Shallow-Depth Seismic Refraction Studies Near the Norman, Oklahoma, Landfill

By Michael H. Powers and Wilfred P. Hasbrouck

ABSTRACT

Seismic refraction surveys were performed near the Norman, Oklahoma, landfill to determine the depth to bedrock between the landfill and the Canadian River. For two lines, one short and one longer, both compressional wave data and shear wave data were acquired. Because the compressional wave velocities are strongly influenced by the variable saturation of sand, clay, and gravel in the unconsolidated sediments, and shear wave velocities are not influenced by these features, the shear wave data lead to much more accurate models of the bedrock interface.