In this surveying method magnetic components of the electromagnetic field generated by long-distance radio transmitters in the VLF (Very Low Frequency) band are utilized. These transmitters are used for long- distance communication, and they operate at 15-30 kHz. Conductive structures on the surface or underground, even when covered with thick overburden, affect locally to the direction and strength of the field generated by the transmitted radio signal. The instrument measures the radio signal distortion and presents the result directly on a display screen. Normally, more than one profile will be needed to indicate whether or not the structure is a good drilling target. Running additional parallel profiles shows whether the zone is wide enough to provide a good yield. Depending on the terrain, profiles are run in irregular or regular patterns.
The process of conducting a VLF-EM survey typically involves the following steps:
Implementing VLF-EM surveys offers several key advantages over conventional subsurface exploration methods: