Abstract:

Accurate identification of bedrock fractures is important in characterizing subsurface fluid migration and constraining local tectonic stress histories. Conventional methods to acquire information include analysis of outcrop exposures and borehole logs. These methods are invasive and can be costly or unavailable. Full-resolution recording of ground penetrating radar (GPR) at multiple polarizations (MP) has proven a suitable tool to non-invasively image bedrock fractures at various orientations. This research uses full-resolution MP GPR recording to non-invasively image bedrock fractures at a test site in northern New York State. This recording method differs from convention by producing data sets exhibiting little spatial aliasing requiring minimal interpolation between parallel profiles. Research presented here examines full-resolution GPR recording of bedrock fractures by identifying diffraction events hypothesized to occur when a radar signal interacts with fracture intersections. Results indicate full-resolution MP recording (EH, EV, and cross-polarization) improves fracture network interpretations.