Thanks to present day computer technology, the acquisition and processing of large data volumes can now be carried out at a fraction of the costs of only a few years ago.

The reflection seismic method, being the most powerful geophysical prospecting tool, owes its superior position to these advances in the information sector. The method was developed in the hydrocarbon exploration industry where its application is instrumental in the search for new oil and gas reserves.

In contrast to other geophysical disciplines, reflection seismic profiling is the only probing tool capable of directly imaging boundaries in accordance to their depths. As a consequence, this results in a more objective geological interpretation than is possible with the techniques based on potential field surveying.

Since 1990 reflection seismic method, in combination with high resolution seismic refraction prospecting, has been successfully adapted to the exacting needs of engineering geology. Today, seismic surveying plays an increasingly important role in a modern site investigation programs.

High resolution seismic surveying is an indispensible tool in engineering geology and in hydrogeology as X-ray and ultrasonic examinations are in the medical profession.

Example of a reflection seismic section recorded for mapping the internal structures of the deposits across an alluvial plain:

Ground water I: Reflection seismic mapping of the bedrock surface and differentiation of the Quarternary infill across an alluvial plain. Target depth: until 1000 m Click here for further details.