Use Of The Seismo-Electric Effect In Engineering Problems

The seismo-electric effect is observed as the development of<br>potential between two points in a rock subjected to elastic<br>deformation. This effect is a function of physical properties<br>which are parameters desired in the collection of geotechnical<br>data relevant to the estimation of the effects of geologic site<br>conditions on the level of ground shaking. Standard, high<br>resolution reflection or refraction seismic measurement of both<br>shear and compressional waves provide values of elastic moduli.<br>Borehole information can be added to supplement these data.<br>These measurements, by their nature, are directionally dependent.<br>Of interest to the geotechnical engineer evaluating geologic site<br>conditions are also values of porosity, permeability, fluid<br>saturation, and fluid salinity. Seismo-electric measurements<br>could yield this information in situ and at the same time as the<br>standard seismic measurement. The seismo-electric effect is not<br>directionally dependent and will, therefore, yield information on<br>the bulk properties of the rock.