System and Method for Mapping Deep Anomalous Zones of Electrical Resistivity

摘要

A system and method are provided for delivering current to a lower exposed end of a well in which a source of current is connected to a middle section of a well casing or tubing inserted in the casing with the middle section being electrically isolated from a first or upper section by an insulative coupler and treated to be electrically resistive. A cable is attached to the middle section and used to deliver current along the wall of the middle section to the lower exposed end such that the lower exposed end is used to generate an electric field in nearby geological zones. Changes in the generated electric field resulting from the nature of materials in the geological zones can be detected by surface or below ground monitors or sensors.

主权项

1. A system for transmitting an electric current from a bottom section of a well comprising:
a well conduit including a first segment proximate a well head, a second segment including an inner portion which is electrically conductive and an outer portion which is electrically resistive, and a third segment which is located at or near the bottom section of the well and is electrically conductive; a power source for providing the electric current; and an electrical connection between the power source and the inner portion of the second segment for transmitting the electric current from the power source to the second segment, through the second segment to the third segment, and into nearby geological zones from the third segment.