12th Congress of the Balkan Geophysical Society
- Conference date: May 28-30, 2024
- Location: Kopaonik, Serbia
- Published: 28 May 2024
1 - 20 of 45 results
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Some Aspects of Seismic Activity During 2023 in Albania and Surrounding Area
More LessAuthors N. Dhurata, L. Arjol and O. RrapoSummaryThis study examines seismic activity in Albania and its surrounding areas during 2023, focusing on various tectonic zones and their contributions to local earthquake occurrences. Albania’s seismicity results from the collision between the Adria microplate and the Albanian orogeny, which activates both longitudinal and transversal faults across the region. Throughout 2023, approximately 3,040 earthquakes with magnitudes between 0.5 and 4.7 on the Richter scale were recorded, with 2,017 of them occurring within Albania’s territory. The main seismic zones in Albania are Vlora-Lushnja-Elbasani, Borsh-Kardhiq, and Korca-Ohrid. The strongest earthquake with magnitude 4.7 Richter was recorded near Klos city in January. The majority of earthquakes have shallow depths of 0–25 km, with activity concentrated in the upper and middle earth crust. In March 2023, were recorded the largest number of earthquakes in Albania, also the seismic activity in 2023 was lower compared to previous years.
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Contributions to the Active Tectonics and Geodynamics Research on the Moesian Platform
More LessAuthors I. Stanciu and I. DumitruSummaryThe Moesian Platform is a significant tectonic unit in the foreland of the Carpathians and Balkans, spanning across southern Romania and northern Bulgaria. It forms an elongated, west-east oriented structural unit defined by faults, extending into the Western Black Sea Basin up to the continental slope, where it gradually transitions into oceanic-type crust. Although by definition it is considered a stable tectonic unit, the Moesian Platform has played a significant role in the geological history of the region. It is widely accepted that Moesia collided with the emerging Carpathian-Balkan orogens during Cretaceous through Miocene. This collision was crucial in forming the Carpathians’ double-bend, generating significant extensional forces within the Moesian Platform during Pliocene-Quaternary. Originating in the research for the “Intramoesian Fault: Geophysical detection and regional active (net)tectonics and geodynamics” PhD thesis ( Stanciu, 2020 ), the Moesian Platform is an area of our interest for deciphering the geotectonic history, its (neo)tectonic features, geological structures and complex geomorphology.
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Introduction to EPOS, the European Plate Observing System
More LessAuthors George A. Donoso, Maxim Yu Smirnov and Savka DinevaSummaryEPOS, the EUROPEAN PLATE OBSERVING SYSTEM, is a multidisciplinary, pan-European distributed research infrastructure that facilitates the integrated use of data and data products, from the solid Earth science community in Europe. EPOS ensures the long-term access to solid Earth science data and services, with the goal of answering some of the most pressing societal questions concerning geo-hazards and those geodynamic phenomena relevant to the environment and human welfare. 26 Countries are currently part of the EPOS integration plan ( Figure 1 ), involving 256 Research Institutions. With the most recent members being Croatia and Bulgaria.
