Seismic methods
Refraction
We have the capacity to conduct seismic refraction campaigns for the inspection of structures (study of dams, construction, etc.), and the exploration of groundwater.
Using a hammer or dropping weight, we record quality data (Figure 3) which will be taken by our processing team. Specialists in seismic processing and tomography will provide you with a cross-section of the subsoil with velocity characteristics which will be interpreted to provide an answer to your needs; from the same study we offer a dispersion cross-section in MASW (surface waves), allowing for a good appreciation of shear velocities.
We use internationally approved and recognized methods, such as the classical slope definition method, which allows us to determine the depths of velocity contrasts (Figure 4). We also use the plus-minus method for delineating interfaces with fewer shots. This method is complemented by others, such as the generalized method or GRM, which utilizes wave propagation in two directions.
The method is primarily of interest for:
Exploration and exploitation of groundwater (hydrogeology)
Geological mapping
Anomaly detection
Compaction assessment
Reflection
We have expertise in processing seismic reflection data, and with our experience, we have a full team of specialists in the field. Seismic reflection allows us to image the contrasts within materials at depth for mining, hydrogeological, and reservoir applications.
We have the capability to estimate the depth of geological variations and identify decompression zones. Using a source such as a hammer or falling weight, we assess sound waves and their propagation in the subsoil to describe it non-destructively.
The method is primarily of interest for:
Oil exploration,
Mineral exploration
Geological mapping
Geotechnical investigations
Geothermal energy
MASW (Surface Waves)
This method, which has been the subject of much interest in recent decades, is useful to us for civil engineering prospecting, the diagnosis of structures and the reconnaissance of land for foundations.
Surface waves are waves that propagate along the Earth's surface and lose amplitude with depth. This characteristic makes surface wave analysis very advantageous for near-surface studies, as a large amount of energy is concentrated in the shallow zone.
Another advantage of the method is that the velocities are related to the shear components of the materials through which they pass. This allows us to estimate mechanical properties in certain media.
Using mathematical transformations, we use Fourier concepts to recover the information hidden in these dispersive waves (Figure 6), we work in the frequency domain to make models that will lead to seismic tomographies or we present the velocity variations of a medium.
The most common applications for this method are:
Anomaly detection (dam study)
Compaction assessment
Leakage assessment over time
Subsurface mapping
Structural examination
