About the method

Transient electromagnetic method (TEM)

The transient electromagnetic method (TEM), with time-domain induced polarization (TDIP) where required, records the response of the ground after the transmitter current is switched off. It helps investigate conductive and polarizable targets.

TEM/TDIP surveys are sensitive to conductive and polarizable targets at different depths. They help locate ore bodies associated with sulfides or graphite and clarify the geological structure of a site.

SMART GEOPHYSICS provides a complete TEM/TDIP survey service: survey design, field measurements, data processing, interpretation and a final technical report.

  • MethodTEM/TDIP pulsed electrical prospecting
  • SensitivityConductive and polarizable objects at different depths
  • Field workMobile complex for quality control of measurements
  • ResultResponse curves, sections, interpretation and reporting

What can TEM/TDIP surveys achieve?

We select the transmitter-loop configuration, measurement parameters, and network density based on the geological task, site area, topography, and required exploration depth.

01

Search for ore conductors

Identification of zones of low resistance associated with sulphide mineralization.

02

Polarizable zones

Detection of disseminated mineralization by polarizability anomalies.

03

Deep geological structure

Thickness of cover deposits, position of ore bodies, faults and contacts.

04

Selecting drilling points

Justification of borehole locations based on geoelectric sections.

TEM/TDIP results are compared with geology, geochemistry, magnetic exploration and drilling data.

More about the method: electrical exploration and IP

Application

When is MPP applied?

Search operations

Identification of promising conductive and polarizable zones at an early stage of research.

Detailing of anomalies

Clarification of the geometry and spatial position of anomalies in selected areas.

Geological model

Comparison of electromagnetic data with geological structure and other types of information.

Preparing for drilling

Ranking of targets and justification of directions for subsequent detailed work and drilling.

TEM/TDIP equipment and survey parameters

The mobile field system includes a transmitter, receiver, cables and a transmitter loop. The configuration is tailored to the task and site conditions.

Method TEM/TDIP — pulsed electrical prospecting
Complex Transmitter, receiver, cables and loop
Work plan Profile or area survey
Parameters Selected based on the geological task and site conditions
Quality control Checking the completeness and stability of measurements in the field

The transmitter-loop size, the observation network, the volume and timing of the work are determined after analyzing the site, source materials and requirements for the result.

Equipment for the transient process method

How the work is carried out

Stage 1

Design

  • Formulation of the geological problem and analysis of initial data
  • Selecting the transmitter-loop configuration, parameters and observation network
  • Preparation of the program and logistics of field work
Stage 2

Field measurements

  • Reconnaissance and deployment of the transmitter loop
  • Recording transient responses: area survey or work on profiles - according to the task
  • Control of data quality and completeness directly in the field
Stage 3

Processing and interpretation

  • Processing field records and checking the accuracy of results
  • Construction of maps, response curves, sections and models
  • Integration with geological, geochemical and other geophysical data
Stage 4

Reporting

  • Preparation of final graphic materials and interpretations
  • Technical report with conclusions and recommendations
  • Transfer of raw and processed data in an agreed format
Result of the work

What does the customer receive?

Geoelectrical section 0 m 1200 m depth conductive zone

Geoelectric section

The section has been interpreted taking into account the available geological materials.

Signal, mV 0.1 1 10 100 1000 ms Time (logarithmic scale)

Transient decay curves

Time response curves with logarithmic axes for observation points.

50 m 150 m 300 m Conductivity, S/m low high

Conductivity maps at different depths

Distribution of conductivity at different depths to identify conductive zones in an area.

TECHNICAL REPORT

Technical report

Methodology, results, conclusions and recommendations for the next stage of the research.

If the data already exists: processing and interpretation of geophysical data

Experience

Projects using MPP

SMART GEOPHYSICS performs multi-site surveys and comprehensive geophysical research in Kazakhstan. For each site, the work program is selected based on the geological objective, site accessibility, initial data, and final product requirements. Specific projects are published only upon client approval.

Partners

Partners and clients

Questions and Answers

Frequently asked questions about the MPP method

What can TEM/TDIP surveys reveal?

TEM/TDIP helps identify conductive and polarizable targets, estimate their positions and refine the geoelectric model of the site. We interpret results alongside geological and drilling data.

What are TEM/TDIP surveys used for?

The method is used to locate ore bodies and mineralized zones, refine the geological section, investigate anomalies and plan further exploration and drilling.

What determines the depth of investigation?

Transmitter-loop size, instrument settings, rock conductivity, noise levels and site conditions. We estimate the depth of investigation for the specific survey program.

What information is needed before work begins?

The geological objective, site boundaries, existing maps, sections and drilling data, plus the desired investigation depth and delivery format. We can help define missing parameters.

What deliverables does the client receive?

Field and processed data, transient-decay curves, maps and geoelectric sections, interpretation, and a technical report with recommendations. Deliverables are agreed in the scope of work.

Can TEM/TDIP be combined with other methods?

Yes. TEM/TDIP can be combined with electrical resistivity and IP surveys, magnetic surveying, geochemistry and borehole geophysics for more reliable interpretation.

What determines the scope and cost?

The site area and terrain, survey-grid density, loop configuration, accessibility, noise levels and processing scope. We prepare a work plan and estimate after reviewing the available data.

Get a preliminary TEM/TDIP survey plan for your site

Tell us about the geological task, the site, and the available materials. SMART GEOPHYSICS specialists will suggest a project configuration, the scope of the deliverables, and the next steps in the exploration.