Keywords
reservoir exploration
geotechnics
plane waves
fluid inclusion
seismic waves
How to Cite
Abstract
This experimental research examines the effect of fluid inclusions (water, air and oil) on seismic wave propagation through a test bed loaded with highly compressible clay soil designed to replicate common seismic frequency parameters. The results demonstrate that fluids significantly change propagation characteristics: reducing wave velocity due to changes in medium stiffness while amplifying signal peaks, particularly with oil inclusions. The research reveals distinctive spectral patterns for each different fluid and helps to detect correlations between the contained fluid properties and wave propagation parameters. The test model developed here represents a worthwhile point of reference for evaluating seismic behavior of saturated soils, which provides practical applications for the assessment of ground stability within seismic zones and the characterization of hydrocarbon reservoirs, with particular relevance for those areas of high groundwater saturation. The results highlight the importance of accounting for fluid inclusions in predictive models for geotechnical risk assessment and geophysical exploration.
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