Evaluation of Artifacts and Misinterpretation in 2D Electrical Resistivity Tomography Caused by Three-Dimensional Resistive Structures of Regular or Irregular Shapes

Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) is a well-known geophysical method applied to geological, hydrogeological and geoenvironmental research. To date, 2D ERT still used much more than 3D ERT, thanks its greater immediacy, survey speed lower complexity in processing inversion. However, the assumption of two-dimensionality underground structures can mean that effects on sometimes lead gross errors interpretation. This work aims evaluate these by testing synthetic experimental models. Numerical simulations are performed starting from different models, results, data sets derived study quantify inversion structures. Tests simulating prismatic resistive blocks with vertical square section presented. Prisms extend orthogonally line. Depending their length, they range minimum equal length (cubic block) infinity (2D prism). On electrical surveys simulated. The results show limited extension orthogonal profile not effectively resolved ERT. Additionally, values obtained prism underestimated those corresponding when compared true value. underestimation increases three-dimensional characteristics. Furthermore, located near line but crossed it create artifacts erroneous interpretations. A field test calcarenite quarry, which model was reconstructed, confirmed tests, highlighting three-dimensionality identification or produce strong estimation depth size, thus causing misleading statements.