Application of Electrical Resistivity Tomography in Archaeology: A Numerical Modeling Study Using COMSOL Software

Subject Areas : Historical Archaeology

Anita Akhgar ¹ , Mahyar Radak ²

1 - MA in Archeology, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Mazandaran University, Babolsar.
2 - PhD Candidate in Optics and Lasers, Faculty of Physics, Mazandaran University, Babolsar.

Received: 2025-05-15 Accepted : 2025-07-25 Published : 2025-08-22

Keywords: Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), subsurface imaging, resistivity imaging, geophysics.,

Abstract :

Archaeology, as an interdisciplinary science, continually seeks innovative methods for accurate and non-invasive subsurface exploration. Among the emerging and highly effective techniques in this field is Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), which utilizes variations in subsurface electrical resistivity to detect buried structures, graves, infrastructure, and other cultural remains. This paper focuses on the archaeological application of ERT by conducting a numerical analysis using the advanced simulation capabilities of COMSOL Multiphysics software. Within the framework of this study, a three-dimensional cylindrical model with a diameter of 40 meters and a height of 20 meters was developed, with 25 electrodes linearly arranged on the surface. The numerical simulation enabled detailed examination of electric potential distribution and subsurface resistivity, and the model’s accuracy was validated by comparison with analytical solutions in a homogeneous medium. Furthermore, the study analyzed the effects of electrode configuration, spacing, and the physical properties of subsurface materials on the imaging results. The findings demonstrate that integrating ERT with numerical simulation provides an effective, non-destructive, and precise approach for identifying archaeological features, offering a scientifically robust and sustainable alternative to traditional excavation methods.

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