Geophysics case studies

Real-life case studies are usually participants' favourite part of AusIMM Courses. Below, we provide a glimpse into two case studies from the Geophysics for Mining Professionals Professional Certificate. 

Case study 1

General location of a disused mercury pond

The client in this case study was interested in finding where a mercury settling pond was placed within a soil mound, with limited historical information on the location, depth and extent of the pond. 

Aaron Tomkins, Principal Geoscientist, GBG Group, delves into the primary aims of a geophysical survey that were agreed upon, which geophysical methods are required, the scope of works, how to develop a survey plan, how to interpret results based on the data, resistivity results, IP anomaly, and outcomes for the client.

Case study 2

Tailings storage facility

A large copper gold porphyry deposit required a large tailings facility. The proposed storage site was in a remote area of Papua New Guinea. Liquefaction potential was identified as a leading risk factor, so a study into the subsurface was initiated. In this case study, Aaron takes participants through the project, the aim, and the results so they can complete a descriptive report outlining the results, and provide an interpretation.

When you enrol in the Geophysics Professional Certificate, you will have full access to these case studies, as well as weekly live virtual classrooms, interactive learning activities and a community-based learning environment. Learn more.

Gain a detailed introduction to geophysics with the AusIMM Professional Certificate in Geophysics for Mining Professionals. Learn more here.

We spoke to Aaron Tomkins, Principal Geoscientist, GBG Group about what geophysics is, how it's utilised in mining, his pathway into geophysics and the function of the Geophysics for Mining Professionals online course. Read the 2 minute interview here.