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Lithology Prediction Using Wave-Equation-Based AVO Seismic Inversion in Complex Geological Settings of the Pannonian Basin
More LessAuthors M. Vanić, E. Aleksakhina, H. Gonzalez and P. DoulgerisSummaryThe research area within the Pannonian Basin presents a complex geological setting, intricately divided into four distinct lithostratigraphic units. These units share similar lithological-petrophysical characteristics and respond to well-log measurements. In this case study, we delve into the application of Wave Equation-Based AVO (WEB-AVO) for precise lithology prediction, on an onshore oil reservoir within a sandstone-conglomerate formation. The WEB-AVO algorithm represents a seismic inversion scheme wherein the elastic wave equation is iteratively solved. Notably, it accounts for multiple scattering, mode conversions, and transmission effects across the target interval. The key steps of the WEB-AVO approach are initial elastic property estimation, wave-equation deployment and scattering effects, and direct solving for compressibility and shear compliance. A distinctive feature of WEB-AVO lies in its direct solution for compressibility (K, the reciprocal of bulk modulus) and shear compliance (M, the reciprocal of shear modulus). Unlike conventional AVO inversion techniques that focus on impedances, this approach provides more relevant information for quantitative interpretation. For the lithology prediction, we used a Bayesian classification algorithm for build facies volumes. Classification was done based on Kappa and M data in 6 wells, both absolute and contrast (relative) as input data. These results underwent significant analysis to validate their reliability. The result of the prediction illustrates very good match between the measured and predicted lithology logs for wells. Results of our research showcase the efficacy of employing elastic properties derived from WEB-AVO inversion for lithology prediction within a sandstone-conglomerate oil reservoir in the Pannonian Basin. Rather than dismissing observed non-linear events as mere noise, we recognise their significance. These unconventional seismic responses provide valuable additional information. By incorporating these events into our workflow, we enhance our understanding of subsurface properties. WEB-AVO demonstrates its predictive robustness beyond well locations. Elastic property predictions extend away from wells, enabling comprehensive reservoir characterisation. Notably, this method achieves efficiency gains by eliminating the need for specialised preconditioning—unlike traditional linear inversions. In summary, the integration of WEB-AVO inversion offers a powerful tool for lithology prediction, even amidst complex seismic data.
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Application of CRS Technique to Poor Quality of Seismic Signal Data
More LessAuthors R. Overas, V. Kalashnikova, A. Voronin and N. MukhutdinovSummaryThe present study demonstrates the application of Common-Reflection-Surface (CRS) technology to vintage seismic data acquired in the North-West territory of Uzbekistan. Application of this technology enabled achieving proper data regularization as well as an enhancement in the signal-to-noise ratio.
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Method for Spatial First Break Picking using Neural Network, QC, Editing and Smoothing
More LessAuthors R. Overas, V. Kalashnikova, A. Voronin and N. MukhutdinovSummaryThe reprocessing of vintage data in Central Asia aimed to preserve true amplitude relationships, high signal-to-noise ratio, and high-resolution recording for possible comprehensive kinematic and dynamic interpretation. Modern techniques were expected to be utilised, with potential new solutions designed to achieve this goal.
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Lithology and Fluid Prediction using AI Algorithms Around the Shrek Area in the Norwegian Sea
More LessAuthors V. Kalashnikova, E. Karaseva, R. Overas and V. SopivnikSummaryIn this work, we show the result of applying Rune Inversion and Machine Learning (ML) algorithms for lithology and hydrocarbon prediction to the seismic and well data in the Norwegian Sea in 2021. We are dealing with post-seismic data and considering the proposed techniques as an alternative and additional scanning tool to derisk the prospects. We study the area around Shrek and along Skarv discovery at Fangst Group formations, which often have hydrocarbon-bearing sandstones. Several wells penetrated reservoirs with success. A dry hole was one of the latest announced results of drilling in the studied area in 2024.
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Geophysical Investigation of Part of Ahmadu Bello University Farm, Nigeria
More LessAuthors I. Pedro Imafidon, O. Omoare and I. MarvisSummaryGeophysical methods are becoming an increasingly valuable tool even for agricultural applications. Agricultural geophysics investigations are commonly focused on delineating small- and/or large-scale objects/features within the soil profile (∼ 0 to 2 m depth) over very large areas. The study was carried out at a farm site in Ahmadu Bello University, to delineate subsurface structures with depth. It revealed the lithological units in the study area. The analyses have revealed various lithological units from the results of the inverted sections along the profiles. The study area has shown clearly two distinct layers, overburden and weathered basement. The overburden layer is clayey sand, sandy clay, and laterite. This laterite soil show very high resistivity anomaly that may be referred to as consolidated laterite. The weathered layer which contains medium grained sand with clay and feldspar materials also has the presence of fractured part that could act as the aquifer in the area. From the subsurface properties, this farm land may have low agricultural yield or may limit the cultivation potential of the region, but the region may be good for underground water yield.
