A multi-component seismic azimuthal imaging trial: preliminary results

Abstract

In conventional (P) seismic-reflection surveys, a P-wave generated at the surface is reflected to provide an image of the subsurface. Upon reflection some of the energy is converted into a shear (S) wave. This reflection is known as a converted wave or PS- wave, and may improve the geological interpretation. Velseis has acquired a number of 2D PS- wave surveys at the shallow coal-scale (0-400m). Typically, the two images created from positive, and negative, offset rays can lead to differing geological interpretation. The effect has also been documented at the petroleum scale, and may be caused by diodic-illumination and azimuthal anisotropy. This effect is expected to be exacerbated in the 3D case.