Automatic conversion of magnetic data to depth, dip, and susceptibility contrast using the SPI (TM) method

Abstract

The Source Parameter Imaging (SPI™) method computes source parameters from gridded magnetic data. The method assumes either a 2-D sloping contact or a 2-D dipping thin‐sheet model and is based on the complex analytic signal. Solution grids show the edge locations, depths, dips, and susceptibility contrasts. The estimate of the depth is independent of the magnetic inclination, declination, dip, strike and any remanent magnetization; however, the dip and the susceptibility estimates do assume that there is no remanent magnetization. Image processing of the source‐parameter grids enhances detail and provides maps that facilitate interpretation by nonspecialists. The SPI method tests successfully on synthetic profile and gridded data. SPI maps derived from aeromagnetic data acquired over the Peace River Arch area of northwestern Canada correlate well with known basement structure and furthermore show that the Ksituan Magmatic Arc can be divided into several susceptibility subdomains.