Polarization processes in rocks: 2. Complex Dielectric Permittivity method

Abstract

This is the second part of a review of research performed in the former USSR. Experimental data were used from several regions of the USSR, including Russia, Ukraine, and Georgia. Many of the publications are available in U.S. libraries. Some of them are translated into English. This part considers results of studying rocks with the Complex Electrical Resistivity method, primarily in the frequency range from 0.01 Hz to 50 MHz. Results of studying polarization processes in sedimentary rocks of different lithology and porosity with different types of saturation (salt solutions of various salinity and hydrocarbons) are described. Laboratory studies of ore‐mineral containing rocks are also considered. Describing the measurement methods, we have placed primary emphasis on means for avoiding or reducing the electrode polarization effects. It is shown that wet rocks may have two polarization processes: one at low frequencies, below 1 Hz, and one at high frequencies, above 10 kHz. The mechanisms of these processes are discussed based on experimental results.