ALBERT

Notizen: Any set of isotropic layers is equivalent, in the long wavelength limit, to a unique transversely isotropic (TI) layer; to find the elastic moduli of that layer is a solved problem. The converse problem is to find a set of isotropic layers equivalent to a given TI media. Here, explicit necessary and sufficient conditions on the TI stiffness moduli for the existence of an equivalent set of isotropic layers are found by construction of a minimal decomposition consisting of either two or three isotropic constituent layers. When only two constituents are required, their elastic properties are uniquely determined. When three constituents are required, two have the same Poisson's ratio and the same thickness fraction, and even then there is a one-parameter family of satisfactory minimal decompositions. The linear slip model for fractured rock (aligned fractures in an isotropic background) yields a restricted range of transverse isotropy dependent on only four independent parameters. If the ratio of the normal to tangential fracture compliance is small enough, the medium is equivalent to thin isotropic layering and in general its minimal decomposition consists of three constituents.

Notizen: Information on the mass and the spatial location of an arbitrary source body can be obtained by performing suitable integrations of 3D gravity and magnetic data along an infinite straight line. No assumptions on the density/magnetization distribution or the shape and location of the source are required.For an oblique borehole, a relationship between the lower limit of the source mass and the distance to the body is obtained. The mass contrast and the magnetic moment of the source can also be estimated.For a vertical borehole, both gravity and vertical magnetic component anomalies have equal areas to the left and right of the depth axis.The particular case of a horizontal gallery not intersecting the body is also studied. If the source is intersected, a lower limit is estimated for the maximum thickness of the body along the gallery. Information on the vertical coordinate of the centre of mass of the source can also be obtained.Numerical tests with synthetic gravity data support the theoretical results.

Notizen: Refraction seismics with the shotpoints and the hydrophone cable on the sea-bottom, have become the standard geophysical method for investigating rock quality before constructing offshore tunnels in Norway. In connection with the construction of a sub-sea tunnel by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, research work was carried out to compare two low-velocity zones, indicated by refraction seismics with other methods. A special resistivity cable for pole-dipole measurements on the sea-floor, with 10 m between the electrodes, was constructed. A 200 m long profile, crossing the two low-velocity zones, was measured with all combinations of electrode distances. The two zones were detected as low-resistivity zones. A special data processing technique to enhance the anomalies is described. Resistivity soundings in a seawater environment to detect fracture zones in the bedrock underneath the bottom sediments, are discussed. It is concluded that severely fractured zones, which may cause difficulties for the tunnel construction, can be detected both with sea-surface and sea-floor arrays using long electrode spacings.

Notizen: In order to understand various aspects of radar wave propagation, a survey of electromagnetic wave behaviour relative to the geological characteristics of the formations prospected was undertaken. The sites chosen for the tests were a granite quarry and an underground schist working. By investigating an electrically resistive isotropic site and a conductive anisotropic site, it was demonstrated that non-conventional use of a radar system (antennae raised, various orientations of the transmitter/receiver, etc.) could improve data quality, and could allow information other than reflector depth to be collected (volume scattering intensity, isotropy, etc.). By studying wave propagation velocities, we underlined the difficulties encountered in establishing a velocity versus depth law, despite recourse to seismic data processing, such as NMO corrections. The results of field experiments, complemented by laboratory measurements of dielectric permittivities, clearly showed anisotropy effects: in the case of a path that is perpendicular to the schistosity plane, an electromagnetic wave propagates more slowly and is more attenuated than a wave parallel to the schistosity plane.

Notizen: A 2D numerical finite-difference algorithm accounting for surface topography is presented. Higher-order, dispersion-bounded, cost-optimized finite-difference operators are used in the interior of the numerical grid, while non-reflecting absorbing boundary conditions are used along the edges. Transformation from a curved to a rectangular grid achieves the modelling of the surface topography. We use free-surface boundary conditions along the surface. In order to obtain complete modelling of the effects of wave propagation, it is important to account for the surface topography, otherwise near-surface effects, such as scattering, are not modelled adequately. Even if other properties of the medium, for instance randomization, can improve numerical simulations, inclusion of the surface topography makes them more realistic.

Notizen: True-amplitude (TA) migration, which is a Kirchhoff-type modified weighted diffraction stack, recovers (possibly) complex angle-dependent reflection coefficients which are important for amplitude-versus-offset (AVO) inversion. The method can be implemented using existing prestack or post-stack Kirchhoff migration and fast Green's function computation programs. Here, it is applied to synthetic single-shot and constant-offset seismic data that include post-critical reflections (complex reflection coefficients) and caustics. Comparisons of the amplitudes of the TA migration image with theoretical reflection coefficients show that the (possibly complex) angle-dependent reflection coefficients are correctly estimated.

Notizen: The Fourier pseudospectral method has been widely accepted for seismic forward modelling because of its high accuracy compared to other numerical techniques. Conventionally, the modelling is performed on Cartesian grids. This means that curved interfaces are represented in a ‘staircase fashion‘causing spurious diffractions. It is the aim of this work to eliminate these non-physical diffractions by using curved grids that generally follow the interfaces.A further advantage of using curved grids is that the local grid density can be adjusted according to the velocity of the individual layers, i.e. the overall grid density is not restricted by the lowest velocity in the subsurface. This means that considerable savings in computer storage can be obtained and thus larger computational models can be handled.One of the major problems in using the curved grid approach has been the generation of a suitable grid that fits all the interfaces. However, as a new approach, we adopt techniques originally developed for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) applications. This allows us to put the curved grid technique into a general framework, enabling the grid to follow all interfaces. In principle, a separate grid is generated for each geological layer, patching the grid lines across the interfaces to obtain a globally continuous grid (the so-called multiblock strategy).The curved grid is taken to constitute a generalised curvilinear coordinate system, where each grid line corresponds to a constant value of one of the curvilinear coordinates. That means that the forward modelling equations have to be written in curvilinear coordinates, resulting in additional terms in the equations. However, the subsurface geometry is much simpler in the curvilinear space.The advantages of the curved grid technique are demonstrated for the 2D acoustic wave equation. This includes a verification of the method against an analytic reference solution for wedge diffraction and a comparison with the pseudospectral method on Cartesian grids. The results demonstrate that high accuracies are obtained with few grid points and without extra computational costs as compared with Cartesian methods.

Notizen: Furness, P. 1993. Gradient Array Profiles over thin resistive veins. Geophysical Prospecting41, 113–130.Gradient array geoelectric surveys are commonly used to explore for buried sheet-like targets. It is demonstrated that under certain circumstances the responses of such features can become practically equivalent for a range of models differing considerably in resistivity and thickness. This is the dual of the familiar equivalence phenomenon associated with thin beds in geoelectric sounding operations. Hence the geoelectric response profiles over thin dipping resistive veins are conveniently studied by considering equivalent forms with vanishing thickness and infinite resistivity but with the same resistivity-thickness product. The effects of varying the dip, depth of burial, depth extent and resistivity–thickness product of such features on the gradient array response profiles are investigated by means of a series of numerical experiments. These demonstrate several effects of significance to survey design and data interpretation.In particular it is found that while the resistivity–thickness product influences the amplitude of the response profiles it has little effect on their form. A similar behaviour is found to be exhibited by veins with extended depth extent when the dip is varied.A complete quantitative interpretation of gradient array profiles over thin dipping resistive veins is thus only possible for veins of limited depth extent. For veins with an extended depth dimension, the data is ambiguous (in a practical sense) in terms of the dip and the resistivity–thickness product. Here, the interpretation can only be expected to deduce the horizontal and vertical locations of the vein apex.

Notizen: When a seismic signal propagates through a finely layered medium, there is anisotropy if the wavelengths are long enough compared to the layer thicknesses. It is well known that in this situation, the medium is equivalent to a transversely isotropic material. In addition to anisotropy, the layers may show intrinsic anelastic behaviour. Under these circumstances, the layered medium exhibits Q anisotropy and anisotropic velocity dispersion.The present work investigates the anelastic effect in the long-wavelength approximation. Backus's theory and the standard linear solid rheology are used as models to obtain the directional properties of anelasticity corresponding to the quasi-compressional mode qP, the quasi-shear mode qSV, and the pure shear mode SH, respectively. The medium is described by a complex and frequency-dependent stiffness matrix. The complex and phase velocities for homogeneous viscoelastic waves are calculated from the Christoffel equation, while the wave-fronts (energy velocities) and quality factor surfaces are obtained from energy considerations by invoking Poynting's theorem.We consider two-constituent stationary layered media, and study the wave characteristics for different material compositions and proportions. Analyses on sequences of sandstone-limestone and shale-limestone with different degrees of anisotropy indicate that the quality factors of the shear modes are more anisotropic than the corresponding phase velocities, cusps of the qSV mode are more pronounced for low frequencies and midrange proportions, and in general, attenuation is higher in the direction perpendicular to layering or close to it, provided that the material with lower velocity is the more dissipative. A numerical simulation experiment verifies the attenuation properties of finely layered media through comparison of elastic and anelastic snapshots.

