Advancing resistivity-chargeability modeling for complex subsurface characterization using machine learning and deep learning

Abstract

Subsurface lithological heterogeneity presents challenges for traditional geophysical methods, particularly in resolving nonlinear electrical resistivity and induced polarization (IP) relationships. This study introduces a data-driven machine learning and deep learning (ML/DL) framework for predicting 2D IP chargeability models from resistivity, depth, and station distance, reducing reliance on field IP surveys. The framework integrates ensemble regressors with a one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D CNN) enhanced by global average pooling. Among the tested models, CatBoost achieved the highest prediction accuracy (R^2 = 0.942 training, 0.945 testing), closely followed by random forest, while the stacked ML/DL ensemble further improved performance, particularly for complex resistivity-IP behaviors. Overall accuracy ranged from R^2 = 0.882 to 0.947 with RMSE < 0.04. Integration with k-means clustering enhanced lithological discrimination, effectively delineating sandy silt, silty sand, and weathered granite influenced by saturation, clay content, and fracturing. This scalable approach provides a rapid solution for subsurface modeling in exploration, geotechnical, and environmental applications.