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Detecting Subsurface Mining Activity using Cross-Correlation and Local Surface Arrays

Detecting subsurface human and industrial activity from surface seismic observations remains a challenging task. Using data from two mines, the Redmond Salt Mine in central Utah and the Pleasant Gap Limestone Mine in central Pennsylvania, we test the extent to which we can identify, locate, and distinguish different human-generated seismic signals over different mining subsurface structures and local geologies. The Redmond Mine was instrumented with a local surface array of 15 nodal seismometers over one month in 2018. The Pleasant Gap Mine was instrumented with over 50 surface nodal seismometers over two month-long periods, one in the spring and another in the fall of 2023. Because many anthropogenic signals are persistent, rather than impulsive, we employ cross-correlation methods to characterize and track these persistent signals over time. To locate the cross-correlation signals, we implemented both array-based backprojection and single-station polarization methods. However, we also observe impulsive signals related to blasting which we locate with traditional seismic methods. In general, we find that anthropogenic signals at these mines are often periodic, distinct in frequency, characterized by their relative time of occurrence, and whether the source location is stable. Between the two operations, we compare the effects of site geology and structure, local noise levels, the density of observations, and proximity to presumed sources on the ability to understand these anthropogenic signals.

SNL is managed and operated by NTESS under DOE NNSA contract DE-NA0003525.

Session: Advancements in Forensic Seismology and Explosion Monitoring [Poster Session]

Type: Poster

Room: Exhibit Hall

Date: 5/2/2024

Presentation Time: 08:00 AM (local time)

Presenting Author: David Miller

Student Presenter: No

Additional Authors