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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

GCAGS Transactions

Abstract


Gulf Coast Association of Geological Societies Transactions
Vol. 49 (1999), Pages 342-349

3-D Seismic Applications for Environmental and Groundwater Reconnaissance

Donald J. Marlin (1), William H. Schramm (2), and Robert M. Mayer (3)

(1) Marlin Geological Associates, 910 Travis St., Ste. 1940 Houston, TX 77002

(2) Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 82215, Baton Rouge, LA 70884

(3) Geophysical Microcomputer Applications, Inc., 11757 Katy Fwy, Ste. 800 Houston, TX. 77079

ABSTRACT

An analysis of current three-dimensional (3-D) seismic exploration methods indicates a potentially useful application in environmental remediation and groundwater aquifer reconnaissance using data coverage that is commonly unused at depths less than 1500 feet (457 meters). Hundreds of square miles of shallow surface data not useful for oil and gas exploration may be available via proprietary, brokered, and public sources.

3-D seismic data is generated from a grid of near-surface explosive or vibrational sources and recorded into a grid of near-linear receiver lines. Commonly, 36 or more, 3 inch diameter (7.6 centimeter), 100 foot depth (30.5 meter) source holes per square mile are drilled. The seismic is processed to enhance signal record providing as dense as 55 foot (16.7 meter) bin or trace spatial resolution. The wavelet of the seismic trace can be isolated, extracted, and modeled against a myriad of actual borehole data (i.e., electric, drilling, borehole cuttings, and mud log information) to identify events that can be interpreted in areas of no control.

Frequency attenuates with depth, therefore, high resolution, if not overprinted by the acquisition footprint, can be obtained in the shallow subsurface (less than 500 feet (152.5 meters). After static correction to adjust the seismic trace data for surface irregularities, shallow time slices (that mimic low-relief topography) illustrate anomalies with patterns that suggest stratigraphic and structural variations. Examples from onshore Texas and Louisiana 3-D acquisitions illustrate the potential for predicting shallow sub-surface geologic and hydro-geologic conditions.


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