Comparison of linear and nonlinear elastic moduli for rocks by use of a granular medium model

Abstract

Comparative analysis of linear and nonlinear elastic parameters variability depending on material structure and initial stress is given based on the model of the medium as of a granular structure with fluid pore filling. Examples of such variations for some geological conditions presumably interesting for seismoprospecting, are presented. It is demonstrated that the nonlinearity parameter may be used in exploration seismology as a characteristic much more sensitive to the changes of the medium structure than conventially measured linear moduli.