Applications and modelling of high sensitivity potassium gradiometers for near surface geophysics

Near surface geophysical methods and their role in Archaeology; Environmental and Engineering; and Unexploded Ordnance Detection applications is migrating from "anomaly detection" to characterization. With this trend, some instrument manufacturers are conducting research and development in to equipment capable of resolving targets more effectively. This paper focuses on the development and field testing of GEM'S new Optically Pumped Potassium system. The new technology provides high sensitivity; rapid sampling and high bandwidth; and "clean" geophysical signal (i.e. low heading error). Gradient tolerance is also enhanced.