A magneto-hydrodynamic seismic source and a method of marine seismic surveying

摘要

A magneto-hydrodynamic seismic source and a method of conducting a survey using a magneto- hydrodynamic seismic source are disclosed. The source comprises a Casing having a central longitudinal axis; a fluid flow channel having a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending from the first end of the fluid 'flow channel to the second end of the fluid flow channel; a plurality of electromagnets arranged along the channel for generating a uniform magnetic field at right angles to the central longitudinal axis of the channel; a first electrode positioned on a first side of the fluid flow channel, the first electrode being positioned opposite a second electrode that is positioned on a second opposing Side Of the fluid flow channel; and, a controllable power source in electrical communication with the first electrode and the second electrode for generating a continuously varying electric field between die first electrode and second electrodes to generate a continuously varying inflow of seawater into the first end of the fluid flow channel with a corresponding continuously varying outflow Of seawater in the form. Of a seismic signal being produced from the second end of the fluid flow channel.