3D inversion of irregular gridded 2D electrical resistivity tomography lines: Application to sinkhole mapping at the Island of Corfu (West Greece)

A novel approach for the 3D inversion of irregularly gridded 2D electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) lines significantly enhances subsurface imaging, offering more accurate and flexible mapping compared to traditional quasi-3D methods. This study demonstrates that full 3D inversion can correctly locate and shape targets not directly beneath measured lines, as validated by synthetic data tests. Applied to the Old Town of Corfu, this method revealed critical insights into sinkhole structures linked to gypsum, elucidating potential formation mechanisms. The findings underscore the practical advantages of 3D interpretation for field surveys, improving both subsurface imaging and survey design flexibility.

Kim, J.-H., Tsourlos, P., Karmis, P., Vargemezis, G., & Yi, M.-J. (2016). 3D inversion of irregular gridded 2D electrical resistivity tomography lines: Application to sinkhole mapping at the Island of Corfu (West Greece). Near Surface Geophysics, 14(3), 275–285. Portico. https://doi.org/10.3997/1873-0604.2016009