DETECTION OF TECHNOGENIC STRUCTURES USING METHODS OF APPARENT ELECTRICAL RESISTIVITY

Abstract

An analysis of ring and linear zones of decreased electrical resistivity (AR) on the sites of underground nuclear explosions (UNE) of Semipalatinsk Test Site has been implemented; the zones were detected using field surveys and we established their difference from the AR distribution at the sites distanced from the UNE implementation places. Linear zones of decreased values of AR belong to the occurrences of geological faults renewed by nuclear explosions, whereas ring zones – to the faults occurred as a result of local mechanical impact of a UNE onto the background rocks. Linear and ring zones belong to the technogenic structures. It has been established that technogenic zones have significantly great contrast and width in comparison with the occurrences of natural zones of faults distanced from the UNEs epicenters. The presented interpretation of geo-electrical features does not contradict the existing geological views and can be used during the study of water flows and assessment of radiation safety in the interior of UNEs sites.