Knowledge Bank

Fracture trace analyses are historically proven methods of studying and predicting subsurface aquifer prevalence and flows within fractured bedrocks and are ultimately useful for producing target well drilling sites in areas of highly concentrated fracture traces. Recent advances in technology have allowed for greater access to high resolution satellite imagery datasets suitable for hydrogeologic use. Fracture trace analyses have been performed in part by taking advantage of these recent technological improvements, but none have completely removed the need for field measurements or aquifer pump tests.
In this study, the applications of remote sensing data towards fracture trace analyses have been examined within literature, and a process has been produced, tested, and iteratively improved in which fracture traces may be produced utilizing only remote sensing techniques. This process is most applicable in test areas where field studies are unavailable or impractical, but existing satellite data are available for use. These situations are often met within humanitarian drilling projects in rural regions of Africa, such as those presented here. Data comparisons of the results of this study show this process produces results similar to those found in existing literature. Similarly, the data suggest that this process can identify well target sites with potential for significant improvements in water output quantity, and that the concepts presented in this study merit further exploration.