Microgravity investigation of an aquifer storage and recovery site in Abu Dhabi

Abstract

In this case study paper microgravimetry is used to investigate the geological structure of an area proposed for an aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) project in northeastern Abu Dhabi Emirate in the UAE. This study is a joint collaboration between the Environmental Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), Schlumberger Water Services, and the Petroleum Institute. The goal of the project is to explore the geological structure underlying the aquifer and to see if gravity can be used to help further delineate the lower aquifer boundary. The test site, approximately 4 km2 in area, contains an aquifer 50 m below the surface which is bisected by a thrust fault running approximately north to south.