EVALUATION OF ELASTIC PROPERTIES OF THE OVERBURDEN USING SEISMIC REFRACTION METHOD (MULTICHANNEL ANALYSIS OF SURFACE WAVES): CASE STUDY OF FUPRE DELTA STATE NIGERIA.
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Using the Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW) method, this study evaluates the elastic properties of the overburden in parts of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE). Eight transverse profiles were established at the back of the College of Science to obtain shear wave velocity (Vs) data for near-surface characterisation. Field data were acquired using a 24-channel seismograph, 4.5 Hz vertical geophones, and a 9.5 kg sledgehammer as the seismic source. Dispersion curves were generated from the seismic records and inverted to obtain 1D and 2D shear wave velocity models. The results revealed shear wave velocities ranging between 150 m/s and 500 m/s within the first 25 m of the subsurface, indicating unconsolidated sandy and silty clay materials with variable stiffness. Derived elastic parameters showed Shear Modulus (G) values between 0.4 × 10⁸ N/m² and 2.0 × 10⁸ N/m², and Young’s Modulus (E) values between 0.9 × 10⁸ N/m² and 4.5 × 10⁸ N/m², suggesting progressive compaction with depth. These findings indicate that the overburden materials are mechanically stable and suitable for light to medium structural foundations. This study provides baseline geophysical data for future geotechnical investigations within FUPRE and contributes to understanding the elastic behaviour of Niger Delta sediments.
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