Notizen: A statistical technique, based on the concept of a 1D energy density spectrum of the observed gravity field, has been used to compute ensemble average depths to various horizons containing causative sources of random geometric shape, size, density, etc. The plot of the logarithm of the energy of the observed Bouguer anomaly versus the angular frequency can be approximated, over a certain frequency band, by a linear segment whose slope is related to an average ensemble depth around which a random distribution of numerous anomalous sources exists. Suitable matched filters, based on the computed values of intercepts and slopes of several linear segments approximating the spectrum, have been used to deconvolve the gravity effects associated with the causative sources, occurring around their respective mean depths. The individual deconvolved gravity effects thus separated out have been modelled using the sin x/x method by assuming a fluctuating interface between two formations.The applicability of the present method has been assessed using two observed Bouguer anomaly profiles: one from Ujjain to Mahan, and the other from Jhansi to Mandla where Deep Seismic Sounding (DSS) results are available. The proposed geological crustal models along these two profiles exhibit reasonably good agreement with those obtained from DSS results. A geologically plausible model of the crust in a virgin region has been presented along a Bouguer anomaly profile from Jaipur to Raipur.The following main conclusions have been drawn from the present analysis: (1) The depths to the Moho and Archaean basement interfaces fluctuate between 33.2 and 36.8 km and between 4.6 and 7.0 km respectively. (2) The Narmada-Son Lineament (NSL) does not coincide exactly with the Moho upwarp beneath it. However, this offset is greater in the eastern part of the NSL rather than in the western part. (3) The development of the Satpura horst structure is due to a rise in the Moho interface in a compressional regime. (4) The intrabasement feature (depth from 5 to 12 km) represents a hybrid massif possibly formed due to an admixture of sialic and simatic crust under a tensional regime in the Ujjain-Mahan section.

Notizen: The paper by Li and Oldenburg (1991) gives an important insight into d.c. charge accumulation problems. Nevertheless, their derivation concerning the role of the permittivity of the medium is not as straightforward as it could be. Another question, worth discussing, is the problem of double layers, which is missing from the authors’ paper.

Notizen: Some factors affecting the resolution and accuracy of resistivity tomography are examined using numerical simulation. The inversion method used is based on smoothness-constrained least-squares and finite-element methods. An appropriate block discretization is obtained by dividing the target region into square blocks of size equal to half the minimum electrode spacing. While the effect of the damping factor on the resolution is significant, the resolution is not very sensitive to Gaussian noise as long as the damping factor is properly chosen, according to the noise level. The issue of choosing an optimum electrode array should be considered at the planning stage of a survey.When the instrumental accuracy is high, the dipole-dipole array is more suitable for resolving complex structures than the pole-pole array. The pole-dipole array gives somewhat less resolution than the dipole-dipole array but yields greater signal strength; thus, the pole-dipole array may be a good compromise between resolution and signal strength. The effect of an inhomogeneity located outside the target region may be very small if block discretization is done so as to represent the resistivity variations in both the target and outside regions.

Notizen: Elastic redatuming can be carried out before or after decomposition of the multicomponent data into independent PP, PS, SP, and SS responses. We argue that from a practical point of view, elastic redatuming is preferably applied after decomposition. We review forward and inverse extrapolation of decomposed P- and S-wavefields. We use the forward extrapolation operators to derive a model of discrete multicomponent seismic data. This forward model is fully described in terms of matrix manipulations.By applying these matrix manipulations in reverse order we arrive at an elastic processing scheme for multicomponent data in which elastic redatuming plays an essential role. Finally, we illustrate elastic redatuming with a controlled 2D example, consisting of simulated multicomponent seismic data.

Notizen: The dynamic response characterizing the induced-polarization (IP) phenomenon is modelled by a non-linear diffusion equation (Burger's equation) supplemented by relevant initial and boundary values. The analysis of the model yields a voltage step response and an impedance curve in the frequency domain which agree qualitatively with experimental measurements. Curve fits based on the model have been made in the case of electrochemical cell measurements. The diffusion coefficients estimated by means of these curves are of the same order of magnitude as those calculated using experimental measurements. The normalized transient with these diffusion coefficients agrees with observations, but probably has a shorter discharge time. We have also carried out a comparison with predictions obtained from a linear, finite diffusion layer model, thus showing that for most practical situations the nonlinear term modelling the migration effect can be neglected.

Notizen: There is a general lack of awareness among ‘lay’ professionals (geophysicists included) regarding the limitations in the use of least-squares. Using a simple numerical model under simulated conditions of observational errors, the performance of least-squares and other goodness-of-fit criteria under various error conditions are investigated. The results are presented in a simplified manner that can be readily understood by the lay earth scientist. It is shown that the use of least-squares is, strictly, only valid either when the errors pertain to a normal probability distribution or under certain fortuitous conditions. The correct power to use (e.g. square, cube, square root, etc.) depends on the form of error distribution. In many fairly typical practical situations, least-squares is one of the worst criteria to use. In such cases, data treatment, ‘robust statistics’ or similar processes provide an alternative approach.

Notizen: The borehole radar system, RAMAC, developed within the framework of the International Stripa Project, can be used in three different measuring modes; single-hole reflection, cross-hole reflection and cross-hole tomography. The reflection modes basically provide geometrical data on features located at some distance from the borehole. In addition the strength of the reflections indicate the contrast in electrical properties. Single-hole reflection data are cylindrically symmetrical with respect to the borehole, which means that a unique fracture orientation cannot be obtained. A method has been devised where absolute orientation of fracture zones is obtained by combining single-hole reflection data from adjacent holes. Similar methods for the analysis of cross-hole reflection data have also been developed and found to be efficient. The radar operates in the frequency range 20--60 MHz which gives a resolution of 1–3 m in crystalline rock. The investigation range obtained in the Stripa granite is approximately 100 m in the single-hole mode and 200--300 m in the cross-hole mode.Variations in the arrival time and amplitude of the direct wave between transmitter and receiver have been used for cross-hole tomographic imaging to yield maps of radar velocity and attenuation. The cross-hole measurement configuration coupled with tomographic inversion has less resolution than the reflection methods but provides better quantitative estimates of the values of measured properties.The analysis of the radar data has provided a consistent description of the fracture zones at the Stripa Cross-hole site in agreement with both geological and geophysical observations. Comparison of the radar results with seismic cross-hole data showed excellent agreement with respect to shape and location of the fracture zones in space. Comparison with hydraulic data shows that the features identified by radar are of hydrogeological significance.

Notizen: The performances of least-squares orthogonal polynomial and relaxation techniques in the separation of regional and residual anomalies have been evaluated with a view to minimizing personal biasing. The advantage of orthogonal over nonorthogonal polynomials is their ability to estimate an optimum order of polynomial to represent the predominant regional trend in the data using an approximate 2D difference table, the Z-matrix. The correlation coefficients between residuals of two consecutive orders also give the same result. In the relaxation technique, a linear trend is assumed within each cell of the mesh of a square grid. A set of such linear segments can approximate any complicated regional trend. The performances of these two techniques have been evaluated using simulated gravity anomalies produced by 2D and 3D complex regional structures superimposed on residual fields due to cylinders and prismatic bodies, as well as three field examples taken from the published literature. The analyses have revealed that the relaxation technique produces excellent results when an optimum polynomial order rather than an arbitrary fixed one is used for computing the boundary conditions along the periphery of the map. Analyses have revealed that such boundary conditions provide minimum distortion near the two ends of the profile.

Notizen: The Fourier spectral method and high-order differencing have both been shown to be very accurate in computing spatial derivatives of the acoustic wave equation, requiring only two and three gridpoints per shortest wavelength respectively. In some cases, however, there is a lack of flexibility as both methods use a uniform grid. If these methods are applied to structures with high vertical velocity contrasts, very often most of the model is oversampled. If a complicated interface has to be covered by a fine grid for exact representation, both methods become less attractive as the homogeneous regions are sampled more finely than necessary.In order avoid this limitation we present a differencing scheme in which the grid spacings can be extended or reduced by any integer factor at a given depth. This scheme adds more flexibility and efficiency to the acoustic modelling as the grid spacings can be changed according to the material properties and the model geometry. The time integration is carried out by the rapid expansion method. The spatial derivatives are computed using either the Fourier method or a high-order finite-difference operator in the x-direction and a modified high-order finite-difference operator in the z-direction. This combination leads to a very accurate and efficient modelling scheme. The only additional computation required is the interpolation of the pressure in a strip of the computational mesh where the grid spacing changes.

Notizen: Gravity and magnetic data have been inverted to obtain the continuous lower surface of a 2.5 dimensional sedimentary basin. The non-linear problem is linearized and a solution is calculated through a recursive process until the predicted data matches the observed data. An average model is then calculated and a resolution analysis shows which features are uniquely determined. The results of individual inversion indicate that a final solution is initial model dependent but the average models are independent of the initial model except at the margins. The average model for the magnetic solutions have uniformly smaller spreads than the gravity solutions.The algorithms were applied to data from the Sanford Basin in North Carolina. The results indicate that the basin is asymmetrical in shape with a maximum depth of 3.2 km. Comparing these results with those obtained from a generalized linear inverse (GLI) algorithm indicate that the higher-frequency features determined from the GLI algorithm are not resolved.

Notizen: Shear-wave velocity logs are useful for various seismic interpretation applications, including bright spot analyses, amplitude-versus-offset analyses and multicomponent seismic interpretations. Measured shear-wave velocity logs are, however, often unavailable.We developed a general method to predict shear-wave velocity in porous rocks. If reliable compressional-wave velocity, lithology, porosity and water saturation data are available, the precision and accuracy of shear-wave velocity prediction are 9% and 3%, respectively. The success of our method depends on: (1) robust relationships between compressional- and shear-wave velocities for water-saturated, pure, porous lithologies; (2) nearly linear mixing laws for solid rock constituents; (3) first-order applicability of the Biot–Gassmann theory to real rocks.We verified these concepts with laboratory measurements and full waveform sonic logs. Shear-wave velocities estimated by our method can improve formation evaluation. Our method has been successfully tested with data from several locations.

Notizen: Six known methods of seismic phase unwrapping (or phase restoration) are compared. All the methods tested unwrap the phase satisfactorily if the initial function is a simple theoretical wavelet. None of the methods restore the phase of a synthetic trace exactly.An initial validity test of the phase-unwrapping method is that the sum of the restored wavelet phase spectrum and the restored pulse-trace phase spectrum (assuming the convolutional model for the seismic trace) must be equal to the restored phase spectrum of the synthetic trace. Results show that none of the tested methods satisfy this test. Quantitative estimation of the phase-unwrapping accuracy by correlation analysis of the phase deconvolution results separated these methods, according to their efficiency, into three groups. The first group consists of methods using a priori wavelet information. These methods make the wavelet phase estimation more effective than the minimum-phase approach, if the wavelet is non-minimum-phase. The second group consists of methods using the phase increment Δø(Δω) between two adjacent frequencies. These methods help to decrease the time shift of the initial synthetic trace relative to the model of the medium. At the same time they degrade the trace correlation with the medium model. The third group consists of methods using an integration of the phase derivative. These methods do not lead to any improvement of the initial seismic trace.The main problem in the phase unwrapping of a seismic trace is the random character of the pulse trace. For this reason methods based on an analysis of the value of Δø(Δω) only, or using an adaptive approach (i.e. as Δω decreases) are not effective. In addition, methods based on integration of the phase derivative are unreliable, due to errors in numerical integration and differentiation.

Notizen: Propagation in the plane of mirror symmetry of a monoclinic medium, with displacement normal to the plane, is the most general circumstance in anisotropic media for which pure shear-wave propagation can occur at all angles. Because the pure shear mode is uncoupled from the other two modes, its slowness surface in the plane is an ellipse. When the mirror symmetry plane is vertical the pure shear waves in this plane are SH waves and the elliptical SH sheet of the slowness surface is, in general, tilted with respect to the vertical axis. Consider a half-space of such a monoclinic medium, called medium M, overlain by a half-space of isotropic medium I with plane SH waves incident on medium M propagating in the vertical symmetry plane of M. Contrary to the appearance of a lack of symmetry about the vertical axis due to the tilt of the SH-wave slowness ellipse, the reflection and transmission coefficients are symmetrical functions of the angle of incidence, and further, there exists an isotropic medium E with uniquely determined density and shear speed which gives exactly the same reflection and transmission coefficients underlying medium J as does monoclinic medium M. This means that the underlying monoclinic medium M can be replaced by isotropic medium E without changing the reflection and transmission coefficients for all values of the angle of incidence. Thus no set of SH seismic experiments performed in the isotropic medium in the symmetry plane of the underlying half-space can reveal anything about the monoclinic anisotropy of that underlying half-space. Moreover, even when the underlying monoclinic half-space is stratified, there exists a stratified isotropic half-space that gives the identical reflection coefficient as the stratified monoclinic half-space for all angles of incidence and all frequencies.

Notizen: For over 20 years, powerful VLF transmitters have been used as electromagnetic sources for subsurface investigations in mining exploration. Measurements initially concerned the vertical component of the magnetic field or the inclination of the field and were later extended to measurement of the horizontal electric field in the direction of the transmitter, to determine the resistivity of the terrain. Measurement of the electric field is usually performed with electric lines, grounded or not, with lengths of at least 5 m.This paper presents the concept of a VLF resistivity meter with a very short electric sensor (1 m) and the results obtained with it. This technique improves the measurement of the electric field, which is in principle a point value. It also permits a higher spatial sampling rate and, by closely linking the electric sensor with the magnetic sensor on a lightweight mount, makes it possible for the instrument to be used by a single operator.In addition, transformation of the electric field data, analogous to reduction to the pole in magnetism, is proposed to correct the horizontal deformation of the anomalies created by polarization of the primary field. Comparison with direct current electrical measurements shows highly satisfactory correlations. This transformation, validated for VLF, can be extended to any electrical or electromagnetic method using a uniform primary field, i.e. gradient array in direct current or low-frequency magnetotellurics. We call this verticalization of the electric field.Resistivity measurements and mapping using the VLF frequency range can be applied not only to mining but also to a wide range of shallow geophysical studies (hydrology, civil engineering, etc.) and are not limited to problems concerning the location of conductive targets

Notizen: In recent years, geophysical methods (shallow seismic, electromagnetic, resistivity, ground penetrating radar) have been increasingly applied to overburden investigations. Their effectiveness has been found to depend significantly on local geological conditions. Compared with advanced seismic techniques, EM methods are faster and hence more cost-effective, but they have not been considered sufficiently accurate.Analysis is carried out of data obtained with the multifrequency horizontal-loop method (HLEM) in northeastern Ontario, where the overburden consists of Quaternary glacial and glaciolacustrine sediments. Surveying along 1-6 km long profiles permitted recognition of bedrock inhomogeneities and selection of sites suitable for HLEM data interpretation using the layered model. Phasor diagrams and computer inversion based on the ridge regression technique were used to interpret HLEM soundings obtained at eight frequencies. Interpreted layer resistivities and thicknesses were correlated with the results of Rotasonic drilling at 70 sites. Relatively accurate estimates of overburden thickness (within 10%) could be obtained in about 80% of the cases. Nine examples of HLEM soundings are given and discussed: three each of one-, two- and three-layer situations. An appropriate interpretation model cannot be selected simply by minimizing the rms error or by analysing the parameter resolution matrix. Frequently, the most effective way of evaluating a solution is to consider whether resistivity values determined by inversion fit any of the ranges determined by statistical analyses of sediment resistivities. A previously published study of electrical properties of Quaternary sediments indicated that resistivities of clay, till and sand are stable within a fairly large area, such as the one under investigation. While the application of HLEM methods to mapping of Quaternary sediments can be considered a success, interpretation of EM data in regions covered by glacial sediments is more difficult than in weathered terrains, where near-surface layering is more predictable. The problem of equivalence causes non-uniqueness in interpretation. Thickness equivalence, which results in poor resistivity estimates, was found to affect areas convered by sand and till. Conductance equivalence caused poor resolution of thickness and resistivity for thin clay layers (less than 10 m).

Notizen: In a layered earth the seismic reflection response for incidence at non-normal angles is dependent upon the elastic constants and thicknesses of the layers.The possibility is investigated of increasing the diagnostic value of seismic data by using the phase and the frequency v. offset information in addition to that from the amplitude v. offset.The combined amplitude, phase and frequency versus offset (APF.VO) analysis is carried out through the computation of amplitude, phase and frequency indicators based on the analytical description of seismic traces.Both synthetic and actual data are examined.From the analyses of synthetic seismograms, it is shown that modifying the velocities and thicknesses of a given target layer, by introducing different pore fluids or lithological conditions, produces changes in APF.VO plots. In particular, the effects related to interference among reflections and to critical angle phenomena are clearly detected by both the phase and amplitude v. offset indicators in terms of phase shifts and amplitude variations. The frequency indicator is mainly controlled by the spectrum of the propagating wavelet.Since the basic synthetic model is derived from an existing well, located close to a seismic line, some actual CDP gathers are analysed. Features related to interference and critical angle are again evident in the APF.VO plots of the actual data. The amplitude indicator appears to be reasonably stable while the phase shows a higher spatial variability and a stronger sensitivity to noise.Differential interference with offset often occurs in actual layered structures and distorts seismic data significantly. Therefore AVO interpretation and AVO inversion procedures must also tackle this problem. Knowledge of phase and frequency variations v. offset may help classical AVO interpretation and yield further information for use in inversion techniques.

Notizen: The principles of imaging, for example that of prestack migration, can be applied to cross-borehole seismic geometry just as they can to surface seismic configurations. However, when using actual cross-borehole data, a number of difficulties arise that are rarely or never encountered in imaging surface seismic data: discontinuities may reflect or diffract incident seismic waves in any direction. If a discontinuity lies between the lines of sources and receivers, forward-scattered, or interwell, events may be recorded. If a discontinuity lies outside the interwell region, back-scattered, or extra-well, events may be recorded. Many angles of incidence are possible, and all possible reflected modes (P–P, P–S, S–P and S–S) are present, frequently in nearly equal proportions. The planes of the reflectors dip from 0 to ±90°.In order to deal with these complexities we first separate propagation modes at the receiver borehole using both polarization and velocity. Next we compensate for phase distortion due to dispersion. Finally, and most importantly, we migrate or image the data in cross-borehole common-source gathers. To do this, a finite-difference solution to the 2D scalar wave equation, using reverse time, for an arbitrary distribution of velocities, is used to project the separated, reflected-diffracted wavefield back into the medium.There are four reflection modes (P–P, P–S, S–P and S–S), so we can apply four different imaging conditions. The zones outside the boreholes as well as inside the boreholes can be imaged with these conditions.These operations are repeated for each common-source gather: each common-source gather generates four partial images in each image space. This multiplicity of partial images can be stacked in various combinations to yield a final image of the subsurface.Our experiments using solid (not fluid) physical models indicate that when these procedures are correctly applied, high quality cross-borehole images can be obtained. These images appear with great clarity even though some of the weak diffractions causing diffraction images may be almost totally obscured by other high-amplitude events on the raw data.

Notizen: Among the approaches generally used to measure attenuation from field data, the study of the first pulse broadening appears to be one of the more promising methods to estimate the quality factor Q for different geological formations including soils. Using a numerical scheme, we studied the evolution of the pulse shape in the neighbourhood of the source in order to establish the limits of the method. It was found that the pulse width variations depend strongly upon source depth. At short distances from the source, the pulse shape is controlled mainly by the near-field terms and/or the onset of surface waves. The investigations proved that the pulse-broadening method is reliable for distances greater than about 1.2 wavelengths. From numerical experiments, the maximum error in Q-determination is found to be 10% in the half-space case.

Notizen: When large quantities of seismic data are involved it is impossible to examine all gathers by eye for AVO anomalies. The standard approach is to compute, for each amplitude profile (at a specific time) on each gather, the intercept and gradient of a straight-line fit to seismic amplitudes. These intercepts and gradients are each plotted as a sort of seismic section - an intercept section, and a gradient section.Estimation of the intercept and gradient for a straight-line fit to each amplitude profile proceeds traditionally via least-squares. Two undesirable features can be hidden from the user by the fitting procedure, namely (i) the effect of outlying or uncharacteristic amplitudes on the intercept and gradient estimates, and (ii) complete breakdown of the straight-line model for the amplitudes, thus rendering meaningless the intercept and gradient estimates. It should be remembered that least-squares can always fit any sequence of numbers to any other sequence of numbers; checks are needed to show that the result is meaningful.It is shown that statistically robust estimation methods can greatly limit the damage done by outlying amplitudes, and that a simple test on the model, the runs-statistic, is capable of detecting breakdown of the straight-line assumption. It is demonstrated using two seismic data sets that these two techniques, used in tandem, facilitate much better quality control of AVO intercept and gradient calculations.

Notizen: Among resistivity methods, models containing two dipping discontinuity surfaces with a conductive medium between them have been considered in this study. The theoretical apparent resistivity curves obtained for such models were calculated using Alfano's integral equation for various dip angles of planes at different array distances from the contacts. The results obtained showed that it is possible to achieve the dip values of the discontinuities under particular conditions, but ambiguities cannot be ruled out.

Notizen: When an electric current is introduced to the earth, it sets up a distribution of charges both on and beneath the earth's surface. These charges give rise to the anomalous potential measured in the d. c. resistivity experiment. We investigate different aspects of charge accumulation and its fundamental role in d. c. experiments. The basic equations and boundary conditions for the d. c. problem are first presented with emphasis on the terms involving accumulated charges which occur wherever there is a non-zero component of electric field parallel to the gradient of conductivity. In the case of a polarizable medium, the polarization charges are also present due to the applied electric field, yet they do not change the final field distribution. We investigate the precise role of the permittivity of the medium. The charge buildup alters the electric fields and causes the refraction of current lines; this results in the well-known phenomenon of current channelling. We demonstrate this by using charge density to derive the refraction formula at a boundary. An integral equation for charge density is presented for whole-space models where the upper half-space is treated as an in-homogeneity with zero conductivity. The integral equation provides a tool with which the charge accumulation can be examined quantitatively and employed in the practical forward modelling. With the aid of this equation, we investigate the effect of accumulated charges on the earth's surface and show the equivalence between the half-space and whole-space formulations of the problem. Two analytic examples are presented to illustrate the charge accumulation and its role in the d. c. problem. We investigate the relationship between the solution for the potential via the image method and via the charge density. We show that the essence of the image method solution to the potential problem is to derive a set of fictitious sources which produce the same potential as does the true charge distribution. It follows that the image method is viable only when the conductivity structure is such that the effect of the accumulated charge can be represented by a set of point images. As numerical examples, we evaluate quantitatively the charge density on the earth's surface that arises because of topography and the charge density on a buried conductive prism. By these means, we demonstrate the use of the boundary element technique and charge density in d. c. forward modelling problems.

Notizen: Model-based inversion of seismic reflection data is a global optimization problem when prior information is sparse. We investigate the use of an efficient, global, stochastic optimization method, that of simulated annealing, for determining the two-way traveltimes and the reflection coefficients.We exploit the advantage of an ensemble approach to the inversion of full-scale target zones on 2D seismic sections.In our ensemble approach, several copies of the model-algorithm system are run in parallel. In this way, estimation of true ensemble statistics for the process is made possible, and improved annealing schedules can be produced.It is shown that the method can produce reliable results efficiently in the 2D case, even when prior information is sparse.

Notizen: It is well known that seismic inversion based on local model optimization methods, such as iterative use of linear optimization, may fail when prior information is sparse. Where the seismic events corresponding to reflectors of interest remain to be identified, a global optimization technique is required.We investigate the use of a global, stochastic optimization method, that of simulated annealing, to solve the seismic trace inversion problem, in which the two-way traveltimes and reflection coefficients are to be determined. The simulated annealing method is based on an analogy between the model-algorithm system and a statistical mechanical system. We exploit this analogy to produce improved annealing schedules. It is shown that even in cases of virtually no prior information about two-way traveltimes and reflection coefficients, the method is capable of producing reliable results.

Notizen: Until the present time the ‘ rock-coal-rock’ layer sequence and offsets in coal-seams in underground coal mines have been detected with the aid of seismic waves and geoelectric measurements. In order to determine the geometrical and petrophysical parameters of the coal-seam situation, the data recorded using seismic and geoelectric methods have been inverted independently. In consequence, the inversion of partially inaccurate data resulted in a certain degree of ambiguity. This paper presents the first results of a joint inversion scheme to process underground vertical seismic profiling data, geolectric resistivity and resistance data.The joint inversion algorithm makes use of the damped least-squares method and its weighted version to solve the linearized set of equations for the seismic and geolectric unknowns. In order to estimate the accuracy and reliability of the derived geometrical and petrophysical layer parameters, both a model covariance matrix and a correlation matrix are calculated. The weighted least-squares algorithm is based on the method of most frequent values (MFV). The weight factors depend on the difference between measured data and those calculated by an iteration process.The joint inversion algorithm is tested by means of synthetic data. Compared to the damped least-squares algorithm, the MFV inversion leads to smaller estimation errors as well as lower sensitivities due to the choice of the initial model. It is shown that, compared to an independent inversion, the correlation between the model parameters is definitely reduced, while the accuracy of the parameter estimation is appreciably increased by the joint inversion process. Thus the ambiguity is significantly reduced.Finally, the joint inversion algorithm using the MFV method is applied to underground field data. The model parameters can be derived with a sufficient degree of accuracy, even in the case of noisy data.

Notizen: An accurate estimate of the seismic wavelet on a seismic section is extremely important for interpretation of fine details on the section and for estimation of acoustic impedance. In the absence of well-control, the recognized best approach to wavelet estimation is to use the technique of multiple coherence analysis to estimate the coherent signal and its amplitude spectrum, and thence construct the seismic wavelet under the minimum-phase assumption.The construction of the minimum-phase wavelet is critically dependent on the decay of the spectrum at the low-frequency end. Traditional methods of cross-spectral estimation, such as frequency smoothing using a Papoulis window, suffer from substantial side-lobe leakage in the areas of the spectrum where there is a large change of power over a relatively small frequency range. The low-frequency end of the seismic spectrum (less than 4 Hz) decays rapidly to zero. Side-lobe leakage causes poor estimates of the low-frequency decay, resulting in degraded wavelet estimates.Thomson's multitaper method of cross-spectral estimation which suffers little from side-lobe leakage is applied here, and compared with the result of using frequency smoothing with the Papoulis window. The multitaper method seems much less prone to estimating spuriously high coherences at very low frequencies. The wavelet estimated by the multitaper approach from the data used here is equivalent to imposing a low-frequency roll-off of some 48 dB/oct (below 3.91 Hz) on the amplitude spectrum. Using Papoulis smoothing the equivalent roll-off is only about 36 dB/oct. Thus the multitaper method gives a low-frequency decay rate of the amplitude spectrum which is some 4 times greater than for Papoulis smoothing. It also gives more consistent results across the section. Furthermore, the wavelet obtained using the multi-taper method and seismic data only (with no reference to well data) has more attractive physical characteristics when compared with a wavelet extracted using well data, than does an estimate using traditional smoothing.