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Hydrogeophysical Investigation of Asaba Area, Delta State, Nigeria
More LessAuthors I. Pedro Imafidon, O. Omoare and I. MarvisSummaryThe vertical electrical sounding (VES) was employed in investigation for aquiferous units in Asaba area in Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta state. Seven vertical electrical sounding were carried out in the study area using the schlumberger configuration with maximum current electrode spacing of 450 m – 500 m. The data was interpreted quantitatively and using the conventional curve matching and computer iteration method. The result revealed four to five geoelectric layers, with resistivity values ranging from 45.8 Ωm m to 1707 Ωm, 59 Ωm to 3434.9 Ωm, 83.2 Ωm to 5725 Ωm and 133.4 Ωm to 12693.4 Ωm for the first, second, third and forth/fifth layers respectively. The lithologies consisting of lateritic top soil, clay, fine medium and coarse grained sands with varying thickness. The aquiferous units were mostly confined and the results from this study were found to be consistent with some lithologic logs obtained from boreholes drilled in the study area.
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Ownership of Oil and Gas in Nigeria
More LessAuthors M. Dennis-Godfrey Praise, D. Chris Orobosa and A. Chibueze MichealSummaryThe field of Oil and gas is indeed a well-packed area or jurisdiction when the topic of what contributes most to the Nigerian economy comes up for discussion. In this stead, it should not be a surprise that this paper has been brought to aid the reader with between understanding of some of the important parts within the industry. This paper stands to distill the reins of oil and gas in Nigeria with respect to ownership in recurring situations. Herein, there would be recourse made to the different theories which have been concocted in trying to give a definite answer to the topical issue. Also, the writer seeks to take the reader herein on an academic journey from jurisdiction to jurisdiction with respect to the provisions in these countries apart from Nigeria on who owns Oil and Gas at law’; reference being made to legislations such as the Land Use Act, Petroleum Act, amongst others. A delve into political history concerning the tussle between the State and Federal Government concerning ownership of mineral resources would also be made. Whilst all these are achieved, the writer would also expound on ownership with respect to gas flares, an inherent output of the Gas mineral source and the different theories concerning ownership.
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Evaluation of the Macroseismic Field of Moderate M4.8 of Klosi Earthquake in Albania
More LessAuthors N. Dhurata, L. Arjol and O. RrapoSummaryThe Klosi earthquake, which occurred on January 15, 2023, with a magnitude of 4.8 (Ms), affected central and northern Albania, as well as parts of Kosovo* and North Macedonia. This study focuses on the evaluation of its macroseismic field using online web survey data collected through IGEO and EMSC platforms. Over 80 questionnaires were analyzed to assess the earthquake’s intensity using the European Mediterranean Scale (EMS-98). The Klosi earthquake’s epicentral intensity (I0) was estimated at 6.2, with a depth of 8 km. The spatial distribution of the macroseismic intensity was examined, revealing anisotropic components and random local variations based on responses from 20 municipalities. The study used a combination of empirical attenuation relations and statistical methods to model the macroseismic field and differentiate areas of amplification and de-amplification of seismic intensity. Results indicated that the attenuation was more pronounced in the northeastern part of Klosi, while the southern region exhibited lower attenuation, possibly due to varying crustal properties. This paper highlights the effectiveness of web-based macroseismic surveys in quickly seismic data collecting across large areas.
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Amplitude and Traveltime Inversion for Mono-Channel Boomer Surveys
More LessAuthors A. Vesnaver and L. BaradelloSummaryMono-channel recording systems with a Boomer seismic source are very cheap and can be easily deployed in sensitive environments such as lagoons or busy harbors ( Zecchin et al. 2008 ). The price paid for these advantages is the lack of signal redundancy typical of multi-channel records, which makes it possible to estimate wave propagation velocity and angle-dependent reflectivity, and to improve the signal-to-noise ratio by stacking or migration. In this paper, we show that some of this information can be obtained by inverting the amplitudes and traveltimes of shallow primary reflections and their multiples, using a single offset in a Boomer survey.
