Frequently Asked Questions

Electromagnetic (EM) geophysics maps subsurface electrical properties to find resources and detect hazards that seismic and other methods can miss. We use electromagnetic fields to create 3D images showing conductive ore bodies, groundwater resources, hydrocarbon reservoirs, geothermal systems, carbon sequestration geology, and contamination plumes from surface to kilometers deep.

EM surveys are non-invasive and work in challenging environments where drilling is impractical or prohibited. The method excels at detecting features with electrical contrasts, like metallic minerals, saltwater intrusion, or clay caps in geothermal systems.

Deep Blue Geophysics specializes in advanced 3D electromagnetic modeling and inversion using proprietary full-physics algorithms. We transform EM survey data into high-resolution subsurface models for mining, energy, environmental, research, and defense applications.

Our core services:

• 3D EM modeling and inversion (CSEM, MT, AEM, DC/IP, SIP)
• Joint inversion of multiple geophysical datasets
• Custom algorithm development
• Survey design and feasibility studies

While we do not currently conduct field surveys or manufacture equipment, we assist clients in developing and innovating survey design and new technologies. We primarily focus on advanced data analysis and interpretation.

We specialize in advanced 3D electromagnetic modeling that works where others don't. Our proprietary algorithms, developed by leading EM expert Dr. Kerry Key, handle complex geology, anisotropy, and spectral induced polarization (SIP) effects that simplified approaches can miss.

Key differentiators:

• Full-physics modeling: No assumptions or shortcuts that compromise accuracy
• Proprietary DeepBlueEM engine: Includes anisotropy and spectral IP effects
• Direct access to expertise: Work directly with world-leading EM scientists
• Accurate handling of topography: Our meshing solutions efficiently handle highly complex geologic surfaces

We support all major electromagnetic geophysical methods:

• Magnetotellurics (MT): Natural-source deep imaging to 100+ km depth
• Controlled-Source EM (CSEM): Marine and land
• Semi-airborne EM (AEM): Ground-to-air and air-to-ground hybrid EM methods
• DC Resistivity/IP: Including complex resistivity and spectral IP
• Borehole EM: Cross-hole and surface-to-borehole configurations
• Joint inversions: Combining multiple EM methods

Yes. Our unstructured modeling grids and finite element methods accurately represent:

• Rugged topography and bathymetry
• Sharp resistivity contrasts (1000:1 or greater)
• Thin conductive/resistive layers
• 3D anisotropic conductivity tensors
• Frequency-dependent IP effects

We specialize in challenging scenarios where simplified approaches fail: rugged mountainous topography; conductive sedimentary cover; salt tectonics; folded metamorphics; permafrost environments; and volcanic terrains.

Current options:

• Managed service: We run inversions, deliver results
• Enterprise solutions: Custom deployment for large organizations

We work with all standard geophysical data formats:

• Time series: SEG-Y, ASCII, manufacturer formats
• Processed data: EDI, XML, AVG files for MT
• Coordinate systems: Any projection, we handle conversions
• Additional data: Well logs, geological constraints, prior models

We prefer minimally processed data to apply our optimized workflows. Our team guides you through data preparation and format requirements.

Timeline depends on project scope and availability:

• Small projects (single survey): 2-4 weeks
• Standard projects (3D regional): 4-8 weeks
• Complex projects (joint inversion): 8-12 weeks

We leverage high-performance computing to accelerate processing while maintaining quality.

Pricing reflects our premium full-physics approach and expert oversight. We provide detailed proposals after understanding your specific needs.

Yes. We provide survey design and feasibility studies to optimize data collection:

• Sensitivity analysis for target detection
• Station/line spacing optimization
• MT frequency range and CSEM transmitter harmonic selection
• Cost-benefit analysis of survey options
• 2D vs 3D survey design comparisons

Our modeling predicts whether proposed surveys can achieve your objectives before you invest in fieldwork. We also provide QC support during acquisition.

Mining & Minerals: Copper, gold, lithium, and critical minerals exploration. EM excels at finding conductive sulfide deposits and mapping alteration zones.

Oil & Gas: Marine and land hydrocarbon exploration, reservoir monitoring, and geothermal resources.

Environmental & Groundwater: Contamination mapping, saltwater intrusion, aquifer characterization. Non-invasive assessment for regulatory compliance.

Defense & Infrastructure: Subsurface hazard detection, tunnel detection, infrastructure and intruder monitoring.

Standard deliverables include:

• 3D conductivity models: Voxel format, multiple file types
• Cross-sections and maps: Publication-ready figures
• Technical report: Methods, results, interpretation
• Digital files: Models for import to mining/modeling software
• Presentation: Virtual or in-person results review

All deliverables are tailored to your technical level and decision-making needs.

Quality assurance includes:

• Rigorous data QC: Noise analysis, outlier detection
• Multiple inversions: Testing different parameters
• Resolution analysis: Quantifying model uncertainty
• Synthetic testing: Validating detection capabilities
• Cross-validation: Comparing with known geology/wells
• Peer review: Internal technical review process

We provide uncertainty estimates and clearly communicate confidence levels for all interpretations.

Yes. Deep Blue Geophysics serves clients globally. We have experience with:

• Multi-currency contracts
• Various regulatory environments
• Remote project management, including daily QA/QC of survey data

Most work is completed remotely, minimizing travel costs and delays.