MASW

Characterizing Near-Surface Materials

Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW) is a surface-based seismic method that evaluates how surface waves travel through the ground. The method is used to characterize near-surface material stiffness and layering

Field crew operating seismic equipment and recording surface waves during MASW surveys, using geophones and acquisition systems to measure shear-wave velocity, characterize near-surface stiffness, and map subsurface layering across survey area.
MASW

When Surface Layers Matter

Near-surface conditions can vary significantly across short distances and are often not well defined by surface observations alone. MASW is used where understanding material stiffness and shallow layering supports planning and investigation decisions.

Technician striking ground with hammer source during MASW surveys while geophone array records surface waves to analyze dispersion and estimate shear-wave velocity variations with depth across near-surface profile.
MASW

Surface-Based Seismic Acquisition

Surface waves are generated using a controlled source and recorded by an array of sensors. The recorded wavefield is analyzed to evaluate dispersion behavior, which is used to estimate shear-wave velocity variations with depth.

Survey crew conducting geophysical measurements in a dry, rocky field with equipment and laptops.
MASW

Documented Subsurface Properties

Deliverables include shear-wave velocity profiles and interpreted subsurface models. Results support coordination and planning where near-surface material properties influence subsurface understanding.

MASW

Surface Wave Analysis Basics

These questions explain how MASW surveys are performed and what type of subsurface information the method provides.

MASW evaluates surface wave behavior to estimate shear-wave velocity with depth.

Depth depends on array length, spacing, and site conditions.

Yes. MASW surveys are performed entirely from the surface.

MASW is used when near-surface stiffness and shallow layering are the primary focus.

Loading...