Notizen: The most diagnostic effect of anisotropy on shear waves is shear-wave splitting. This phenomenon creates a distinctive signature in the 3D particle motion. Methods to extract the effects of anisotropy from shear-wave data attempt to measure details of this motion. Many techniques have been published recently which process the shear waves in the time or frequency domain. Here we examine the way in which information on the interference effects between the split shear waves is contained within the frequency domain, and suggest some criteria which may be used in future processing algorithms. The time-delay between the split shear waves, and the polarization direction of the leading shear wave can be converted into easily measured features from analysis of the Fourier spectrum of the shear-wave signal on each component of motion. These features arise in the spectral interference patterns which are formed by the interaction between the two closely-spaced and similar waveforms. The interference patterns are interpreted for synthetic and observed seismogram data.

Notizen: Two different techniques for performing time-variable Wiener deconvolution are compared using stacked seismic data. The conventional technique involves the empirical division of the data into a number of gates and the determination of time-invariant deconvolution filters for each gate. In the second technique, the deconvolution filter is recomputed after each time increment from a fixed-length data gate sliding along the trace. This scheme has the advantage that no a priori segmentation of the data is needed.

Notizen: Seismic wave attenuation in porous rocks consists of intrinsic or anelastic attenuation (the lost energy is converted into heat due to interaction between the waves and the rocks) and the extrinsic or geometric attenuation (the energy is lost due to beam spreading, transmission loss and scattering). The first is of great importance because it can give additional information on the petrophysical properties of rocks (permeability, degree of saturation, type of saturant, etc.). The most difficult problem in attenuation measurements is estimating or eliminating extrinsic attenuation, so that the intrinsic attenuation can be obtained. To date, in laboratory attenuation measurements using wave propagation, several methods have been used. The difficulties vary with the method. The coupling effect and the geometric divergence or beam spreading are the major problems.Papadakis’ diffraction corrections have been used extensively by Winkler and Plona in their modified pulse-echo high-pressure attenuation measurements. These corrections are computed for homogeneous liquid media and their failure to fit data for solid material implies that these corrections must be used with caution, especially for high Q values.Three new methods for laboratory ultrasonic attenuation measurements are presented. The first is the ‘ultrasonic lens’ method for attenuation measurements at atmospheric pressure, in which an ultrasonic lens placed between transmitter and sample transforms the initially oblique incident beam into normal incidence so that the geometric divergence is eliminated. The second method is the ‘panoramic receiver’, in which the beam spreading can be eliminated by integrating the ultrasonic energy over a large area. The third method is called 'self-spectral ratio’ and is applicable for all pressure conditions. Attenuation is estimated by comparing two signals recorded on the same rock but with two slightly different thicknesses under the same pressure conditions. Hence the extrinsic attenuation for both thicknesses is approximately the same. A comparison between the self-spectral ratio method and that of Winkler and Plona demonstrates a very good agreement for a broad band of frequencies. Hence the Winkler-Plona technique and Papadakis’ diffraction corrections can be accepted as reliable in any future work.

Notizen: We present a method for estimating P- and S-velocities within defined layers (macromodel), using only kinematic properties (i.e. traveltimes) of the wavefield. The method does not require identification of mixed-mode events on prestack or post-stack data. After obtaining a Vp-depth model by coherency inversion, S-velocities are determined by coherency optimization along computed traveltime curves for mixed-mode events on prestack data. Since the method does not involve any dynamic wavefield computations, a simple ray-tracing algorithm is used to solve the forward problem. The simplicity of the scheme, together with the ability to apply it locally, makes it highly suitable for interactive use. Results of this method may be used to detect Poisson's ratio anomalies within or between layers and may serve as an initial model for more complicated elastic inversion algorithms.

Notizen: An integrated exploration study is presented to locate low-temperature geothermal reservoirs in the Honey Lake area of northern California. Regional studies to locate the geothermal resources included gravity, infra-red, water-temperature, and water-quality analyses. Five anomalies were mapped from resistivity surveys. Additional study of three anomalies by temperature-gradient and seismic methods was undertaken to define structure and potential of the geothermal resource. The gravity data show a graben structure in the area. Seismic reflection data indicate faults associated with surface-resistivity and temperature-gradient data. The data support the interpretation that the shallow reservoirs are replenished along the fault zones by deeply circulating heated meteoric waters.

Notizen: Depth conversion in the northern part of the U.K. Southern Gas Basin is complicated by the presence of Zechstein (Permian) salt swells and diapirs. In addition, the post-Zechstein (post-Permian) section displays large lateral velocity variations. The primary agents which control the velocity of this stratigraphic section are: (1) depth of burial, (2) lithological variation within individual formations, and (3) the effects of subsequent tectonic inversion. An integrated approach which combines well velocity, seismic velocity and seismic interpretation is required for accurate depth estimation.In 1988 Mobil and partners drilled an exploratory well in the northern part of the U.K. Southern Gas Basin. This well was located near the crest of a Zechstein salt diapir. Over 2000 m of Zechstein was encountered in the well. The Permian Rotliegendes objective was penetrated at a depth of over 3700 m.The initial delineation of the objective structure was based on the results of 3D map migration of the seismic time interpretation. Spatially-variant interval velocity functions were used to depth convert through five of the six mapped horizons. Both well and model-based seismic interval velocity analysis information was used to construct these functions.A moving-source well seismic survey was conducted. The survey was run in two critical directions. In conjunction with presurvey modelling, it was possible to confirm immediately the structural configuration as mapped to a distance of 7 km from the well. Post-survey 3D map migration and modelling was employed to further refine the structural interpretation. Although the question of stratigraphic anisotropy was considered in the evaluation of the long offset modelling, no evidence was found in the field data to support a significant effect.Finally, comparisons were made of: curved-ray versus straight-ray migration/modelling, midpoint-depth velocity versus (depth-dependant instantaneous velocity functions, and Hubral- versus Fermat-based map depth migration algorithms. Significant differences in the results were observed for structural dips exceeding 15o and/or offsets exceeding 6 km. Map depth migration algorithms which employed both curved rays and spatially-variant instantaneous velocity functions were found to best approximate the ‘true’ geological velocity field in the study area.

Notizen: Permeability is a second rank tensor relating flow rate to pressure gradient in a porous medium. If the permeability is a constant times the identity tensor the permeable medium is isotropic; otherwise it is anisotropic. A formalism is presented for the simple calculation of the permeability tensor of a heterogeneous layered system composed of interleaved thin layers of several permeable constituent porous media in the static limit. Corresponding to any cumulative thickness H of a constituent is an element consisting of scalar H and a matrix which is H times a hybrid matrix function of permeability. The calculation of the properties of a medium equivalent to the combination of permeable constituents may then be accomplished by simple addition of the corresponding scalar/matrix elements. Subtraction of an element removes a permeable constituent, providing the means to decompose a permeable medium into many possible sets of permeable constituents, all of which have the same flow properties. A set of layers of a constituent medium in the heterogeneous layered system with permeability of the order of 1/h as h→ 0, where h is that constituent's concentration, acts as a set of infinitely thin channels and is a model for a set of parallel cracks or fractures. Conversely, a set of layers of a given constituent with permeability of the order of h as h→ 0 acts as a set of parallel flow barriers and models a set of parallel, relatively impermeable, interfaces, such as shale stringers or some faults. Both sets of channels and sets of barriers are defined explicitly by scalar/matrix elements for which the scalar and three of the four sub-matrices vanish. Further, non-parallel sets of channels or barriers can be ‘added’ and 'subtracted’ from a background homogeneous anisotropic medium commutatively and associatively, but not non-parallel sets of channels and barriers reflecting the physical reality that fractures that penetrate barriers will give a different flow behaviour from barriers that block channels. This analysis of layered media, and the representations of the phenomena that can occur as the thickness of a constituent is allowed to approach zero, are applicable directly to layered heat conductors, layered electrostatic conductors and layered dielectrics.

Notizen: Ten methods for the computation of attenuation have been investigated, namely: amplitude decay, analytical signal, wavelet modelling, phase modelling, frequency modelling, rise-time, pulse amplitude, matching technique, spectral modelling and spectral ratio. In particular, we have studied the reliability of each of these methods in estimating correct values of Q using three synthetic VSP seismograms for plane P-waves with different noise contents.The investigations proved that no single method is generally superior. Rather, some methods are more suitable than others in specific situations depending on recording, noise or geology. The analytical signal method has been demonstrated to be superior if true amplitude recordings are available. Otherwise spectral modelling or, in the ‘ noise-free’ case the spectral ratio method, is optimal.Finally, two field VSPs in sediments are investigated. Only in the case of the highest quality VSP can significant information be deduced from the computed attenuation.

Notizen: The purpose of this paper is to derive relationships useful for the analysis of shallow transmission and reflection seismic data. Since the effects of absorption cause such data to be non-stationary, the derived results do not rely on frequency-domain representations being independent of the time origin. Rather, results are expressed in the z-domain and are suitable for implementation in the time domain. In order to give an unambiguous system of notation a classic approach to the problem of 1D wave propagation in a layered system is fully described. Absorption is included in a general but realistic way and the implications of representing it digitally are considered in detail. Computational efficiency is improved by grouping the layers in blocks of similar absorptive effect. The transmissivity and reflectivity of systems composed of such blocks are obtained and a dereverberation filter identified. The filter is described succinctly in terms of a non-linear recursion relationship. The sequences obtained by convolving the filter with the transmissivity and reflectivity are discussed in detail. The results are illustrated by nominally realistic synthetic examples computed in the time domain.

