Zero impact seismic technology in the Rocky Mountains

Article • April 1, 2021

Seismic technology provider Stryde, through ongoing work with geophysical technology and data acquisition company Explor, has finalised a seismic imaging trial for a project on mountainous terrain in the Rocky Mountains of Canada.

Mountains present a significant challenge for any sector seeking to map the subsurface to determine the presence and prevalence of resources, from mining and water management to energy.

The steepness and narrowness of mountain paths present a significant health and safety risk and can prevent large teams or vehicles from accessing different locations of the site, in some cases necessitating the use of helicopters to transport equipment, says Stryde.

However, helicopters present not only a significant expense and source of carbon emissions, but a considerable health and safety risk.Therefore, any technology used in these locations must require the least intervention and enable independent operation, states Stryde.

The mountainous area imaged by Explor was particularly inaccessible, reaching over 2 000 m in height, with the steepest slope gradients exceeding 40°. The steep slopes and the presence of large, unstable boulder fields in this area meant that the only way to deploy nodes was on foot.

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