Geological environment of karst within chalk using airborne time domain electromagnetic data cross-interpreted with boreholes

•Detailed cross-interpretation of resistivity model with borehole data•Geological factors which triggered the development of a karstic network are evidenced.•Resistivity contrasts highlight an undulating geometry in the chalk.•Linear resistivity patterns in the first 150 m underline a fault network.

The ability of airborne Time Domain ElectroMagnetic (TDEM) to image plurikilometric chalk heterogeneities and its implications for the development of a karstic system is addressed in this study. A heliborne TDEM survey was conducted around Courtenay (France) over the Paris Basin Upper Cretaceous chalk. This aquifer is known as a highly weathered and karstified horizon both strongly modify chalk petrophysical properties. Numerous boreholes and one recently reprocessed seismic line were used in order to strengthen TDEM interpretations. We performed cross statistics between boreholes and the resistivity model. This allowed defining empirical resistivity ranges corresponding to the main geological formations within the area. We were therefore able to map large scale heterogeneities in the chalk over the study area. First, the TDEM method highlighted probable weathering corridors in the chalk, related to the tectonic activity, consistent with faults previously interpreted in the seismics at deeper levels. Second, it was possible to image a large scale undulating geometry in the chalk with a SW–NE orientation, this direction is consistent throughout the Paris Basin, and well defined on the cliffs of Normandy (Channel coast, north of France). This geometry has revealed two separate chalk deposits C1 and C2 in Courtenay area: C1 is more resistive than C2. The resistivity model has then been compared to piezometric measurements acquired as part of previous hydrological studies. The karstic drainage appears to be developed within C1 chalk deposit and most of the piezometric domes seem to be associated to intermediate resistivity zones in C1, interpreted as weathered. According to the results obtained from this study, we were able to suggest a geological framework for the development of Courtenay karstic system.

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