Abstract:
The authors have developed a method of deep geoelectric investigation using the 800-kV Volgograd-Donbass DC power line and have developed a set of programs for automated data processing and preliminary interpretation. Area and profile investigations of the electromagnetic field produced by the power line were made and were used to map the sedimentary cover and to identify three large conductive zones in the crust, which are promising in terms of nickel, coal, and oil. Remote sounding at distances of up to 500 km from the power line indicated a high transverse resistivity of the crust (at least 109 to 1010 ohm-m2). To study the conductivity of the deeper layers of the lithosphere, it will be necessary to increase the working distances to 1000 km and to calculate the effect of an inhomogeneous layer of conductive surface sediments.