Identification of lithological units using geo-electrical method, Olabisi Onabanjo University Campus, Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

The study presented the results obtained from estimation of the depth to the bsement bedrock (overburden thickness) in Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye using two configurations of electrical resistivity methods. The study was aimed to delineate the stratigraphy and thicknesses of the subsurface layer present in the study area for comprehensive study of the lithostratigraphic information of the area. Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) and 2-D Horizontal Electrical Profiling (HEP) techniques were used to obtain 1-D and 2-D subsurface resistivity images of the study area. The VES data were plotted manually on the Bi-log graph. The curve obtained was partially curve – matched to obtain the layer resistivities and thicknesses for further iteration. The 2-D resistivity imaging data were analyzed and processed to obtain the inverted (true) resistivity image. From the results, five (5) VES type curves were delineated. These includes H, HA, QH and KH type. The geoelectric sections and 2-D resistivity images showed three to four geoelectric layers. These layers are topsoil/laterite, weathered  basement, partly weathered/fractured basement and fresh basement. The study showed that materials with resistivity values that ranged between 10 and 298 Ωm and 152 and 589 Ωm representing clayey weathered layer and partly weathered/fractured basement were delineated beneath some sounding points. The clayey and weathered layer are indicative of soil formations that are inimical to foundation of civil engineering structure. Likewise, they can serve as reservoir for groundwater potential (if the porosity and permeability are high). Due to this, detailed lithostratigraphic evaluation through petrophysical analysis is encouraged for the purpose of mapping and correlation of the rock units before embarking on any engineering construction in the study area. The study concludes in providing assistance to subsequent research on the stratigraphic related studies in the area.