Normalized full gradient of full tensor gravity gradient based on adaptive iterative Tikhonov regularization downward continuation

Normalized full gradient (NFG) method depends on the downward continuation of NFG values of gravity data. In this paper, I deduce an improved NFG method of full tensor gravity gradient (FTG) data by using x-, y- and z-directional analytic signals of FTG data. During the calculation, I introduce the adaptive iterative Tikhonov regularization downward continuation method in the calculation process to improve the stability of the NFG method. The new approach is tested on various model data with and without noise, and satisfactory results are obtained. It demonstrates that the new NFG method of FTG can improve the lateral resolution and describe the gravity bodies in more detail. In addition, the method is applied to a real field FTG data acquired over the Vinton Salt Dome, Louisiana, USA. All results demonstrate that the new method can accurately detect the depth of the geologic sources while providing enhanced information of the sources simultaneously.