Definition
What this method is
MASW is a surface-wave seismic method used to estimate shear-wave velocity variation with depth.
Often bundled with seismic refraction when the project needs both stiffness context and layer-depth interpretation.
Seismic Surveys
MASW Survey
Often bundled with seismic refraction when the project needs both stiffness context and layer-depth interpretation.
How It Works
From field measurement to interpreted model
- 1Controlled sources generate surface waves along a survey line.
- 2Receiver arrays record dispersion response at different frequencies.
- 3Processing converts the dispersion data into a shear-wave velocity profile for interpretation.
When to Use
Best-fit conditions for this method
- Vs profiling and site classification
- Projects that need stiffness trends for design or screening
- Combination programs with refraction or borehole control
What It Can Help Identify
Subsurface features and signals
- Shear-wave velocity trends
- Stiffness changes with depth
- Site-class indicators and near-surface variability
Deliverables
What you receive
- Velocity profile summary
- Array geometry and QC notes
- Interpretation report for design teams
Typical Outputs
What the data looks like
- Vs profiles
- Dispersion curves
- Site-class notes
Applications
Common applications in the Philippines
Infrastructure and geotechnical investigations
Seismic site characterization
Renewable-energy pad and corridor studies
Method Limitations
What this method cannot do alone
- Requires quality acquisition geometry, sufficient line access, and noise management.
Geophysical results are interpreted models based on measured physical property contrasts. Results should be correlated with boreholes, test pits, drilling, geological mapping, laboratory data, or other direct investigation methods where required.
Related Services
Methods and applications that work together
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can MASW be used on its own for design decisions?
MASW is useful for profiling shear-wave velocity, but design-critical work is usually strengthened by refraction, drilling, or other direct checks.
What does MASW help estimate?
It helps estimate shear-wave velocity trends, site class indicators, and stiffness variation with depth.
When is MASW better than a simple depth-to-rock survey?
MASW is better when the project needs stiffness information, not just a rockhead estimate, such as for seismic design or ground-response screening.
Get in touch
Request MASW scope
Provide your target depth, line access constraints, and design objective so we can define the MASW layout.