Exploration of Undercurrent Path for Hot Springs in Tibet by UAV-based Frequency Electromagnetic Induce Method

Abstract

Hot springs are useful resources for a wide range of fields, including tourist industry and power generation. In this study, an UAV-FDEM instrument is proposed, which use the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to carry a multi-coil Frequency Electromagnetic induce (FDEM) instrument for scanning survey in the field. We exploit the new method to investigate the electrical conductivity (EC) distribution around the hot springs in the Yangbajing, Tibet. The results clearly present the boundary of high and low EC zones, and indicate the undercurrent path of hot spring based on the measured EC values. These discoveries by UAV-FDEM are confirmed by the electric resistivity tomography (ERT) measurements. Our investigations also reveal the causes of hot spring formation i.e., the exposure of shallow groundwater or the eruption of deep conduit hot water.