Notizen: A singular-value decomposition technique is presented for quantifying the information content of band-limited and offset-limited seismic reflection data for the case of plane-layered subsurface models. With the aid of this method, vertical resolution, tuning effects and ambiguities between different types of lithological parameters can be analysed simultaneously. The method is applied in a model study for quantifying the effects of offset-limitation and the presence of different wavetypes on the ability to discriminate different types of parameters.

Notizen: It is well known that there is a phase shift of π associated with the propagation of a seismic pulse through a focus. But this simple behaviour is true only if the two points at which the pulse is observed lie sufficiently far from the focus, one on either side. Near the focus matters are more complicated and the shape of the pulse may be severely distorted because of diffraction. To examine this problem we consider a pulse generated by a point source and focused by a spherical reflector. Using a general combined method of ray tracing and diffraction, we compute seismograms for receivers lying both inside and outside the focal region, and determine how the shape of the pulse changes on propagation through the focus. To assist the physical interpretation of the numerical results, we also present relevant exact and asymptotic results for comparison.

Notizen: Specific electrical resistivity of natural waters contains information on their genesis. The authors propose to conduct mass and regime observations of this parameter in river and stream beds.The electrical resistivities in streams flowing from under a glacier reveal details formed at the same time as the glacier. Observations in the beds of big rivers show a gradual increase in water salinity overlain by reductions by inflowing glacial waters.The diurnal and annual trend of changes in the electrical conductivity of water associated with the change in the balance of glacial and ground waters has been established near to glaciers.Resistivity observations help to locate discharge sites of sub-permafrost waters, for water.

Notizen: The VLF response of laterally inhomogeneous and anisotropic models is calculated numerically using the finite element method.Some results are presented for a slab model in terms both of the polarization parameters, i.e., the tilt angle and ellipticity of the magnetic polarization ellipse, and the amplitude ratio |Hz/Hx|.On the basis of both the ellipticity and the tilt angle, it is possible to discriminate between a poor conductor and a good one. The direction of the dip can be determined from the anomaly profiles of all diagnostic parameters. The effect of the conductive overburden is most noticeable on the ellipticity profile: one observes attenuation for a poor conductor and “negative attenuation” for a good conductor. The anomaly profiles for anisotropic cases are consistent with the ones of the isotropic cases.

Notizen: Master curves are presented for three-layer earth-sections, the electrical resistivity in the intermediate layer of which has a linear variation with depth. A new approach is proposed to interpret the sounding data with the help of RMS difference in apparent resistivity values.

Notizen: Basic Laterolog devices employ a measure-current focusing technique to provide well logs of formation resistivity that feature sharp vertical definition combined with a depth of investigation much improved over those of normals of comparable spacings.To develop the concept of measure-current focusing, a disk-electrode arrangement analogous to a guard-ring capacitor is considered first, leading finally to consideration of a real sonde in a cylindrical borehole. In the latter, auxiliary currents are adjusted to maintain substantially at zero the vertical potential gradients above and below the central measure-current electrode; this has the effect of focusing the measure-current beam.However, prediction of sonde responses on the basis of current patterns can in some cases be misleading. Indeed, for a given Laterolog array, one may use a (reciprocalmode) current pattern radically different from the one defined by the basic (direct-mode) measure-current focusing scheme and still obtain the same resistivity measurement. This feature is illustrated for Laterolog 3 by use of transfer impedances, and demonstrated for certain more general cases using the reciprocity theorem.Comparisons of Laterolog responses across typical thin beds, both non-invaded and invaded, with those of normal devices of a comparable range of spacings illustrate the improved vertical resolution obtained with Laterolog devices. The examples also show the different magnitudes of the auxiliary currents (thenceforth designated “bucking”- or “focusing” currents) used in the direct and reciprocal modes and illustrate how these currents must continuously vary in order to maintain the focused condition as the sonde moves through the bed.Finally, briefly considering possible applications of Laterolog-type arrays in surface prospecting, it is shown that a one-dimensional array laid out on the surface does not provide the same degree of measure-current focusing as is obtained in a borehole. Some improvement is obtained with a combination of two crossed linear arrays. Much more is obtained using a circular array.

Notizen: Inferior reflection quality in the Gulf of Suez at the target depth interval is attributable in part to surficial multiple reflections. An excellent example of the latter is observed on a typical seismic line in the northern portion of the Gulf. An increase in prominence of the multiple reflections appears associated with decreasing depth to a dipping highvelocity layer.Inversion of a second-order polynomial time-distance function, fitted to the observed refraction onset time-distance values, gives the velocity-depth function for sediments between the water bottom and a high-velocity layer. Velocities thus determined increase non-linearly with depth from a value near water velocity at the water bottom. Depths to the high-velocity layer are obtained from the associated head-wave linear time-distance function and by ray tracing in the overlying sediments.As the high-velocity layer approaches the water bottom from sub-water depths exceeding 0.6 km to a depth of 56 m, intensity of the multiple reflections increases to the extent of completely dominating individual records to a time of at least 3 s. The estimated plane-wave normal-incident reflection coefficient at the top of the high-velocity layer increases with decreasing depth to this layer, approaching 0.5 at the shallowest depth. This strong reflection coefficient further substantiates the existence of multiple reflections between the high-velocity layer and water layer. However, existence of water-layer multiples cannot be ruled out. The estimated water-bottom reflection coefficient is approximately 0.3, a substantial value. Multiple reflections of considerably less intensity are apparent where the high-velocity layer is deepest, and it is likely that such are waterlayer multiple reflections. Unfortunately, water-layer multiple reflections and multiple reflections between the water surface and high-velocity layer cannot be separated by their coincidence with time-distance (normal moveout) curves, the configuration of each visibly matching the curves equally well.

Notizen: Seismic exploration techniques which have been developed for oil prospecting contribute a valuable means for surveying coal measures. Since the object is to detect minor faults within the first 1500 m, rather than structural features at great depth, the new technique requires much higher resolution in the early part of the traditional seismic cross-section.Higher resolution means broader bandwidth, which must be obtained by extending the high frequency end of the spectrum. This is achieved (a) by scaling down the explosive charge size and using single geophones instead of groups, and (b) by reducing the sampling interval in space and time. Noise which does not scale down includes static anomalies and ground-roll. The consideration of statics, ground-roll, and the high-cut filtering effect of the near surface layers forces the use of deep shot holes and, where possible, deep detectors. This approach is confirmed by experiments and has been implemented on a regular basis in production.It is demonstrated that the present technique will clearly resolve faults with a vertical throw of about 5 m at 800 m depth.

Notizen: Correlations between longitudinal velocities and rock mechanic parameters such as fracture frequencies and “Rock Quality Designation” (RQD) values have been studied, based upon velocity data from various rock types and different geographical locations.The dispersion of values at different sites studied is on average ± 0.8 cracks per meter and for the RQD values ± 3.5%. Within sites the dispersion of individual values relative to the average for the site is ± 1.0 – 2.0 cracks per meter and ± 2 – 6% for the RQD values.The deviations are rather moderate, especially when considering the variation of rock type involved in the studies: amphibolite, granite, gneiss, meta-anorthosite, pegmatite, porphyry, quartzite, and mylonite. The studies thus confirmed earlier assumptions that there is a strong correlation between longitudinal velocity and fracturing and that the velocities can be used to give rather accurate predictions of the quality of rock masses for construction purposes. The accuracy of the predictions increases if the velocity level of the more competent rock is taken into account.The correlation between velocity and fracturing is related to jointed but unweathered igneous and metamorphic rock and cannot be applied without introducing serious errors to a site where the rocks present a higher degree of alteration and weathering.Comparisons between rock permeability and longitudinal velocity proved that a more reliable general correlation is not likely to be found.By comparing the elastic moduli Edyn, μ, and k with ø, Vp/V8, and k/μ, indications have been obtained where the optimum rock conditions for a certain site are to be encountered. This has been verified by a similar comparison where the elastic moduli have been replaced by fracturing values.The value of the longitudinal velocity as a means to evaluate rock quality increases if the position of the velocity in the range of the Poisson's ratio has been established.The average relationships between longitudinal velocities and the corresponding elastic moduli proved to be:The values from each site differ from the average values with about ± 2 GPa for Edyn and about ± 1 GPa for μ and k.It was confirmed that in igneous and metamorphic rocks longitudinal velocities ≤ 4000 m/s generally indicate rock masses where heavier tunnel support will be needed. This velocity limit corresponds to an average fracture frequency of about 10 cracks per meter and a RQD value of about 65 %. The prediction of the tunnel reinforcements needed at a particular site will, however, be improved if the general velocity level of the more competent rock is considered.

Notizen: The Minimum Entropy Deconvolution (MED) technique of Wiggins (1977) represents a breakthrough in deconvolution and will undoubtedly find wide application in many fields. MED does not require any phase assumptions about the disturbing function and seeks a deconvolved output which consists of the smallest number of large spikes consistent with the input data.The efficiency of MED is much improved when an exponential transformation is incorporated into the algorithm. This is particularly true when the input traces contain additive noise. In this case the noise suppression characteristics of MED are considerably enhanced by the transformation and the identification of smaller spikes is improved. This paper also presents a kurtosis criterion of simplicity rather than the varimax norm introduced by Wiggins. It appears that for a multiple trace input the kurtosis measure leads to improved results.

