A comparison between 2D azimuthal and 3D resistivity imaging techniques in determining the subsurface fracture zones within Abu-Jir Fault Zone, Southwest Karbala, Central Iraq

摘要

This experimental study presents a comparison between two-dimensional azimuthal and three-dimensional electrical resistivity imaging techniques at a given location within the Abu-Jir Fault Zone, Central Iraq. The aim is to examine which one is a better technique in order to study the subsurface fracture zones and to use it within and outside the fault zone. Our results show that the two-dimensional azimuthal imaging technique is quite successful in imaging the structural geology, particularly for effective identification and delineation of the subsurface fracture zones in all directions, whereas the three-dimensional imaging technique, carried out using data acquired in parallel two-dimensional imaging lines, gives limited and distorted images about these zones because the Y-spacing between the survey lines is quite small compared to the length of these lines. The two-dimensional azimuthal technique can be useful in deep investigations to determine the extent of the structures, particularly in areas with unknown geological and structural settings.