Abstract: High-Resolution Seismic Exploration for Geologic Faults in Coal Seams

Marshal G. Scherba

Coal seams approximately 7 ft, 9 ft, and 20 ft (2, 3, and 6 m) thick at depths of 250,600, and 1,000 ft (76, 180, and 304 m) respectively, were detected using high-resolution seismic-reflection techniques. Investigation of seismic profiles indicates that good data are required to delineate faulting with only 20 ft (6 m) of throw but that faulting with 50 ft (15 m) of vertical displacement can be detected with poor data. Data acquired from dynamite charges fired in water-saturated media were clearly superior to that acquired using charges dry tamped in 10- and 20-ft (3 and 6 m) holes.