Effectiveness of DC Resistivity Imaging and Shallow Seismic Refraction Techniques Around El Giza-Pyramid Plateau, Egypt

Abstract

The Giza plateau is considered the most characteristic examples of the ancient Egyptian civilization. It still attracts archeologists just like any other historical sites. Therefore it is important to carry out a geophysical survey representing seismic refraction and direct current resistivity imaging methods for mapping the different rock units around the pyramids and studying any groundwater infiltration that might have a bad impact on the archeological remains. The results have shown the presence of geoseismic layer of high velocity value corresponding to the dolomitized limestone, the main lithologic unit of the pyramid plateau. It is covered at some localities by moderate and\or low velocity geoseismic layers. The low velocity layer is interpreted as friable sand and fragments of limestone. The moderate velocity layer is interpreted as fractured-marly limestone that might be caused by the percolation of groundwater resulting from rainfall and drainage systems indicating relatively low resistivities as illustrated in 2D resistivity imaging results. The possibilities of the presence of archeologically small anomalies representing caves, mysterious tombs and/or secret rooms are indicated by localized anomalous resistivitities.