Identification of Natural Asphalt (Asbuton) Using the Electrical Resistivity Tomography Method Budy Santoso (a*), Bambang Wijatmoko (a)
a) Department of Geophysics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran
Jl. Ir. Soekarno Km.21, Jatinangor 45360, Sumedang, Indonesia
*santoso[at]unpad.ac.id
Abstract
The deterioration of main roads in Indonesia is often attributed to the poor performance of petroleum-based asphalt under extreme temperatures, which can reach up to 50 C in tropical environments. This type of asphalt tends to deform or peel under such conditions, particularly during peak daytime hours. In response to this issue, Buton natural asphalt (AsButon), sourced from Buton Island, presents a viable alternative due to its superior thermal resistance, maintaining structural integrity at temperatures up to 60 C. To optimize the utilization of AsButon, a comprehensive exploration and resource inventory is required. Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), a widely used geophysical method for shallow subsurface investigations, is proposed for delineating AsButon deposits. AsButon demonstrates a distinct resistivity signature lower than surrounding lithologies such as limestone and sandstone, yet higher than clay making it a suitable target for ERT based detection. Accordingly, ERT offers a non-invasive, efficient, and reliable approach for detecting and characterizing AsButon deposits, contributing to the sustainable development and exploitation of natural asphalt resources in Indonesia.
