Noise suppression for detection and location of microseismic events using a matched filter

Abstract

Detection and location of microseismic events is generally limited by seismic noise and inversion velocity model accuracy. These issues can be overcome by using “a matched filter” in order to stack scattered energy and reduce demands on the accuracy of the inversion velocity model for events with similar mechanisms and nearby locations. We have applied the technique to a surface monitoring dataset of the microseismic events induced by hydraulic fracturing to detect and relatively locate events. We have benchmarked detection and relative location with a direct location technique (PSET® technology).