Military Hydrology. Report 15. The Seismic Refraction Compression-Shear Wave Velocity Ratio as an Indicator of Shallow Water Tables. A Field Test.
Abstract
To test the assumption that the velocity of shear waves increases much less than the velocity of compressional waves at a water table, a seismic refraction survey was performed over a shallow water table in alluvial sediment. Using a sledge hammer and a partially buried steel cylinder as a source, a maximum shot-to-receiver distance of 330 ft and depth of investigation of 60 ft were achieved. The ratio of V(sub p) to V(sub s) (compressional/shear wave velocity) at the water table was found to be 2.48. In the four nonsaturated layers above the water table, V(sub p)/V(sub s) ratios ranged form 1.54 to 1.55. As predicted by the theoretical models considered, shear wave velocity did not increase in compressional velocity at each refractor. While results indicate that the comparison of S- and P- wave velocity profiles is a promising technique for water table detection, more research is necessary to define the reliability and limits of the method. Keywords: Compressional seismic waves; Ground water; Military hydrology.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA189626
Entities
People
- Christine Schuyler-rossie