Structure of the Padul-Nigüelas Basin (S Spain) from H/V Ratios of Ambient Noise: Application of the Method to Study Peat and Coarse Sediments

This paper presents the results of the application of a technique of geophysical surveying based on resonance frequency of materials, in a small basin within the Internal Zones of the Betic Cordillera (southern Spain). The frequencies determined have enabled the main features of the basin’s structure to be delineated, clearly identifying its asymmetry due to variations in the position of the rigid basement in different sectors. The results show that this method does not guarantee a perfect identification of coarse sediments, unless these overlie substantial more rigid materials. On the other hand, the same method was very effective for studying very soft sediments (peat), and it was possible to establish a quantitative relationship for determining the thickness of these sediments based on their resonance frequency. This relationship was then used to map peat thickness in the basin. The results have been compared with gravity studies and mechanical drillings undertaken in the region.