Environmental geophysics, a subset of near-surface geophysics, is a new and
growing area of modern applied geophysics. The field involves using
state-of-the-art technology to "image" the subsurface remotely.
Detailed characterization of the shallow subsurface is important in
environmental, groundwater, and geotechnical engineering applications.
Contamination delineation and characterization
Geophysical exploration methods are used today for the determination
of the extent of subsurface polluted soils or the groundwater
table. These methods have been proved very effective in the detection
and mapping of contaminant plumes. Geophysical methods
can be used to evaluate the extent of existing problems, to predict
where pollutants will go in the subsurface.
Waste disposal sites investigation
Geophysical
exploration methods can identify critical areas in waste disposal
sites and prevent contamination of groundwater from occurring. Geophysics
can be applied in and kind of waste disposal facilities such as
hazardous waste landfills or Municipal solid waste landfills.
Guidance for exploratory drilling programs
Geophysical methods are used today as guidance tool for
reconnaissance drilling because they are non-destructive, in situ,
provide greater sampling density and in some cases continuous
measurements. They help to guide the placement of holes for more
expensive "direct sampling" ("smart holes").
