Oil Sands Exploration Using 2-D Electrical Imaging Technique

Abstract

This study describes the use of two-dimensional electrical imaging technique in defining regions of oil sand deposits and determining the geometry of such deposits in Imeri, South Western Nigeria. Three field survey lines were acquired in different orientations in the study area with one of the lines above the oil sand outcrop observed in the area. The Gradient electrode Configuration was employed to obtain apparent resistivity and chargeability of the subsurface. Very high resistivity value greater than 3000 ohm-m and pronounced induced polarization effects were associated with the region were the outcrop was observed. These electrical characteristics were used in delineating oil sand zones in the study area.

Keywords: Oil sand, electrical imaging, resistivity and induced polarization