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Case Studies in Exploration and Environmental Geophysics
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:08:16
Abstract
This course focuses on benefits and limitations of geophysical methods applied to problems of high societal relevance. It is demonstrated, how seismics, ground-penetrating-radar and other electromagnetic methods can be employed in geothermics, the cryosphere, hydrocarbon exploration, natural hazard assessments and radioactive waste disposal problems.
Objective
This course is set up for both, geophysicists and non-geophysicists. The former will become familiar with applications of geophysical methods, for which they have learned the underlying theory in other courses. Non-geophysicists (i.e., potential users of geophysical technics, such as geologists and geotechnical engineers) will learn, which geophysical method or which combination of geophysical methods can be used to solve a particular in their realm. The main learning goal for both groups is to understand the benefits and limitations of geophysical techniques for important applications, such as exploration problems, waste disposal, or natural hazards.
Content
During the first part of the course, various themes will be introduced, in which geophysical methods play a key role. Module 1 (24.2./3.3): Geothermal Energy (M. Saar) Module 2 (10.3./17.3.): Radioactive Waste Disposal (T. Spillmann) Module 3 (24.3.): Natural Hazards (H.R. Maurer) Module 4 (31.3.): Cryosphere Applications (H.R. Maurer) Module 5 (7.4.): Marine Seismics (J. Robertsson) Module 6 (14.4.): Hydrocarbon Exploration (Fons ten Kroode) During the second part of the course, we will focus on Deep Underground Laboratories. They offer exciting opportunities for research associated with many themes covered in Modules 1 to 6. This block starts with an introductory lecture (28.4.), followed by visits of the three main Deep Underground Laboratories in Switzerland: 5.5 .: Mont Terri Laboratory 12.5: Bedretto Laboratory 19.5.: Grimsel Test Site The laboratory visits will occupy the full afternoons of the respective days. Of course, the visits will only be possible, when the COVID-19 situation will be appropriate. Otherwise, virtual laboratory tours are planned. For earning the credit points, at least two out of the three laboratory visits are mandatory, but the students are encouraged, to join all visits. Active participation of the students will be required. Prior to the laboratory visits, the students must familiarize themselves with one experiment (in total, not per laboratory), and they will introduce this experiment during the visit to their fellow students. Finally, a short report on the experiment assigned will have to be written. Presentation and report will contribute 50% to the final grade. The remaining 50% of the final grade will be earned during a project work on June 2. The students will receive a small project out of the themes of Modules 1 to 6. During a few hours, they will work independently on the project, and they have to summarize their results in a short report.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Course material will be provided in the teaching repository associated with this course.
Literature
Provided during the course
Learning Materials (Links)
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , MSC , GS
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Case Studies in Exploration and Environmental Geophysics |
|
35 h semesterly |
Offered In
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Electives (The electives listed are recommended. Additional courses can be chosen from the complete offerings of the ETH Zurich and University of Zurich.)
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