Notizen: Long leg multiples can be suppressed by a method which provides an alternative to weighted common-depth-point stacking and multichannel stacking filtering. The suppression is achieved by coherency weighting whereby the time-dependent weighting factor decreases as the semblance of the multiple reflections increases.The algorithm of the method is described. Its efficiency is discussed in relation to the input data and results of its application to marine seismic data are presented.For practical application, the stacking velocity of the multiples has to be known. As the process is based on stacking velocities, different types of multiples can be handled, for instance water-bottom multiples or internal multiples. The parameter analysis shows that the degree of multiple suppression can easily be controlled by adapting the parameters of the procedure to the field conditions.During the suppression of multiples, the primaries are saved according to the moveout differences between the two. The non-linear behaviour of the process causes signal suppression and distortion effects, which have to be corrected by AGC normalization and low-pass filtering.Among the various applications available, only the suppression of long leg water-bottom multiples is treated here. The results show that their suppression on the basis of moveout differences is efficient even when standard length streamers are used in regions with water depth of up to 1500 m and more, if the stacking velocity of the primaries is about 10 to 20% higher than that of the multiples. Even if those parts of the primaries which are masked by the multiples are suppressed in the individual common-depth-point gathers by the procedure, the remaining primaries in the AGV stacked section are largely uncovered by the multiple suppression.

Notizen: Investigation of fluctuating earth-currents has led to a simple method of eliminating the noise superimposed on the signal in geoelectrical resistivity surveys. The similarity of the potential fluctuations, simultaneously measured at different locations, is used to calculate the direction and magnitude of the potential gradient. Contour maps of equipotential lines were made, both from disjointed gradient measurements using a numerical approximation method and from a network of measured potential differences. These contour maps were compared with potential fields calculated for simple homogeneous models. A good fit was obtained with the field of a conducting plate. When this is subtracted from the measured field, the result is a map that shows anomalies that can be correlated with geological structures.

Notizen: The calculation of potential field anomalies on different levels below the measuring level permits to localize the singular points related to the sources of anomalies.It is possible to achieve considerable improvement of the resolution of this method〈list xml:id="l1" style="custom"〉1) filtering of analytical downward continuation,2) the use of the magnitude of the gravitational vector,3) calculation of physe changes.The numerical examples confirm these assumptions.

Notizen: The method of finite differences is applied to the computation of multi-dimensional synthetic seismograms. This paper gives a study of the mathematical and numerical formulations of the problem, the boundary conditions, the convergence conditions and how to simulate the source in both one solid or a liquid. It is shown that the numerical formulation chosen is valid both for direct and inverse problems (i.e. for modeling and migration). This formulation makes it possible to use the normal incidence reflection coefficients for P and S waves, whether they travel horizontally or vertically. The examples shown have been chosen on purpose in order to be easily interpreted. They do not give a full idea of the possibilities of the algorithm which allows to consider non-planar interfaces, except close to the vertical axis.

Notizen: Finite difference migration has been developed and popularized by J. F. Claerbout of Stanford University and is now widely used in seismic processing. For most sections finite difference migration gives results comparable to those obtained by conventional Kirchhoff migration and, where events are not dipping too much, a cleaner appearance is often apparent. However, there are two practical limitations to the method, and these occur in regions of very steep dip and where there is a large variation of the velocity in the lateral direction.It is possible to develop successively more accurate equations to deal with the steep dip problem, but above third order these schemes become prohibitively expensive to implement. The finite difference method itself introduces errors and so imposes further limitations on the angle of dip. For the effective treatment of steeply dipping beds there appears to be no method available in the time domain which does not suffer from dispersion inaccuracies. However, by developing wavenumber migration, an exact one-way wave equation can be used, and this eliminates any error except that caused by finite sampling.The other difficulty with wave migration is the correct migration in regions with lateral velocity variation. A number of approaches are possible of which three are discussed here. The first uses an exact theory, the second is based on the deviation from a depth stratified model, and the third uses a transformation to a depth co-ordinate system. All methods are discussed with their advantages and limitations. Finally, some examples are shown of wave migration applied to synthetic and real data.

Notizen: In seismic refraction surveys, in particular those using first arrival recording techniques, the hidden layer problem occurs where energy from a refractor of higher velocity arrives at the surface before energy from an overlying refractor. The maximum thickness of the hidden layer is referred to as the blind zone.Hypothetically, every recorded refractor has an associated blind zone which may or may not contain a hidden layer. For an assumed earth model of plane constant-velocity layers and stepwise increase of velocity with depth, the effect of a blind zone on an interpreted depth section may be evaluated by defining an intercept time for a blind zone of assumed or known velocity and by using standard time-term equations for layer thicknesses and depths.The treatment covers an arbitrary number of blind zones embedded within a multilayer sequence of horizontal or dipping refractors. Model calculations affirm the benefits of this approach compared with previous methods which, in general, have been restricted to the case of two horizontal layers with one intermediate blind zone.

Notizen: For a thin highly-conducting layer with given longitudinal conductance the recurrence formulae for an n-fold horizontally stratified subsoil are established for d.c. resistivity and magnetotelluric soundings. Similarly, a thin low conductivity layer with given transverse resistance is treated in the d.c. case and a non-conducting intermediate bed in magnetotellurics. Model curves for a thin high- or low-conductivity intermediate layer in the three-layer case have been carried out, which may serve as an extension of the well-known three-layer diagrams for a Schlumberger configuration. The corresponding model curves in magnetotellurics are given.By numerical comparison of these curves with real three-layer curves some diagrams have been developed to show the allowed thicknesses of the intermediate layer in the Schlumberger case and in the case of magnetotelluric sounding.

Notizen: Four radar systems at three different frequencies are described which are useful in probing into salt for finding information of interest to miners. Ranges in salt to (a) the edge of a salt dome, (b) the top of the salt dome, (c) boreholes in salt, or (d) faults or hazards ahead of mining can be determined using one or more of these radar systems. Radar wave velocities in salt are determined by radar probing through pillars of known length, and then used to determine ranges in salt to timed radar reflections. Radar probing results are shown obtained in different salt mines probing upwards and downwards. Enclosed areas in the mine are the best radar station locations to probe into salt as air reverberation of radar energy is shortened.

Notizen: A simple extension of our previous work in which digital filters were developed to transform dipole resistivity measurements over layered earth to Schlumberger ones leads us to the development of filters for transforming the latter to the former. As in the previous work we use a sampling interval of 1/6 In 10 in designing the filters that are both accurate and fast in operation.

Notizen: Seismic facies analysis makes use of different seismic parameters in order to get other than structural information. A review is given of possibilities and usefulness of seismic facies analysis in oil exploration.A seismic facies unit can be defined as a sedimentary unit which is different from adjacent units in its seismic characteristics. Parameters that should be taken into consideration in the seismic facies analysis are as follows: reflection amplitude, dominant reflection frequency, reflection polarity, interval velocity, reflection continuity, reflection configuration, abundance of reflections, geometry of seismic facies unit, and relationship with other units.Interpretation of seismic facies data may be either direct or indirect. The purpose of the direct interpretation is to find out geological causes responsible for the seismic signature of a seismic facies unit. So, the direct interpretation may be aimed at predicting lithology, fluid content, porosity, relative age, overpressured shales, type of stratification, geometry of the geological body corresponding to the seismic facies unit and its geological setting. The indirect interpretation is intended to reach some conclusions on depositional processes and environments, sediment transport direction, and some aspects of geological evolution (transgression, regression, subsidence, uplift, erosion).The results of the seismic facies analysis may be shown on seismic facies cross-sections and seismic facies maps. Depending on the available seismic data and geological conditions in the area under consideration, the seismic facies maps may be of different types such as general seismic facies maps showing distribution of different seismic facies units, sand-shale ratio maps, direction of cross-bedding and paleo-transport maps etc.Several kinds of seismic facies units and their geological interpretation are discussed as examples of seismic facies analysis.

Notizen: The reflectivity method for computing synthetic seismograms can be applied to seismic prospecting problems with special focus on coal-mining problems. The method allows the calculation of reflected waves for point-source excitation and non-vertical incidence. It automatically includes all possible conversions of wave types and all inner multiple reflections. Synthetic horizontal- and vertical-component seismogram sections are given for a simple two-seam model and for a realistic seam sequence which is represented by 48 layers; the source-receiver distances range from 100 m to 1000 m. These seismograms show prominent PS reflections already at moderate source-receiver distances. These waves complicate the vertical-component records by producing arrivals of similar strength as the PP reflections. From this it is concluded that PS reflections in strongly layered media can cause problems in routine CDP stacking. On the horizontal-component records the PS reflections are dominant. Because of the lower velocities of S waves the time resolution of PS reflections is better than that of PP reflections. This suggests that horizontal-component recording may be useful in the investigation of subsurface regions with strong velocity contrasts, even with conventional energy sources producing mainly P waves.

