Application of the refraction microtremor (ReMi) process for predicting change in rock characterisation and possible correlations with the rock mass rating (RMR)

Abstract

In an attempt to provide a more efficient means of determining changes in rock characterisation, a study was conducted using the refraction microtremor (ReMi) process in an underground mine. ReMi involves acquiring noise data along a linear array of geophones. The data for our study was analysed using the SeisOpt® ReMi™. Various geophone orientations were investigated in order to determine which produced the most discernible dispersion curve. In order to determine whether the changes seen actually exist, shear wave velocities were measured in location of known rock characterisation. These shear wave velocities were then compared with the rock mass rating (RMR) and previously published correlations between RMR and shear wave velocity. In addition, the use of ReMi as a tool to determine the extent of voids underground was investigated.