Chris Mancuso: Imaging Near-Surface Structures in Crystalline Rock, Finite Frequency Assumptions

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The presentation provides valuable insights into a novel method for imaging steep structures using surface waves, which is a relatively underexplored area. The argumentation is solid, with clear explanations of the method, synthetic validation, and application to real data. The presenter acknowledges limitations and suggests future improvements, which enhances the credibility. However, the real data interpretation is preliminary and based on limited azimuth coverage, and the method relies on simplifying assumptions.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The presentation is scientifically rigorous, with a clear methodology and validation on synthetic data. The sources cited are primarily the presenter’s own work and the SpecFEM 3D software, but no external references are provided. The title accurately reflects the content. The talk is part of a scientific meeting, indicating some level of peer scrutiny, but it is not peer-reviewed.

The title accurately reflects the content, focusing on imaging near-surface structures using finite frequency assumptions.

7/10

The presentation is a methods development talk by a PhD candidate, presenting original research with synthetic and real data tests. The methodology is clearly explained, and results are shown with limitations acknowledged. However, it is a conference presentation without peer review, and the real data interpretation is preliminary.

Markers derived by PSI from the transcript: the creator did not define chapters.

• 00:00Introduction and motivation for using surface waves to image steep structures.
• 02:00Background on surface waves and their sensitivity to shear wave velocity.
• 05:00Explanation of backscattered surface waves and their appearance in shot gathers.
• 08:00Description of the migration method and its assumptions.
• 10:00Synthetic modeling setup using SpecFEM 3D and acquisition geometry.
• 12:00Results from synthetic data showing radial, transverse, and vertical component images.
• 14:00Application to real data from Geraldton transect and identification of backscattered surface waves.
• 16:00Interpretation of migrated images and correlation with geological and magnetic data.
• 18:00Conclusions and future directions.

• SpecFEM 3D — Used for synthetic seismic modeling.

• SpecFEM 3D — Used for synthetic modeling, consistent with the method.