3D seismic measurements in the Asse region
With the help of seismics it is possible to present a detailed, three-dimensional image of the underground structure and to examine it from the surface.
- Date
- 06/12/2012
3D seismic measurements can help learn more about the geological structure of Asse
To gain more detailed knowledge of the structure and condition of the underground (geological structure) in the surrounding overburden of the Asse mine, the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS) plans to carry out three-dimensional (3D) seismic measurements in the Asse region.
Test measurement
Practical plans carried out for this purpose have shown that it is unclear whether and how exactly 3D seismics can provide a map of the steeply inclined southern flank of the Asse saddle. This question and the question of the optimum measurement configuration need to be clarified at first in a test measurement.
The test measurement is carried out by the Asse-GmbH on behalf of the BfS. The measurements were tendered by the Asse-GmbH in spring of 2012; meanwhile order to carry out these works has been placed.
Objective and extent of the test measurement
A test measurement will probably take place in early 2013 and is to show
- How the mapping capability of the steeply inclining southern flank by this procedure has to be evaluated and
- whether reliable results to improve the geological state of knowledge can be expected.
The test measurement also serves to optimise the measurement parameters for the main measurement to be carried out later on.
A test measurement is a very small 3D seismic measurement where the same devices are used as in the planned main measurement. The test measurement comprises a 6 km long two-dimensional (2D) profile and a 1200 m x 840 m large 3D measuring surface. Measurements will take about 2 weeks.
The exact results of the test measurement are expected for the end of 2013, as the initially gained data needs to be processed and interpreted, which is very time-consuming.
Should it be found out during the test measurement that the 3D seismic measurements provide good results, also in the case of the steeply inclined salt structure as in Asse, the actual main measurement will be carried out.
