Abstract:
In this study, four geophysical methods were adapted for the sand deposit exploration. The adapted geophysical exploration methods are seismic survey, resistivity survey, ground penetrating radar survey (GPR) and magnetic survey. The results of subsurface geological features, in this case the distribution of sand formation, will provide the basis for the sand pit design and development. In this attempt, the results interpreted from these four geophysical models will be compared in reference to the actual drill holes data. The geophysical survey provides the spatial images of sand formation distribution and also reveal its physical characteristics which in turns can summarize into its overall quantity of reserve and nature of deposit. The interpreted data also presents the extension and thickness of sand layer, overburden, water table, and the boundaries of other layers. The comparison results of these four derived geological models to the drill hole data lead to the conclusion that the resistivity survey is the most suitable geophysical exploration method for sand deposit exploration. The geological model derived from resistivity data generates the most continuity of sand layer and also provides a sharp distinction along the boundary of the deposit, thus the most reliable information for reserve calculation. In term of field operation, resistivity survey yields fast data collection and analysis. In summary, this study shows that the resistivity survey proven to be most suitable and reliable surface geophysical model for sand deposit exploration. This technique can reduce the number of drill hole, and then reduce the exploration cost and finally improve the sand pit design and development.