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Study about Block Size Distribution Curves and Commercial Boundaries of the Marble Quarries
More LessAuthors L. Asimopolos, N. Silvia Asimopolos, A. Turanboy, E. Ulker and A. Aristide AsimopolosSummaryWithin the EraMin 3 project “Artificial Intelligence Characterization Ornamental Stones Quarry Optimization (AI-COSTSQO)” we completed the following work stages: field measurements, identification of discrete fracture network (DFN) in marble quarries and determination of Block Size Distribution Curves (BSDC). In this paper we present examples from each stage of work. Thus, we started with non-destructive geophysical methods (GPR -Ground penetration radar, electrometry and seismic) in the Ruschita, Pietroasa, Carpinis, Botticino and Finike quarries. These contain fractures with various characteristics that negatively influence the quality of the extracted blocks. The Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) was the next step, after interpreting the results of the geophysical measurements, and simulates the distribution of natural fractures in a 3D model. Finally, we presented BSDC and Commercial Boundaries, which represents the preliminary result for the input data in the AI-based software program for the optimization of quarry exploitation.
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Hybrid Singular Value Decomposition (SVD)-Based Interval Inversion Algorithm for Robust Petrophysical Parameters Prediction
More LessAuthors Moataz M. Gomaa Abdelrahman, N. Szabo and Nadasi E. KazmerSummaryThe study explores a hybrid optimization algorithm designed to address ill-posed well-logging inverse problems, combining Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) and Damped Least Squares (DLSQ) techniques. The research leverages interval inversion, utilizing series expansion for identifying petrophysical properties across depth intervals, ensuring precision amidst nonlinearity challenges. Initially employing the SVD approach ensures stability by thoroughly evaluating eigenvalues before shifting to the faster DLSQ method, optimizing efficiency as convergence nears completion. Testing on synthetic and real field data from a gas-bearing reservoir in Egypt’s Western Desert validates the algorithm’s capacity to predict reservoir characteristics such as lithology, porosity, and saturation with improved accuracy. The findings highlight the heterogeneous nature of the reservoir, mainly comprised of sandstone layers interspersed with shale laminations. This approach not only provides computational efficiency but also enhances characterization and decision-making in reservoir development by accommodating uncertainties and capturing variations in reservoir quality.
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Building the Bathymetryc Map of the Coastal Line of Adriatic Sea, Seman Region, Albania with the Aid of Geological and Reflection Seismics Cross-Sections
More LessSummaryThe aim of study is to give in brief the lithologic-stratigraphic description of the rocks which are part of geological construction of Seman region, their geologic-tectonic characteristics as well as the bathymetric map in front of the power plant site in Seman area, Fier, Albania. The study includes the graphic material consulted and interpreted by the author. Based on the stratigraphical data and the tectonic ones, the area of study belongs to the accumulative coastal section Vlorë-Shkodër. This section is characterized by interaction of the powerful hydrographical netting and the activity of sea waves and coastal line is characterized by formation of bays, beaches and marshes when the quotation is lower. As the geomorphology of the area of study is almost calm, the bathymetry of coastal line is very clam. The main predominant fact in this sector is that of continuous accumulation of loads from rivers, streams, from east toward west, high and low tides as well as the influence of sea waves. Consequently, the shape of costal line is characterized by the changes that advance in the east direction. The shape of coastal line in the case of continuous flows of rivers is characterized by the interaction of the intensity of sea waves, lithology of river loads (sediments) and tectonic and neo-tectonic phenomena. Based on the data concerning the bathymetry in Adriatic Sea, it is designed the bathymetric map, where there are obviously shown the diving elements.
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Integrated Geophysical Study of the Ancient City of Cabyle, Southern Bulgaria
More LessAuthors C. Tzankov and P. ZidarovSummaryCabyle is one of the most important ancient cities in Southern Bulgaria with almost uninterrupted habitation for over a millennium between 4th c. BC and 6th c. The continuous human presence in the area has led to a spatial overlap and intertwining of diverse remains from several historical periods, the localization and contouring of which presents a great challenge for geophysical methods as well. The use of car-towed multisensor magnetic gradiometry was instrumental for mapping extensive areas and turning the focus on prospective locations, while possibly revealing a new bath complex beyond the city walls. ERT helped to distinguish geological faults from massive walls. GPR was most successful in outlining the plan of an important part of the Late Roman town, whereas aerial photography indicated a massive building with East-West orientation outside its limits. Archaeological excavations informed by the survey results demonstrated a very close match between the features on the GPR model and the excavated architectural remains. This case study may serve as a perfect illustration of the usefulness of integrated application of geophysical methods for strategic decision-making and long-term management plans of archaeological parks and monuments.
