Delineation of Preferential Leachate Migration Pathways Using 3D Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) in Ngor-Okpala, Nigeria

Abstract

This research employs 3D Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) to investigate preferential leachate migration pathways from waste dumpsites in Ngor-Okpala, Nigeria. Leachate, containing dissolved contaminants, poses a significant threat to groundwater quality. By analyzing variations in subsurface resistivity, 3D ERT offers a non-invasive method for characterizing leachate plume distribution and identifying preferential flow paths. The study utilizes the ADMT 200S Digital Terrameter to acquire data along grid lines encompassing waste dumpsites and control stations. Generated 3D resistivity models reveal distinct low-resistivity anomalies associated with leachate plumes. These anomalies delineate preferential flow paths influenced by subsurface geological features and variations in soil permeability. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of 3D ERT for delineating leachate migration patterns and informing environmental management strategies in the Ngor-Okpala region.