Advanced nonlinear signal processing tools for use with high-resolution seismic reflection and ground-penetrating radar data

A recent engineering tool known as the empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is adapted for geophysical application to seismic reflection and ground-penetrating radar data. A thorough methodology is provided and applied to multiple data sets. The EMD and associated Hilbert-Huang transform are used to demonstrate the strengths of the technique over conventional signal processing. The technique is then applied to hydrogeophysical parameter estimation and provides significant stability during computation of dielectric constants. Finally, the EMD is further adapted and incorporated into a new and powerful processing utility that is highly effective at improving seismic reflection data in a complex hydrocarbon system containing gas hydrates. Data quality exceeds expectations for illustrating well-known and poorly understood processes in such environments, thus advancing the technique as a significant application for geophysical signal processing.