Understanding subsurface conditions is critical for safe and cost-effective engineering, yet traditional methods like drilling often face challenges such as site accessibility, environmental concerns, and high costs. Geophysical methods, like seismic techniques, drone-based magnetics, and ground-penetrating radar (GPR), offer a non-invasive, efficient alternative.

At Abitibi Geophysics, we leverage these advanced tools to provide precise and actionable insights into soil and rock properties, detect anomalies, and map subsurface structures. Our methods minimize environmental disruption, reduce costs, and enhance project efficiency, supporting reliable geotechnical decision-making.

Ready to discuss your project? Contact us today or keep reading for more insights!

How near-surface geophysics can help

By analyzing physical properties of the ground, geophysics provides critical data to support geotechnical investigations, including:

• Site characterization:
  Identifying bedrock depth, water table levels, and subsurface material properties to guide construction and infrastructure design.
• Risk mitigation:
  Detecting voids, fractures, and unstable ground to prevent potential failures in dams, foundations, or retaining walls.
• Material assessment:
  Locating gravel, clay, or other resources for construction projects.

Geophysical methods we provide

Seismic methods

Seismic surveys measure wave propagation to delineate subsurface layers, identify faults, and detect fractures. High-resolution seismic profiles are essential for mapping stratigraphy, aquifers, and other structural features critical to groundwater management. Additionally, seismic methods are invaluable for assessing infrastructure feasibility, soil stability, and potential liquefaction risks, providing vital data for the design of safe and durable structures in areas prone to seismic activity or unstable soils.

Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR)

GPR uses high-frequency electromagnetic waves to generate high-resolution images of shallow subsurface features. It is invaluable for detecting fractures, voids, and buried structures or infrastructure, and is especially effective in ice-rich or shallow environments. GPR is frequently employed to guide operations in fragile or hard-to-reach areas, ensuring safety and precision while minimizing environmental disruption.

Case study: GPR surveys measured ice thickness to optimize drilling operations while preserving the integrity of frozen environments.

Electromagnetic (EM) surveys

EM surveys detect variations in subsurface conductivity and help to identify discrete conductive bodies, enabling the identification of soil types, geological structures, and features like water-bearing formations, buried bedrock valleys, and contamination plumes. This method is suited for broad reconnaissance over large areas, offering a cost-effective solution for hydrogeological assessments and mapping subsurface lithology in complex environments.

Gravity surveys

Gravity surveys measure density variations in the subsurface, helping to detect voids, compacted soils, or other materials of contrasting density. This method is particularly effective for assessing slope stability, as it helps identify subsurface weaknesses and monitor changes over time. Additionally, gravity surveys are valuable for locating fault-controlled structures, aiding in both geotechnical assessments and infrastructure planning.

Magnetic surveys

Magnetic methods analyze variations in the Earth's magnetic field caused by subsurface features, offering valuable insights for locating metallic objects, and mapping geological structures. This technique is particularly useful for detecting buried utilities, faults, and other features critical to geotechnical assessments. High-resolution drone magnetics enhance efficiency by providing detailed coverage over large areas at a fraction of the cost of ground-based methods.

Case study: Drone magnetics pinpointed historic gas wells with high accuracy, demonstrating cost and time efficiency.

Acoustic Optical Televiewer

Televiewer imaging tools provide high-resolution borehole imagery, enabling detailed analysis of rock mass properties, fracture planes, and structural features. These tools are crucial for assessing the stability of rock anchors, dams, tunnels, and other infrastructure. These tools are designed to perform reliably in water-filled boreholes, using both sonar and imaging techniques to gather clear data even in murky conditions, making them suitable for a wide range of geotechnical investigations.

Resistivity survey

A resistivity survey measures variations in subsurface apparent resistivity by injecting current into the ground and measuring the potential difference, which can be used to interpret soil types and geological structures. Resistivity is effective for monitoring underground conditions, including moisture content, groundwater levels, and structural changes. This precise data is essential for assessing contaminant plumes, managing groundwater resources, and supporting site-specific management decisions.

Maximizing project efficiency

By integrating geophysical surveys into your geotechnical workflow, you can reduce reliance on extensive drilling, minimize environmental impact, and save costs. Our methods are designed to deliver accurate and actionable results, ensuring safer and more informed project decisions.

Ready to optimize your geotechnical investigations? Contact Abitibi Geophysics today!