Integration of the GPR and radio-impedance techniques in studies of the Baikal rift zone

Abstract

Radio wave propagation techniques have been very rarely applied to investigate tectonic fault zones and geoelectric profiles of the Baikal rift zone. In our study, we used a combination of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and radio impedance techniques in order to identify and investigate tectonic crustal fault zones in the study area. Using soundings in the super-long, long and ultra short radio wave ranges (from tens of KHz to few GHz), we detected the tectonic fault zones in the seismically active Baikal rift zone, specifically in the Tunka depression and the areas of Southern Baikal and Kotokel lakes. Faults and fault zones were identified from impedance variations and changes in the geoelectric profiles by analyzing the radio impedance profiles and soundings in the super-long and long radio wave ranges. The georadiolocation of fault structures in the ultra-short wave range made it possible to differentiate the patterns of tectonic disturbances up to individual seismic dislocations in sedimentary and crystalline rocks and to determine the kinematics of movements in the fault zones. The techniques used in this study complement each other and ensure obtaining adequate quantitative descriptions of the study objects. By integrating various techniques of radio wave diagnostics, it is possible to obtain more detailed information on the structures of the tectonic fault zones. The results obtained in this study and the radio impedance and GPR sounding and profiling techniques developed to investigate a heterogeneous underlying medium can be used in seismological and geological engineering surveys of the eastern and northern regions of Russia.

Influence of the rock massif physical properties variability on the localization of its disturbances with GPR

“…In this regard, the use of nondestructive research methods that provide a continuous (profile) picture is preferable and much more economically profitable. To study the geological and structural structure of rock masses, GPR sounding is actively used [1][2][3][4]. This method is based on the radiation of an electromagnetic field to study changes in the physical properties of rocks within a massif.…”

“…Non-destructive GPR sensing has proven its effectiveness in studying the physical properties of rock deposits and can be successfully used to study the structure of rock masses. For example, to identify and study zones of tectonic disturbances (faults) in the earth's crust, combining ground penetrating radar with the radio impedance method is successful [3]. The use of the GPR method made it possible not only to identify the locations of faults, but also to determine their thickness and angles of incidence [4].…”