Magnetometry as an alternative to identify aquifer potential areas. The case of the lower basin of the Grijalva River

Abstract

The main objective of this research is to identify aquifer potential areas of rock units within the sub-basins of the western portion of the lower basin of the Grijalva River by interpreting the magnetic responses obtained by applying various edge detection algorithms (i.e., Horizontal Gradient, Analytical Signal and TILT Derivative) and developing 3D models of the studied area based on voxels. For this, the processing of aeromagnetic data was carried out with the purpose of highlighting and identifying the outstanding geological characteristics. The results obtained allowed the identification of zones associated with sedimentary thicknesses which, when correlated with the altimetry data, allow us to infer that the north-central zone harbor the area with the greatest aquifer potential in the western portion of the lower basin of the Grijalva River. Thus, it seeks to contribute local knowledge and promote decision-making in geohydrological issues, territorial planning and related public policies.