EM31 SURVEY TO LOCATE BURIED WASTE & LANDFILL CELLS
Conducting an electromagnetic (EM) survey using an EM31 conductivity meter is a fast and cost- effective
method for locating buried waste and landfill cells. The EM31 instrument has an investigating depth interval
of 0 to 17 feet and simultaneously records apparent ground conductivity and metal detection data.  In many
instances, an EM31 survey can locate areas containing buried waste and delineate leachate plumes that
may be emanating from the buried waste or landfill cell.

The EM31 metal detection results shown above delineates the perimeter of buried waste across a four
acre site. The higher values shown in red along the northern edge of the survey area is in response to
higher concentrations of buried waste.  Ground penetrating radar surveys across an area of interest will
also improve the accuracy of the EM31 results in delineating the perimeter of buried waste.
METALLIC
WASTE
NONMETALLIC
WASTE
EM31
INTERPRETATION
EM31 INPHASE
(METAL DETECTION)
EM31
CONDUCTIVITY
P.O. BOX 16265                                    Greensboro, North Carolina 27416-0265                             Office: (336) 286-9718
Mark J. Denil, P.G.                                                 denilm@bellsouth.net                                                 Cell: (336) 339-8390