Development of tomographic systems for mining, mineral exploration and environmental purposes

Abstract

A research project was carried out to develop and test a prototype seismic tomographic system suitable for use in the exploration, mining and civil engineering industries. Tomographic techniques are attractive because they can provide information from the unknown areas between drill-holes and are nondestructive, which is particularly important for civil engineering and radioactive waste disposal projects. The starting point was the SEAMEX-Compact seismic system, developed in 1991 for use in the coal industry, which had limited capabilities. Prototype development involved the redesign of existing seismic systems, development and assembly of compact units and production of new acquisition and control software. Emphasis was placed on high dynamic range and control mechanisms. The prototype system was named SUMMIT-Compact and the final version is much advanced from the SEAMEX system.