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Abstract

Summary

Passive seismic exploration offers a cost-effective, sustainable alternative for identifying critical mineral deposits, especially as demand rises due to the energy transition. Unlike active seismic methods, passive seismic uses ambient vibrations from natural and human sources, eliminating the need for invasive and expensive drilling. MEMS-based nodal sensors, which are lightweight, versatile, and highly sensitive, allow deep subsurface imaging by recording very low frequencies (<0.5 Hz). This method is particularly effective in remote or logistically challenging areas. A case study using 350 MEMS nodes over a 5×10 km area showed that, with advanced processing techniques like Matched Field Processing and multi-wave inversion, high-resolution velocity models (75m resolution to 1 km depth) can be produced quickly and reliably. Results highlighted geological features and subsurface structures consistent with known stratigraphy and aeromagnetic data. Overall, passive seismic is a powerful tool for modern mineral exploration, providing valuable geological insights at a lower cost and operational burden.

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/content/papers/10.3997/2214-4609.202520235
2025-09-07
2026-02-11
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References

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