Shear-wave seismic reflection studies of unconsolidated sediments in the near surface

Abstract

We have successfully applied of SH-wave seismic reflection methods to two different near-surface problems targeting unconsolidated sediments. At the former Fort Ord, where the water table is approximately [Formula: see text] deep, we imaged aeolian and marine aquifer and aquitard stratigraphy to a depth of approximately [Formula: see text]. We identified reflections from sand/clay and sand/silt interfaces and we mapped these interfaces along our transects. At an aggregate study site in Indiana, where the water table is at a depth of [Formula: see text], we imaged stratigraphy in alluvial sand and gravel, and observe a strong reflection from the [Formula: see text]-deep bedrock surface. In both cases, we exploited the high resolution potential of SH waves, their insensitivity to water content, and the possibility of reducing Love wave contamination by working along a roadway. We accomplished our results using only sledgehammer sources and simple data processing flows.