High-Frequency Observations of Signals and Noise Near RSON: Implications for the Discrimination of Ripple-Fired Mining Blasts

摘要

Discrimination of large chemical explosions from possible clandestine nuclear tests is a significant issue for seismic verification. Unless discrimination is possible, the numerous mining blasts within the USSR would give ample opportunity for concealing a clandestine test. Evernden et al. (1986) advocate high frequencies as a means to detect these clandestine tests; however, mining blasts must still give a unique signature for their discrimination. Specific conditions are also necessary for high-frequency verification: low attenuation and quiet seismic stations are among the most important. In this study we address these problems under conditions representing a best case scenerio. During the summer of 1985, LLNL deployed a regional array and high-frequency station near RSON (Red Lake, Ontario, Canada) to study regional seismic signals at a low-noise site with excellent propagation characteristics, the continental shield. One objective was to evaluate the performance of regional seismic arrays and high-frequency stations in this geological environment. Using high-frequency data from mining blasts within the Masabi Iron Range in northern Minnesota (distance of 400 km), we observed the high-frequency P/sub n/ phase of ripple-fired blasts, modelled their source properties, and evaluated a possible discriminant for chemical explosions. This study suggests the existence of a distinctive signature for large chemical explosions: strong, high-frequency spectral peaks in the P spectra introduced by delay shooting or ripple-firing. Its application depends, however, on a frequency band extending to at least 35 Hz at regional distances and predictably quiet seismic sites. (ERA citation 12:033649)