Accurate calibration and interpretation of airborne electromagnetic data. There is increasing interest in using airborne electromagnetic (AEM) data to explore structural features hidden beneath the earth's surface. At present, 2D images of these features can be built up using approximate 1D models that predict electrical conductivity. This research will develop 2D models that allow accurate imaging of 3D structures. Applications include mineral and diamond exploration, the mapping of leakage fro ....Accurate calibration and interpretation of airborne electromagnetic data. There is increasing interest in using airborne electromagnetic (AEM) data to explore structural features hidden beneath the earth's surface. At present, 2D images of these features can be built up using approximate 1D models that predict electrical conductivity. This research will develop 2D models that allow accurate imaging of 3D structures. Applications include mineral and diamond exploration, the mapping of leakage from tailings dams, and more precise mapping of dryland salinity. The project also aims to develop a method to calibrate AEM systems, leading to more accurate environmental mapping and significant long-term economic benefits.Read moreRead less
Accurately locating the depth and distribution of saline waters with improved shallow conductivity sounding using broadcast radio transmissions. Conductivity meters such as the EM31 are in routine use for mapping shallow salinity, but provide no depth information. This research will provide methodology using broadcast radio transmissions to additionally provide the depth information needed to interpret shallow layering and inhomogeneity. Instruments will initially be tested on the ground, but a ....Accurately locating the depth and distribution of saline waters with improved shallow conductivity sounding using broadcast radio transmissions. Conductivity meters such as the EM31 are in routine use for mapping shallow salinity, but provide no depth information. This research will provide methodology using broadcast radio transmissions to additionally provide the depth information needed to interpret shallow layering and inhomogeneity. Instruments will initially be tested on the ground, but are ultimately intended to be applied from the air, where existing systems have no resolution in the top 5 m. The method will provide crucial root-zone data for precision agriculture in salt-affected areas, and address accurate salt mapping issues in the major efforts to combat Australia's salinity problems.Read moreRead less
ARC Centre of Excellence - in Ore Deposits. Australia's minerals industry faces a two-fold challenge - to find new ore deposits and to mine them with maximum efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Those challenges demand a new generation of focused ore deposit research, tailored specifically for the Australian context. The Centre of Excellence in Ore Deposits will provide the foundation of fundamental research required by a successful, efficient and sustainable Australian minerals industry ....ARC Centre of Excellence - in Ore Deposits. Australia's minerals industry faces a two-fold challenge - to find new ore deposits and to mine them with maximum efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Those challenges demand a new generation of focused ore deposit research, tailored specifically for the Australian context. The Centre of Excellence in Ore Deposits will provide the foundation of fundamental research required by a successful, efficient and sustainable Australian minerals industry. The Centre will also play a leading role in the undergraduate and postgraduate training of future geoscientists. The concentration of internationally recognised researchers in the Centre will ensure it maintains its premier position in the international ore deposit research arena.Read moreRead less