Thermal Imaging System for Multi-spatial and Multi-temporal Geoscience Investigations

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Geological processes, such as sedimentary basin evolution, ore and hydrocarbon deposition, and volcanism and tectonism are inextricably linked to fluid flow processes. To understand the role of fluids in geological processes, we need to consider how fluid flow may be coupled to other processes, such as heat transfer and mechanical deformation. Thermal infrared (TIR) imaging of geological media (rock, soils, etc.) can enable the discrimination of low temperature contrasts between the fluid and the media through which it flows, while differences in surface emissivity can be used to characterise zones of alteration. The recent development of more portable and capable high resolution TIR video systems now permits accurate measurement of alteration, fracture networks and fluid in rock masses, making it possible to fully apply geomechanical and geochemical modelling to examine the temperature-dependent physicochemical processes of fluid flow. However, to date, there has been no comprehensive multi-spatial and multi-temporal study of multi-phase fluid flow through fractured geological media. The thermal images collected with this instrument will be draped on LIDAR/photogrammetric models along with the results of 3D ground deformation models. Eventually, in association with industry, we hope to develop the ability to fuse the thermal image data (in a similar manner to photogrammetry) to provide true 3D thermal models. Using the TIR video capability, the temporal progression of multi-phase fluid flow can be measured, and when integrated with multiple geophysical, geochemical and geomechanical datasets, produce comprehensive 4D models of the physicochemical fluid history. The TIR imaging system requested here will be employed immediately in a novel collaborative project to investigate the processes controlling multi-phase fluid (gas and liquid) flow through fractured geological media. We will explore the multi-temporal and multi-spatial characterization of seepage from fractures in natural (e.g. hydrological, geothermal) and engineered (e.g. soil and rock slopes, underground excavations) environments.