Shear wave speed inversions using scholte wave dispersion

Shear speeds in semi-consolidated and consolidated shallow water sediments can significantly impact compressional wave attenuation and arrival times of acoustic normal modes. In addition, shear properties of sediments are directly related to the strength of the sediments in geotechnical applications. All of these factors emphasize the importance of estimating shear speeds in shallow water sediments. One of the most promising approaches to estimate shear speed is to invert the shear speed profile using the dispersion of interface waves (Scholte waves). The propagation speed and attenuation of the Scholte wave are closely related to shear-wave speed and attenuation over a depth of 1-2 wavelengths into the seabed. Data from the tests conducted in Narragansett Bay and off Block Island in water depths ranging from 10 m to 25 m using the shear measurement system, developed at the University of Rhode Island, will be presented. Combustive Sound Source (CSS) was be used to generate interface waves during these tes...