A Portable S-wave vibrator for high-resolution imaging of the shallow subsurface

Abstract

The need for high-resolution seismic imaging of the shallow subsurface has grown rapidly particularly in civil, geotechnical, and environmental engineering. In most cases, P waves have been used. However, P-wave seismics has some fundamental weaknesses that are difficult to overcome. Firstly, P wave can only indirectly (through AVO) address the shear strength of the soil that is of primary interest to the engineers. Secondly, in the shallow (0-50 meter) depth range of interest, S waves are, more sensitive than P waves to changes in soil composition/facies. Finally, P-wave are more affected by the effects of the weathering layer than S waves. In view of these limitations, the application of S waves becomes interesting.