Automatic Denoising of Seismograms using Fingerprints: Algorithms, Properties, Limitations

Abstract

This article describes the new technique for automatically preparing a noisy seismic record for further analysis using expert information systems. The technique is based on seismogram fingerprints, which, due to their concise but informative pattern, allow the development of a reliable algorithm for finding important noise characteristics. The search for the optimal cutoff frequency for a high-pass filter is especially important under conditions of partial overlap of the signal and noise spectra at a high intensity of the latter. It is precisely this difficult case that this study aims to address. The article analyzes the developed methodology on the example of several hundred registrations of regional earthquakes and explosions. The analysis showed that reliable results can be achieved in more than 90% of cases. In addition to all the problems and limitations of the method, which are an extension of its capabilities, are mentioned. Appendix to the article contains detailed description of the algorithm underlying the method.