Derivation of Shear Wave Velocity Profiles from Explosion-Induced Seismic Waves

Authors

  • Sirichai Pethrung Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep
  • Supot Teachavorasinskun Chulalongkorn University
  • Sitthiphat Eua-apiwatch Burapha University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4186/ej.2025.29.5.61

Keywords:

simplified calculation method, multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW), explosion-induced seismic waves, soil profile characterization, Vs30

Abstract

This study introduces a simplified analytical method to extract shear wave velocity profiles from seismic waves evoked by explosives, providing a time-efficient solution to the conventional Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW) method. Controlled ammonium nitrate emulsion explosions were used at five research sites throughout Thailand with different geological conditions to capture ground motion data through a 16-geophone array during field investigations. This direct analysis evaluates surface wave arrival times in real-time while implementing elastic theory-derived empirical factors for analysis. The proposed method delivers results that match MASW-derived profiles yet require fewer complex procedures and shows Vs30 variations from 4.43 to 38.33%. The simplified method delivered the most accurate results in areas displaying gradual soil property transitions and showed reduced precision when dealing with abrupt soil type or mechanical property shifts. The new method transforms petroleum exploration seismic data into geotechnical applications by delivering dependable shear wave velocity profiles with lower complexity and using fewer resources. It is specifically valuable for limited-budget engineering projects or difficult-to-access locations.

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Author Biographies

Sirichai Pethrung

Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep, Bangkok, Thailand

Supot Teachavorasinskun

Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand

Sitthiphat Eua-apiwatch

Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Burapha University, Chonburi, Thailand

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Published In
Vol 29 No 5, May 31, 2025
How to Cite
[1]
S. Pethrung, S. Teachavorasinskun, and S. Eua-apiwatch, “Derivation of Shear Wave Velocity Profiles from Explosion-Induced Seismic Waves”, Eng. J., vol. 29, no. 5, pp. 61-75, May 2025.