Seismic methods for delineating complex structures in coal seams

Abstract

Summary Seismic methods are becoming more common place in coal seam mining as an accurate and cost effective met hod of imaging the seam structure. Burton Downs colliery in Queensland, Australia is one such mine to take advantage of the seismic method. With no previous seismic work done in the area, reverse vertical seismic profiling (RVSP) and two-dimensional (2-D) surveys were initially shot. RVSP results showed that the seismic method was viable, imaging the coal seam of interest (VSP to CDP mapping) and provided acquisition parameters for the 2-D surveys. The 2-D lines gave high-resolution images of the coal seams across the mine area, and showed a complex faulting system which included low-angle reverse faulting and normal faulting. The success of the 2-D profiles prompted the acquisition of a three-dimensional (3-D) survey in the northern (Kerlong) area of the mine. After processing the 3-D depth volume, a much more complete structural interpretation could be made.