MASW and Microgravity - a novel approach to investigating Karstic features in a large Tailings Storage Facility.
Creators
- 1. GBG Group, aaron@gbgoz.com.au
- 2. GBG Group, simon@gbgoz.com.au
Description
Multi-channel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW) is a non-destructive seismic method which uses the elastic properties of subsurface materials to determine the subsurface structure. By analysis of the dispersive properties of varying frequencies from a single seismic source, shear-wave velocity (Vs) and associated geotechnical parameters can be determined. Microgravity is a potential field technique used to accurately record localised variations in the earth's gravitational field. The variations in gravitational readings are caused by density contrasts of the rocks and sediments beneath the reading location. Both methods are therefore an indicator of low velocity and low-density subsurface units, a common characteristic of karstic features or voiding. When individual readings from both methods are combined, a scientist can interrogate the subsurface in a detailed manner outlining both low velocity and corresponding low-density areas. Through careful interpretation, an accurate image of the subsurface can be inferred. Although both methods have been used independently for karstic investigations, they have not been combined for a large-scale geotechnical investigation and used to constrain the overall 3D geotechnical model. This paper presents an alternative way of using seismic and gravity investigations with the primary objective to target unconsolidated subsurface strata or voiding, within limestone terrains. The way data is collected and combined within this paper is specifically designed and applicable for Tailings Storage Facilities. The paper introduces the reader to automated GPS corrected MASW data collection, while handling large datasets in excess of 85,000 shots. The paper also covers 3D inversion and display of the MASW data, and how modelled data can be interrogated to use results and findings to plan a Gravity campaign over anomalous areas. Finally, the paper will outline how all datasets can then be used to constrain final 3D models for target anomalies associated with unconsolidated subsurface strata or voiding.
Notes
Files
AEGC_2023_ID042.pdf
Files
(314.5 kB)
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