Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW)

This method allows us to obtain information on terrain stratigraphy from data obtained by hitting the ground and generating superficial seismic waves. MASW is a non destructive method from which we can obtain subsurface stratigraphy without altering terrain, this method allows to gather very valuable information at lower cost when comparing to other seismic refraction methods. This technique allows us to know different properties of subsurface such as Young modulus, Poisson modulus, Shear modulus and Atterberg limits. Also MASW allows is to detect foundation depth, useful in construction of dams and hydroelectric powerplants. 

Advantages to MASW
-Determining velocity of S waves with great precision, with a single trigger, saving time and labor.
-Detection of low velocity and low density layers, hard to observe in traditional seismic refraction methods.
-Using MASW in conjunction with micro seismics allows determination of all dynamic terrain modules, needed for geotechnical studies.