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Application of the resistivity method in characterizing fractured aquifer in sedimentary rocks in Abakaliki area, southern Benue Trough, Nigeria

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Abstract

Resistivity range for groundwater-bearing fracture zones was studied in the fractured shales and sandstones of pre-Santonian sedimentary succession in Abakaliki area, southern Benue Trough, Nigeria using vertical electrical sounding (VES) data and borehole lithologs. The results of the study indicate that resistivity of water-bearing fracture zones in the shales is ≤ 52 Ωm and about 107 Ωm in sandstones. These fractures occur at a depth of ≥ 18 m in shales but shallower (≥ 6 m) in sandstones. The wider the fracture, the more the resistivity tends to zero, and the higher the volume of water present in it. While the layer models define the water-bearing layer, the synthetic model defines depth to the top of the fracture and fracture thickness. The wideness of the fractures decreases gradually below 80 m depth. The spatial distribution of resistivity in the area indicates that resistivity increases with depth except for the fracture zones.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Geology, Federal University Lokoja, P.M. B. 1154, Kogi State, Nigeria

    Ikenna A. Obasi

  2. Department of Geology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria

    Nneka M. Onwa

  3. Department of Geology, Ebonyi State University, P.M.B. 053, Abakaliki, Nigeria

    Ezekiel O. Igwe

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  1. Ikenna A. Obasi
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  2. Nneka M. Onwa
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Correspondence to Ikenna A. Obasi.

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Obasi, I.A., Onwa, N.M. & Igwe, E.O. Application of the resistivity method in characterizing fractured aquifer in sedimentary rocks in Abakaliki area, southern Benue Trough, Nigeria. Environ Earth Sci 80, 24 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12665-020-09303-w

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