Electromagnetic Induction as a Tool for Archaeological Research and Management: A New Manual

Summary

This is an abstract from the "Application of Geophysical Techniques to Military Archaeology" session, at the 89th annual meeting of the Society for American Archaeology.

Near-surface electromagnetic induction (EMI) instruments can complement gradiometry and other geophysical instruments for archaeological research and management. We discuss the Geonics EM38-MK2, an instrument that introduces a magnetic field into the ground and measures the electrical and magnetic responses of sub-surface materials. The electrical conductivity (EC) of sediments is mainly related to the presence of moisture, while the magnetic susceptibility (MS) is related to the presence of iron oxides. EMI can thus be used to map the presence of human-made features that retain moisture differently than the surrounding soil (e.g., pit features, filled ditches, etc.) and/or have enhanced MS associated with organic and heated sediments. The EM38-MK2 collects EC and MS datasets simultaneously without ground contact (required by resistivity instruments) and with less sensitivity to ferrous metal than a gradiometer, and EMI is better than gradiometry for detecting thin deposits associated with single burning events. We introduce a new manual designed for novice users of the EM38-MK2, funded by the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training of the National Park Service. The manual covers the physics of EMI, instrument calibration, survey techniques, and data processing. Case studies and strengths and weaknesses of the EMI technique are also discussed.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Application of Geophysical Techniques to Military Archaeology   •
• Society for American Archaeology 89th Annual Meeting, New Orleans, LA (2024)

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Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 40378.0