A new algorithm for processing data of the improved multi-electrode electrical exploration method: application to groundwater investigation

Scientists are always interested in improving the efficiency of geophysical methods. In particular, one of the critical stages is the processing of data measured in geophysical surveys. This study aims to develop a new data processing algorithm of the improved multi-electrode electrical exploration method, and then apply it to investigate groundwater in Vientiane province, Laos as a case study. Our new proposed algorithm has two data processing options (option 1 and option 2) depending on the object to be studied. The results show that both options can determine the boundary of groundwater table. The proposed algorithm can provide the better results compared to the traditional algorithm. The results obtained at profile 1, site 1 in the study area suggest the presence of a potentially high-quality groundwater layer at depths ranging from 22 to 100 m. This finding aligns with the data from Borehole 1 in Phonhong District, situated directly above Profile 1, which similarly indicates a groundwater level at a depth of approximately 22 m. However, with option 2, the groundwater table has a wide variation, not as flat as the treatment results under option 1. The use of the improved Petrovski parameter rho(ct)(pm) (option 2) helps to bring the results with high resolution, which in turn helps to show point/block objects more clearly. Thus, depending on the research object and purpose, it is possible to use only one of the two options and still obtain good results.