The shallow structure of the Roggenplaat (The Netherlands) as deduced from High-resolution multi-channel seismic profiling

Abstract

High-resolution seismic profiling requires special instrumentation and special acquisition techniques, with a high-frequency source being the key factor. In a feasability study on the Roggenplaat, a tidal flat in the mouth of the Oosterschelde (SW Netherlands), the CDP-method was applied using standard recording equipment together with a specially developed weight-drop unit. On areas with a high clay content results were obtained which were, in principle, good enough for a detailed investigation of the upper 120 m. However, due to the lack of well control in the area of investigation, only two major interfaces could be identified with some confidence. The registration techniques used can be easily improved by using digital enhancement seismographs with digital recording on magnetic tape. However, the resolution obtained (about 2-3 m) can be repeated only in areas where the surface conditions are comparable to those of the survey area on the Roggenplaat: no weathered layer, high clay content, and a nearly complete water saturation.