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DEMONITOR Project: Advancing Landscape Monitoring and Conservation through Integrated Geophysical Techniques
More LessAuthors D. Đurić, M. Marjanović, U. Đurić, M. Pejić and B. SretkovićSummaryMonitoring and conservation of dynamic landscapes, particularly those shaped by erosional and volcanic processes, require advanced, integrated approaches. At the Devils’ Town site in southern Serbia, geophysical techniques are being employed to assess and predict changes in the landscape, with a focus on both surface and subsurface dynamics. Techniques such as electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), seismic refraction tomography (SRT), and satellite radar interferometry (InSAR) provide high-resolution data on subsurface conditions and surface deformations. By integrating these methods with terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and UAV photogrammetry, this approach allows for precise monitoring of landscape evolution. Correlating environmental triggers, including weather conditions, with observed changes contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the geological processes at work, enhancing long-term conservation strategies for this geologically significant site.
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Role of Geophysics for Security Challenges in the World
More LessAuthors F. Chitea, D. Ghica, D. Ioane, I. Stanciu, A. Serban, D. Maciuca and A. SudituSummaryGeophysics education primarily emphasizes its applications in resource exploration, understanding Earth’s structure, addressing environmental challenges (such as landslides analysis, assessing soil pollution impacts, and evaluating climate change effects), as well as in engineering contexts (e.g., site characterization, rock property analysis, non-invasive infrastructure monitoring, and the study of induced seismicity and land instability). In addition, public awareness of geophysics tends to be limited to a few prominent areas, such as its role in studying earthquake-prone regions and resource discovery. However, Geophysics can serve the community in other forms as well. The role of geophysics in addressing both global and local security challenges is often underrepresented in academic curricula, typically limited to applications such as detecting unexploded ordnance (UXO) or locating munition stockpiles from past conflicts, including World War I, World War II, regional military conflicts and guerrilla warfare. In this context, this paper emphasizes the need to expand geophysics educational curricula to include topics such as the analysis of seismic and acoustic data to depict signals from military actions or (illicit) weapon testing, along with practical training in data interpretation for these purposes. The curriculum should also address the application of magnetometry and electromagnetic methods for detecting landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW) and integrating geophysics with remote-sensing and UAV technology to enable safer surveying in high-risk areas. Specialized training for geophysical teams in mine and explosive ordnance detection is also essential for enhancing survey safety.
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Estimation of Sediment Thickness of Sofia City from Horizontal-to-Vertical Spectral Ratio (HVSR) Curve Inversion
More LessAuthors G. Georgieva and C. TzankovSummaryThe velocity structure up to 1 km in three locations situated in the city of Sofia, Bulgaria was investigated using HVSR technique. The sites were selected according to the present of boreholes and geological information for the sediment thickness and geothermal water level. 30 min recording with broadband seismometer Geobit GeotinyMK2 was performed in each location. Velocity models up to 1000 m were obtained from inversion of the H/V curve. The results correlate well with the velocity models based on the geological structure. Even some deviations of the depths of the layers compared to the depths estimated from boreholes are observed in all locations the results show that the technique can be applied successful to a depth up to 1 km.
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Geophysical Methods for Optimizing the Design and Construction of Underground Mining
More LessAuthors M. TomovaSummaryGeophysical techniques are essential in underground mine planning as they offer critical insights into subsurface geology, ore bodies, structural features, and potential risks. Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) is a widely used geophysical technique in this field. In the current study, ERT is applied to delineate the extent, geometry, and continuity of subsurface voids. By identifying high-resistivity zones related to ore bodies, mining operations can be better optimized, including excavation planning and hazard mitigation. ERT surveys also provide crucial details about geological structures, such as faults, fractures, and bedding planes, aiding in understanding ore deposition and designing safer, more efficient mining layouts.
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