Resource Optimization and Subsurface Mapping - Making the Most of Oil Fields, Aquifers and Geothermal Reservoirs

This paper will introduce a new subsurface mapping technique, analyzing its potential to improve upon the speed and accuracy of traditional imaging technologies while detailing its applications in oil recovery, ground water utilization and geothermal exploration. <br><br>The procedure entails the strategic placement of electrodes within the designated reservoir. The electrodes charge the extant water with a low voltage, low amperage, audio-frequency current. (In the case of oil recovery, the charged substance is the water flood or steam injection frequently used in residual oil extraction). The current running through the charged water creates a distinctive magnetic field that represents the location and character of the flow occurring between the electrodes and thereby reveals the essential features of the reservoir. This unique field is identified from the surface using a highly sensitive receiver. The data thus received is used to create either aerial maps or serial profiles of the reservoir in question.<br><br>This paper will examine the science behind the procedure, discuss its relevance for exploration geophysics, and analyze the lessons learned from recent case-study deployments of the technology. <br>