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Geophysical Survey
Geophysical survey comprises a ground-based
suite of remote sensing techniques, employed, in the case of
archaeological geophysics, to characterise
and map buried cultural remains. Specifically the aims of archaeological
geophysics are to record the location, depth and nature of buried
structural remains and residues of human activity. Given that
geophysics are non-intrusive and a relatively rapid means of
archaeological prospection, such surveys are increasingly used
to shed light either on known archaeological sites prior to
excavation or evaluation, or as a means of assessing an archaeologically
'blank' area for buried cultural features. The fact that geophysical
surveys are rapidly carried out means that such an approach
is both cost effective in itself while also enabling subsequent
(and more expensive) invasive work to be better targeted. In
addition, geophysics offers a more environmentally sensitive
approach to investigating sites where intrusive archaeological
techniques are inappropriate or impossible.
Geophysical Services
ARCA has long experience of undertaking geophysical surveys,
both for commercial clients and for those carrying out non-commercial
research. ARCA has the ability to undertake, plot and report
on:
Resistivity surveys
 These
are carried out using a Geoscan
RM15 - D Resistance Meter with a twin or multi-probe electrode
configuration. This technique measures resistance to
an electrical current passed through the soil and is capable
of locating buried ditches, walls, pits and other similar
deposits. Resistivity surveys can detect buried archaeological
remains within 1m of the ground surface. Resulting
data are then processed and interpreted using a combination
of Geoscan's Geoplot and ESRI's
ArcGIS software.
Magnetometry surveys
These are carried out using a Geoscan
FM256 Fluxgate Gradiometer. This technique measures changes
in local magnetic fields and is capable of locating features
containing ferrous materials, residues of burning and objects
such as brick, tile and pottery in. Magnetometry surveys
can detect buried archaeological remains within 1m of the
ground surface. Resulting data are then processed and interpreted
using a combination of Geoplot and ArcGIS;
Magnetic susceptibility survey
This technique measures the near-surface
(100mm) magnetisation of the soil. Whereas the previously
mentioned geophysical techniques are able to detect archaeological
features and structures, magnetic susceptibility is used
to prospect for activity areas. ARCA employs the Bartington
MS2 meter and MS2D field probe to carry out magnetic susceptibility
surveys.
Costing
ARCA estimates costs for geophysical prospection on the basis
of the surface area to be surveyed (in m2 or hectares) and
the distance from ARCA's Winchester offices.
Find Out More
To discuss your geophysical survey requirements, contact Phil
Marter
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