Design and Implementation of a Composite Array Resistivity Data Logger for High-Resolution 2D Inversion Modeling

Abstract

The use of resistivity meters to model subsurface conditions is widespread. However, commercial instruments are mostly limited to conventional configurations, such as Wenner, Schlumberger, and dipole-dipole. Moreover, we cannot modify the program on the instrument. In this study, we designed and implemented a DC resistivity meter that can potentially be developed in the future and can be used in composite array configurations. This instrument uses a half-bridge SMPS as a power supply, which is capable of generating a large power, an Arduino Uno, and several sensor modules as part of a flexible and easy-to-program control unit. We conducted laboratory and field tests, comparing two types of configurations, namely Wenner and composite arrays (dipole-dipole and gradient). We then processed the data using ResIPy software, which enables displaying complex data sets in the form of 2D cross-sections and assessing the quality of post-processing data. We obtained good data with low RMS misfit that matched the synthetic media created in laboratory testing and compared well with previous research.