Geophysical investigation of submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) at Königshafen (Sylt)
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Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) are investigated worldwide on different scales, because of their significant influence on the sea. . The DFG funded project “Königshafen Submarine Groundwater Discharge Network” (KiSNet) follows an interdisciplinary approach to optimize the combination of methods used. However, here we focus on geophysical investigations to locate SDG spots in the Königshafen bay. Geoelectric (ERT), seismic, electromagnetic (EMI), ground penetration radar (GPR) and nuclear magnetic resonance measurements (NMR) took place between 2019 – 2022. As the electrical resistivity differs between freshwater and saltwater, ERT and EMI are capable to locate groundwater discharge. While EMI covers easily larger areas, delivering 2D el. resistivity maps with an investigation depth confined to about 5m, vertical resistivity sections by ERT can image SGD’s in greater depth (up to 20m in this case). GPR profiles were also recorded along the ERT lines for a fast cross validation. Although GPR can practically not penetrate saltwater saturated sediments, it can if freshwater is present, i. e. at SGD spots. Another obstacle or ERT and EMI is that clay cannot be distinguish from saltwater because of its similar el. resistivity. Hence, NMR soundings were performed at locations with a high clay probability, because the NMR signal decays so fast in the presence of clay that it cannot be detected. So in case NMR shows zero decay time in a certain depth range and ERT images show a low resistivity, it is most likely caused by clay. The results show that geophysics can locate SGD’s with a high probability. It is recommended to start with EMI to obtain lateral resistivity maps, followed by ERT to image possible SGD’s locations in greater depth. Additionally, a cross validations with GPR can be made to distinguish between near surface artefacts and SGD’s. If necessary NMR soundings can be added to the survey if clay formations have to be identified.
