Geological and geophysical surveys

A geophysical survey is a non-invasive method for assessing subsurface conditions by measuring variations in physical properties like density, magnetism, and conductivity. Used in geophysical site investigations and geological research, these surveys help identify underground structures, assess soil and rock composition, and detect potential hazards before construction.

Fugro’s survey and mapping services support both land and marine projects. Our marine geophysical surveys and offshore geophysical surveys provide critical data for offshore wind, oil and gas, and subsea infrastructure, ensuring safe and efficient project planning.

Geophysical surveys collect critical subsurface data to support geological investigation, infrastructure development, and environmental assessments. These surveys provide insights into:

• Subsurface Structure and Composition – Identifying rock formations, fault lines, and sediment layers for geophysical site investigations and geological research.

• Soil and Rock Properties – Measuring density, porosity, and strength to assess ground stability for construction and resource exploration.

• Seismic Activity and Ground Movements – Detecting potential geohazards, such as earthquakes and subsidence risks, through advanced geophysical survey methods.

• Groundwater and Fluid Movement – Locating underground water sources and monitoring fluid migration to aid environmental planning.

• Buried Infrastructure and Anomalies – Mapping pipelines, utilities, and archaeological sites with precision geophysical survey and mapping services.

Geophysical surveying employs a range of advanced techniques to map and analyse subsurface conditions. Key methods include:

• Seismic Surveys – Utilising controlled energy sources to map subsurface formations and seismic waves, widely used in geological investigation and offshore geophysical surveys.

• Gravity and Magnetic Surveys – Measuring variations in Earth's gravity and magnetic fields to detect mineral deposits and geological structures.

• Resistivity and Electromagnetic Surveys – Assessing electrical properties of the ground to identify groundwater reserves, contamination, and different rock types.

• Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) – Using radar waves to locate underground features, such as voids, pipes, and archaeological remains.

• Marine Geophysical Surveys – Conducting geophysical surveys offshore to map seabed conditions for offshore wind farms, cable routes, and oil exploration.

A seismic survey is one form of geophysical survey investigating the earth's structures. Seismic surveys are conducted by developing an array of energy sources and a variety of sensors or receivers in an area of interest. The seismic waves go through the ground and try to deduce the elastic properties of materials by measuring their response to elastic disturbances called seismic (or elastic) waves.

Most geophysical surveys take between 5-20 minutes to complete, depending on the site size and survey method used. Our team ensures the process is efficient, minimising any delays to your project.

The survey is completely non-intrusive and will not disrupt site operations. Using advanced geophysical survey methods, we collect high-quality subsurface data while maintaining safety and environmental considerations.

We provide a range of geophysical surveying techniques to deliver precise subsurface data for geophysical site investigations and geological research. Our key survey methods include:

• Gravity Survey – Measures variations in Earth's gravitational field to identify density changes in subsurface materials, useful for geological investigations and resource exploration.

• Resistivity Survey – Uses electrical currents to detect variations in underground materials, helping assess soil composition, groundwater presence, and structural integrity.

• GPR Survey – Employs radar pulses to create detailed subsurface images, ideal for detecting buried objects, voids, and infrastructure.

• Geophysics Survey – A combination of advanced survey methods, tailored to site-specific needs for accurate mapping and risk assessment.

Our geophysical survey and mapping services support a variety of industries, including construction, energy, and environmental projects, both on land and in marine geophysical survey applications.