Shear-wave seismic reflection studies of unconsolidated sediments in the near surface

We have successfully applied of SH-wave seismic reflection methods to two different near-surface problems targeting unconsolidated sediments. At the former Fort Ord, where the water table is approximately 30 m deep, we imaged aeolian and marine aquifer and aquitard stratigraphy to a depth of approximately 80 m. We identified reflections from sand/clay and sand/silt interfaces and we mapped these interfaces along our transects. At an aggregate study site in Indiana, where the water table is at a depth of 1 to 2 m, we imaged stratigraphy in alluvial sand and gravel, and observe a strong reflection from the 32-m-deep bedrock surface. In both cases, we exploited the high resolution potential of SH waves, their insensitivity to water content, and the possibility of reducing Love wave contamination by working along a roadway. We accomplished our results using only sledgehammer sources and simple data processing flows.