CSAMT (Controlled Source Audio-frequency Magneto-Tellurics) Method

Purpose: The CSAMT method is a powerful tool for subsurface resistivity mapping, primarily used in mineral, oil, and geothermal exploration, as well as for geologic mapping and groundwater studies. It provides deep penetration capabilities, making it ideal for detecting features at significant depths.

Applications:

Mineral and Oil Exploration: CSAMT is effective in detecting resistivity contrasts associated with mineral deposits and hydrocarbon reservoirs.

Geothermal and Groundwater Studies: Its deep reach aids in locating geothermal reservoirs and mapping groundwater, even in challenging terrains.

Technical Process: CSAMT involves transmitting audio-frequency signals from a transmitter placed over 20 km from the receiver lines. The Phoenix receivers and TXU-30 transmitter gather data across a broad frequency range, which Zond software processes into depth resistivity models. This produces detailed cross-sections that help in identifying subsurface structures and resources.

Key Uses: Ideal for deep subsurface exploration and resource mapping where significant depth penetration is required, CSAMT provides critical data for complex geologic environments.

• The CSAMT geophysical method builds on the AMT and MT methods.  Their main applications are for mineral/oil/geothermal exploration, geologic mapping and groundwater investigations.  These methods scan a range of frequencies. We can then produce a depth section resistivity model of the ground.  The main benefit of the magnetotelluric methods is that depth penetration can be quite significant. 
• Phoenix receivers and a TXU-30 transmitter collects the data. Software picks the optimum transmitter location but typically they are over 20 km away from the receiver lines. The transmitter line is at least 2 km between electrodes which consist of stainless steel rods and aluminun foil pits in swampy or wet locations.
• Zond software inversion models the results.
• See also:
  • CSAMT Surveys