A Seismic Event Discrimination System Based on Improved Understanding of Lg from Explosions

72647S03-I Nuclear monitoring requires the identification of small seismic events observed at regional distances. The Lg seismic phase is generally the largest (and often the only well-recorded), and recent research has provided significantly better understanding of the generation of Lg from explosions. However, the new concepts have not yet been fully exploited to improve the discrimination between low magnitude explosions and earthquakes in geologically distinct regions. This project will use sonograms and characteristics of Lg wavetrains to provide promising regional discriminants. In Phase I, multivariate techniques will be used to analyze explosion and earthquake data from several regions of the world. Phase I will result in prototype software that incorporates the use of sonograms and pattern recognition techniques. Phase II will determine the most robust discriminants and develop a system that provides automated identification of small seismic events. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: The commercial product should be an automated, source discrimination system for small seismic events. It would enhance nuclear monitoring capabilities, especially in uncalibrated regions with no prior known seismic events.