Maximising the value of high-definition 3D coal seismic data

The acquisition of seismic data over coal mining leases in Queensland's Bowen Basin first commenced over 30 years ago. Since then, coal seismic data has been predominantly utilised for structural interpretation, particularly fault delineation. In the last decade advances in 3D land seismic data acquisition and processing have provided seismic interpreters with improved datasets which can now also be used for quantitative analysis in addition to structural framework definition. Whilst the majority of seismic technologies have been developed for the oil and gas industry, they can be adapted to shallow 3D seismic surveys over coal mine leases. This paper reviews the current application of key interpretation techniques within BHP, including examples of how seismic data can be used to both improve coal mine operational efficiency and mitigate safety risks. Firstly, we show examples of seismic attributes which we utilise for structural interpretation and compare the results against high wall scan interpretations. We then demonstrate how frequency attributes can aid the interpretation of coal seam split lines. Finally, an overview of QI techniques is provided along with details of how these outputs can be integrated with borehole log data and utilised for coal seam burden characterisation, which is especially important for mine planning.