sTEM: a Next Generation Single Site Transient Electro-Magnetic Instrument for Groundwater Exploration

This paper introduces sTEM, a new ground-based transient electromagnetic (TEM) instrument that offers a cost-effective and user-friendly solution for groundwater exploration. The sTEM system emphasizes the importance of making geophysical instruments accessible to non-experts. While experienced geophysicists may utilize specialized processing and inversion techniques, most users are primarily interested in the resulting subsurface models rather than the raw data. Therefore, the sTEM instrument is designed to be easy to use and require minimal training, leading to a broader user base. The system consists of an integrated transmitter and receiver unit, a Transmitter coil, and a receiver coil. The system is powered by two lightweight lithium-ion batteries able to run a full day of production consisting of 15–20 soundings. It’s a dual moment system employing low and high moment transmission pulses at 1 and 10 Amp respectively. Depending on subsurface condition, the system can map down to a depth of 300–400m.

The potential of the sTEM system extends beyond groundwater exploration. It can be employed for salinity intrusion mapping, geotechnical applications, and mineral exploration, supporting the ongoing green transition. The affordability and portability of the instrument make it particularly valuable in remote areas where access to clean water and subsurface information is crucial.