A Description of Field Setup and Common Issues in 2-D Electrical Resistivity Tomography Data Acquisition

Electrical resistivity tomography is a geophysical imaging technique utilized commonly for shallow subsurface investigations in support of civil structural, environmental, utility and archaeological investigations. For engineering consulting businesses that use this survey method extensively, the acquisition of reliable resistivity data using proper equipment in a timely manner is crucial for data processing, interpretation, and overall client satisfaction. Tough site conditions and human errors can negatively affect the speed of acquisition, data quality and hence affect the overall project timeline and cost. Based on the extensive use of an AGI SuperSting resistivity meter system, this paper addresses the general surveying procedures with emphasis on common problems encountered and offers solutions accordingly. The most common issues are improper connections, hard or dry ground, overgrown vegetation and rain at the surveying site. Operations that could speed up the process can also be beneficial for engineers and researchers who acquires the data in a similar setting.