A major thrust of research in the EGL (Engineering
Geophysics Laboratory) is the application of seismic surface waves to characterize
geotechnical sites. We are developing new methods for exploring laterally
variable sites using seismic surface waves. Research is proceeding along
several fronts:
- identifying and separating waveform components
through wavelet analysis of synthetic and real data
- predicting effects of lateral variations
on seismic data through numerical analyses
- developing a rapid, automated method of
screening for cavities
- exploring multichannel data acquisition
and interpretation to enhance efficiency
Results of the research will also help us understand
the effects of lateral variations on the accuracy of layered profiles established
using conventional interpretation methods.
We are also beginning to complement our capabilities
in the seismic area with electrical resistivity and electromagnetic conductivity
tools.