Notizen: Expressions for the I. P. activity coefficient for an inhomogeneous sphere with the conductivity increasing/decreasing from the core towards the periphery according to a power law have been derived.In certain geometrical situations of the electrode configurations a negative I. P. signal is obtained. The negative I. P. may be understood as due to modifications in the discharge current from the polarized medium during the discharge process.The results of the investigation may be useful for more accurate interpretation of I. P. anomalies due to isometric inhomogeneous bodies.

Notizen: Magneto-telluric experiments were performed in August 1974 in the Muhos Jotnian sedimentary formation and the Koillismaa Precambrian basement complex by the Centre de Recherches Géophysiques, Garchy, and the Department of Geophysics, University of Oulu, employing the “Résistivimètre magnéto-tellurique”, an instrument which permits apparent resistivity values to be observed at eight pre-selected frequencies between 8–1700 Hz.Preliminary soundings were made on the Muhos formation and on its surroundings, after which a magneto-telluric profile was measured involving eleven sites on a line 13 km long extending across the formation. Some further soundings were made at certain sites of known stratigraphy. The resistivity values in the sedimentary formation were found to vary between 10 ωm and 200 ωm, while those in the basement were markedly higher. This resistivity contrast suggests that the method seems to be suitable for delimiting the sedimentary formation.Soundings made on the basement at Koillismaa show apparent resistivity values in the range 1000–20000 ωm. The interpretation of these soundings was in agreement with other, independently obtained geophysical results.

Notizen: Multispectral recordings used for remote sensing are not without analogy with seismic records from CDP field set-ups. These seismic data may be regarded as “photographs’ of deep regions of the earth taken from various angles.The Karhunen-Loève (K.L.) transformation is commonly used for multispectral data processing, where it helps emphasize some features of remote sensing information. The same method may be applied to seismic data processing. Signal-to-noise ratio is improved on synthetic or field examples when K.L. transformation is applied instead of conventional CDP stacking. Residual statics seem to be diminished by a significant factor.

Notizen: A horizontally layered non-absorptive system of homogeneous layers may be specified by giving the reflection coefficients at each interface. Provided the layers have equal vertical travel time and a perfect reflector as a free surface, the reflection coefficients are generally reconstructed from the reflected pulses by way of solving simultaneous equations of the Toeplitz matrix form with the Levinson recursion method. There exists an alternative approach to solving this problem which by simple reasoning immediately turns out the (Levinson) recursion scheme. The method is based on formulas that relate to solving the forward problem. It resembles Kunetz's (1962) original inverse solution in as much as the computation of the reflection coefficients is based on the idea of separating the contribution of a primary from the sum of all multiples.

Notizen: The magneto-telluric and telluric-telluric profiling techniques are presented, and then a new method which combines these two techniques for mapping a parameter defined as the “apparent pseudo-resistivity”.The results obtained for the uranium structures in the Cluff Lake district (Saskatchewan Canada) indicate the use of these different techniques in the detection of zones of conduction for surface zones and for deeper zones, and demonstrate the advantages of these methods over the usual electrical methods in problems of structural research.

Notizen: The accuracy of the two most common arrival time functions used in seismic velocity estimation is investigated. It is shown that the hyperbolic arrival time function is more accurate than the parabolic arrival time function for a horizontally layered elastic medium. An upper bound on the difference between the two arrival time functions is given.A maximum-likehood detector for estimating the arrival time of the signals is given. For the signal-in-noise model that is used the maximum-likelihood detector is equivalent to a least-squares detector which corresponds to using the signal energy as coherency measure. The semblance coefficient corresponds to a normalized least-squares detector. The semblance coefficient is very similar to a filter performance measure that is used in least-squares filter design.

Notizen: The proposed system works as follows:〈list xml:id="l1" style="custom"〉1By a trial-and-error procedure using a graphic display terminal a geologically relevant layer sequence with parameters (ρj, dj) is adjusted to yield roughly the measured curve.2The resulting layer sequence is used as starting model for an iterative least squares procedure with singular value decomposition. Minimization of the sum of the squares of the logarithmic differences between measured and calculated values with respect to the logarithms of the resistivities and thicknesses as parameters linearizes the problem to a great extent, with two important implications:〈list xml:id="l2" style="custom"〉a) a considerable increase in speed (the number of iterations goes down), thus making it cheap to achieve the optimum solution;b) the confidence surfaces in parameter space are well approximated by the hyper-ellipsoids defined by the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the normal equations.Since these are known from the singular value decomposition we do in fact know all possible solutions compatible with the measured curve and the geological concept.〈list xml:id="l3" style="custom"〉3It is possible to “freeze” any combination of parameters at predetermined values. Thus extra knowledge and/or hypotheses are easily incorporated and can be tested by rerunning step (2). The overall computing time for a practical case is of the order of 10 sec on a CDC 6400.

Notizen: Ott and Meder's prediction error filter can be rederived so that it correctly handles input noise vectors which are of smaller dimension than the state vector. The poor performance obtained by Ott and Meder for their example can be explained by means of the error covariance matrix for the prediction error filter.

Notizen: The geological sequence rock-coal-rock represents a seismic low-velocity channel. Channel waves generated in a coal seam and their reflections from discontinuities can be used for proving the minability of the seam. To investigate the process of reflection, two-dimensional models of the sequence rock-coal-rock have been investigated by means of the ultrasonic transducer technique. Two-dimensional models have the advantage that the wave field can be observed at an arbitrarily chosen point of the model plate. Thus, by means of these models the direct and the reflected Rayleigh channel wave can be observed along their path of propagation.From the geophysical point of view the various types of discontinuities of a coal seam can be divided into two basic types: one is restricted to the seam, the other includes in addition a fractured zone in the adjoining rock.The investigation of the symmetrical Rayleigh channel wave reflected by a discontinuity yields the following results:For dip angles γ between approximately 90° and approximately 60° the reflectivity is virtually independent of the type of discontinuity. This does not hold for the limiting case of γ= 90° (vertical dip) for which the reflectivity increases with increasing influence of the fractured zone. For dip angles γ between approximately 60° and approximately 40° the reflectivity is still independent of the fractured zone but the shape of the reflected wave deteriorates with increasing influence of the fractured zone.For dip angles γ below approximately 40° the reflected wave deteriorates such that the application of the in-seam seismic reflection method will be difficult or even impossible.The conversion of the direct wave of the symmetrical fundamental mode into a reflected wave of the antisymmetrical fundamental mode has been observed.

Notizen: Analytical solutions exist for the potential of a Point Source in media with depth dependent conductivity of the form σ(z) =σ0(1 +αz)n.Of particular importance is the case of the linear gradient (n= 1). More general distributions of conductivity with depth can be approximated by equivalent sequences of homogeneous layers. Comparison between such approximations and the analytical solution for media with linear gradient of conductivity indicates that already a coarse step function yields a reasonably good approximation.

Notizen: The contribution of electromagnetic phase comparison techniques to distance measuring is reviewed in an historical context. Special emphasis is accorded the new class of near infra-red electro-optic instruments suited to the measurement of distances under 2 km with an accuracy of a few millimetres. Principles of operation, sources of error, and practical applications are discussed.

Notizen: A magnetotelluric digital equipment has been designed and built for operation in geophysical and applied geophysical research. The five components of the natural electromagnetic field can be digitized in the frequency range 1/1000 Hz (magnetic sensor's response limits) to some tens Hz.The magnetotelluric (MT) data are directly digitized in the field and stored in a cassette tape recorder.

Notizen: An electromagnetic frequency sounding experiment with a rigid horizontal transmitter coil carrying a stabilized oscillating current was carried out in South Tunesia.The field data were interpreted in terms of the mutual impedance ratio in the horizontal coils system. Where the measurements were sufficiently accurate they generally could be interpreted to a high degree of fit. It is concluded that a vehicle-mounted electromagnetic frequency sounding system is suitable for a fast survey.

Notizen: The application of approximate rules, whereby apparent resistivity space sections for two dimensional structures can be composited from spaces derived for elementary features is extended to a complex example drawn from a field survey over a fluorite mineral vein.A quantitative solution for the observed resistivity space is presented and the computational sequence involved in matching the observed space is given in detail.The interpreted results are examined in relation to the known geology, supplemented by the results of excavation, and to model tests conducted using a tank analogue.The example also illustrates how successive compositions can be employed in estimating the form of resistivity space in a relatively complex situation.

Notizen: The sampling theorem in two dimensions univocally defines a surface, provided that its values are known at points disposed on a regular lattice. If the data are irregularly spaced, the usual procedure is first to interpolate the surface on a regular grid and then to contour the interpolated data: however, the resulting surface will not necessarily assume the prescribed values on the irregular grid.One way to obtain this result is to introduce a transformation of the coordinates such that all the original data points are transferred into part of the nodes of a regular grid. The surface is then interpolated in the points correspondent to the other crosspoints of the regular grid; the contour lines are determined in the transformed plane and then, using the inverse coordinate transformation, are transferred back to the original plane where they will certainly be congruent with the original data points.Nonetheless, the resulting surface is very sensitive to the interpolation method used: two algorithms for that are analyzed. The first (harmonization) corresponds to the determination of the potential of an electrical field whose contour conditions are those defined by the data points. The second method consists in two dimensional statistical estimation (krigeing); in particular, the effects of different choices for the data auto-covariance function are discussed.The solutions are compared and some practical results are shown.