Recognition of rock anisotropy using integrated seismic approach – A case in Strzegom and Podleśna, Poland

Abstract

This paper presents the integration of seismic refraction and multichannel analysis of surface wave (MASW) measurements to investigate the anisotropy of P- and S-wave velocities. Additionally, synthetic forward modelling is presented as a tool for supporting seismic anisotropy studies. The geophysical measurements of cracks allowed to recognise the fracturing of a granite rock mass in a Paleozoic granite quarry (Strzegom, Poland) and a dolomite rock mass in a Triassic dolomite quarry (Podleśna, Poland). Application of the forward modelling supports the interpretation of seismic methods, simplifying data processing and verifying the final results based on data from difficult seismic conditions. As a result of direct measurements, two crack systems were determined in granite rock mass: NNE-SSW and NNW-SSE, and two in dolomite rock mass: NNE-SSW and NW-SE. Furthermore, the numerical results show the relationship between the highest values of P- and S-wave velocities and separated crack systems which allowed an unequivocal interpretation of the direction of stress, resulting in the deformations. The obtained information is promising to be helpful in mining exploration for optimising excavation works.

Keywords

• Fracturing
• Anisotropy
• Seismic refraction
• Multichannel analysis of surface wave (MASW)
• Forward modelling