A generalized iterative back-projection algorithm for 2-D reconstruction of resistivity data: application to data-sets from archaeological sites

P. TSOURLOS¹, J. E. SZYMANSKI ² and G. N. TSOKAS ¹

¹Department of Geophysics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54006 Thessaloniki, Greece.

²Dept. of Electronics, University of York, Heslington, York Y01 5DD, U.K.

(Received 1 January 2005; accepted 21 March 2005)

Abstract: In this work a generalized iterative back-projection algorithm for the 2-D reconstruction of resistivity data is proposed. The need for such an algorithm derives from the analysis of the limitations of the existing approximate algorithms. Further, it can reconstruct data from any array as well as from unconventional electrode arrangements. The merits and limitations of the algorithm are discussed and examples of its performance with synthetic data are given. Extensive tests of the algorithm with real data obtained from archaeological sites are presented as well. Despite its inherent limitations the algorithm proved to be reliable and noise insensitive and produced good quality reconstructions.