifers

In a previous paper (Nordic Hydrology, Vol. 12, 1981), the authors have discussed the inadequacies in the technique of resistivity method for location of sites for constructing deep water walls in hard rock areas. It was pointed out that the water bearing fracture zones in the bed rock could not be identified by merely considering geoelectrical parameters such as layer resistivity. An empirical study based on the correlation of minor irregularities or deviations – “BREAKS” – in the normally smooth sounding curves with the actual driller's logs reveals that under normal geo-electric conditions these water bearing zones (hard rock aquifers) are indicated in the curve by a perceptible lowering of apparent resistivity and hence could be used as a guide for locating well sites. As such breaks may also be caused by other conditions such as lateral inhomogeneities, certain methods for distinguishing them are discussed.