In Situ Seismic Methods

Non-Invasive (Surface)

Seismic refraction
(ASTM D5777)
High
- resolution seismic
reflection
Surface wave methods

Invasive (Borehole)

Crosshole
(ASTM D4428
- M
)
Downhole
Geophysical logging

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Crosshole Method
10 to 15 ft

Source

Shear and
Compression
Waves

V=

Triaxial
Receivers

x
t

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Crosshole Method

Number of boreholes

3 (ASTM preferred
2 (ASTM optional

Borehole spacing

Physical coupling of
source and receivers
Orientation of source
and receivers

x = 10 ft
for Vs < 1500 ft/sec
x = 15 ft
for Vs > 1500 ft/sec

Borehole verticality

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Crosshole Method

Advantages

Simple concept and

calculations
Resolution independent of
penetration (i.e., depth)
ASTM D4428 Standard
Method

Disadvantages

Expensive
Borehole verticality
measurements required

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Downhole Method
5 to 10 ft

Source

t1
Triaxial
Receiver

Shear and
Compression
Waves
t2

V=

z
z
=
t2 t1 tint erval

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Downhole Method

Advantages

Only one borehole/probe

Simple concept and
calculations
Easily implemented using
seismic cone test
Verticality is less
important

Disadvantages

Limited to depths less

than about 60 m

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Borehole Logging Methods

Fluid-Filled
Borehole

Compression
Shear
Stoneley

Triaxial
Receivers

Pseudo-Rayleigh

z
Shear and
Compression
Waves

Source

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Borehole Logging Methods

Geophysical Service Companies

Schlumberger
Baker Atlas
Robertson GeoLogging
Reeves Wireline, Inc.
etc.

Geotechnical Testing

OYO Suspension Logger

GEOVision Geophysical Services, Inc.

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Borehole Logging Example

Compression Wave Velocity (m/sec)
1000
0
100
200

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

Wilson 2-14 Well

Mississippi County, AR
3 to 5-ft Compensated Sonic Log

Depth (m)

300
400
500
600
700
800
900

120

Borehole Logging Methods

Advantages

Ideal for deep profiling

Widely used in resource
exploration
Interpretation ?

Disadvantages

Limited geotechnical
experience

121