Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW) Active and Passive Methods

Shear modulus is directly linked to material's stiffness and is one of the most critical engineering parameters. Seismically, shear-wave velocity (Vs) is its best indicator. Although methods like refraction, down-hole, and cross-hole shear-wave surveys can be used, they are generally known to be tougher than any other seismic methods in field operation, data analysis, and overall cost. On the other hand, surface waves, commonly known as ground roll, are always generated in all seismic surveys with the strongest energy, and their propagation velocities are mainly determined by Vs of the medium. Furthermore, sampling depth of a particular frequency component of surface waves is in direct proportion to its wavelength and this property makes the surface wave velocity frequency dependent, i.e., dispersive. The multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW) method tries to utilize this dispersion property of surface waves for the purpose of Vs profiling in 1-D (depth) or 2-D (depth and surface location) format. The active MASW method generates surface waves actively by using an impact source like sledgehammer, whereas the passive method utilizes those generated passively by cultural (e.g., traffic) or natural (e.g., thunder and tidal motion) activities. Investigation depth is usually shallower than 30 m with the active method, whereas it can reach a few hundred meters with the passive method. Overall procedures with both methods are briefly described.