Tensor CSAMT studies at the Buchans Mine in central Newfoundland

Abstract

A novel application of the tensor controlled source audio‐magnetotelluric (CSAMT) method was part of a multidisciplinary geophysical study of an existing mine site at Buchans, Newfoundland. The orthogonal components of the horizontal electromagnetic fields used for magnetotelluric and CSAMT interpretation of the earth’s conductivity structure were found to be inappropriate at Buchans because of strong scattering in the electric fields. Instead, the length of the major axes of the electric and magnetic field polarization ellipses and the vertical magnetic field were used as data. The data from two bipole sources demonstrate that the bulk response of the earth in the vicinity of Buchans is predominantly one‐dimensional (1-D). These data were inverted to layered earth models with a first‐order correction for electric field distortions. The parameter space considered during the inversion was contracted substantially by incorporating the vertical magnetic field data and by using depths to interfaces as determined by reflection seismic data. The model resulting from the inversions is essentially a two‐layered earth with an increase in resistivity between 1000–1400 m depth. The contrast in the electrical properties is interpreted to be coincident with the Powerline Fault, a floor thrust of a duplex structure with significant out‐of‐sequence movement. Hence, the thrusting may have caused the emplacement of older fractured, and locally mineralized rocks over younger more competent (resistive) ones.