Geology: "Geophysical Wave Propagation Calculation Using Multiphysics"
Dr. S.P. Yushanov, Dr. J.S. Crompton, and Dr. K.C. Koppenhoefer, ACES of Columbus, LLC, Columbus, OH, USA
The propagation of shear (S) and compression (P) waves within the earth represents a critically important phenomenon for geologists. For many years, geologists have developed specialized computational programs to calculate wave propagation within complex geophysical regions. These programs have been instrumental in determining the location and characteristics of natural phenomena (e.g., earthquakes) and man-made activity (e.g., nuclear-blast tests).
Since these waves typically travel long distances prior to detection, these programs typically require large computational models and significant computational resources. Newer applications for this technology include border security and exploration for natural resources. The length scales of these applications are much smaller than for typical applications. Thus, the P and S waves decay less than in applications with longer length scales and therefore cannot be ignored. As these industries apply existing technology to meet today’s challenges, they are finding that new methods of solving these problems have significant advantages over traditional methods.