Abstract: Applications of Shear-Wave Technology in Southern Michigan

Keith R. Johnson

Recent advances in our understanding of seismic shear-wave acquisition, processing, and interpretation techniques (Alford, 1986; Li and Crampin, 1989; Mueller, 1991) have enabled us to use surface shear-wave surveys for the direct detection of fractures in the subsurface. Propagation of shear-wave energy is affected by the presence of fractures. Analysis of shear-wave polarizations (azimuthal anisotropy) and shear-wave splitting (birefringence) allow us to determine fracture presence, orientation, and density from surface studies. The applications of this technology are useful in both resource exploration and environmental investigations.

A short tutorial on shear-wave propagation theory is presented along with a review of acquisition, processing, and interpretation techniques necessary for the proper application of this technology. Studies from the southern Michigan basin are presented to show that fractured Paleozoic strata do exhibit anisotropic behavior in the presence of faults and fractures.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90984©1994 AAPG Annual Convention, East Lansing, Michigan, September 18-20, 1994