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Radio Imaging Method

 
2004 R&D Award Winner: RIM IV Imaging System

 

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Stolar has pioneered development of Radio Imaging Method (RIM) instrumentation since 1983 and is a sole-provider of advanced RIM technology and survey methods. Stolar currently runs parallel and continuous programs for both advanced R&D of RIM equipment and full commercialization of its field services for a world market. To date, Stolar has performed over 800 RIM surveys worldwide.

Stolar’s state-of-the-art RIM instrumentation is capable of detecting and locating geological structures and stratagraphic changes using large-scale tomographic images of surveyed areas-of-interest. RIM is based on the transmission of radiowaves through the area-of-interest and uses radio signal changes along hundreds of ray paths to reconstruct the physical characteristics of the geology. Unlike radar techniques, RIM is an electromagnetic radiowave TRANSMISSION method; the transmitter (TX) and receiver (RX) are separated and must be placed on either side of the area-of-interest – RIM is not Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR). RIM also uses much lower frequencies than conventional GPR, allowing for long range signal propagation if necessary. Typical imaging distances range from 100 to 2000 feet depending on geology type.

RIM instrumentation measures radio-wave signal attenuation rates and phase shift, for each ray path collected, which are unique to the geologic conditions. The data is used to generate tomographic images (tomograms) to predict properties of the host media and identify geologic structures. Essentially mapping conductivity changes for 2-D and 3-D structures, RIM can create images of layered formations, can detect geologic anomalies in host rock, can image metalifferous ore bodies, and can detect and scale void spaces (natural and man-made).  

RIM techniques can be used in massive, half-space applications (spherical spreading), however, RIM is best applied in layered formations where waveguide properties constrain the signal to a 2-D wavefront (cylindrical spreading). This waveguide behavior increases signal propagation range and can allow for the use of higher frequencies (implying better resolution). The principle radiowave propagation mode used in typical layered formations is a Quasi-TEM mode for RF frequencies below the AM-Radio Band (low to mid-frequency range). In most cases, RIM is extremely sensitive to differences in geologic conductivity and resolution is achieved through very tight, dense ray path patterns and inversion routines utilizing tens of thousands of ray paths on centimeter intervals.

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RIM applications include, but are not limited to:

  • Locates geologic anomalies and hazards in mining applications (sand channels, faults, and intrusions)
  • Provides longwall-coal reconnaissance and identifies geologic anomalies ahead of the mining face
  • Detects continuity, changes in thickness, and constituents in a layered formation. (used to assess grade and quality or deposit)
  • Maps paleochannel margins for improved ground control
  • Delineates ore bodies and mineralization zones in layered or non-layered host rock
  • Detects and maps old mine works or natural void spaces
  • Requires minimal logistics and survey times, rapid results

 

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RIM Technology
RIM Applications

For more information on Stolar's radio geophysics, please contact Joseph Duncan at: jtd@stolarhorizon.com