Interferometric Processing with Stimulated Seismic Sources for 2D/3D Near Surface Characterization with Mining Applications

Understanding the subsurface structure within the top hundred meters is crucial for mining exploration, safety, and monitoring. This study introduces a novel hybrid seismic imaging method that integrates active sources, such as hammer strikes, accelerated weight drops and rock drops, with passive ambient noise interferometry. Through this hybrid method, we achieve high-resolution shear-wave velocity profiles and volumetric models, which are key for characterizing near-surface structures. Our method overcomes the limitations of traditional seismic techniques by significantly reducing acquisition time—from weeks for passive methods to just minutes—while avoiding the high costs and complexities associated with conventional active sources. Each type of active source brings unique frequency characteristics, enhancing depth resolution. Combining P-wave and S-wave velocity analyses provides additional insights into material hardness, further enhancing the method’s utility for diverse mining applications. Three case studies demonstrate the method’s efficiency: detecting subsurface caves, characterizing a rock valley in an open pit, and assessing bedrock hardness to ensure tailing dam safety. This hybrid approach offers a cost-effective, efficient, and adaptable solution for seismic imaging and monitoring in mining and geotechnical contexts, contributing to improved operational safety and efficiency.