Maximizing resolution: Broadband processing for UHR seismic diffraction imaging in offshore windfarm site investigation

In this study, we explored the resolving potential of UHR seismic data through the integration of broadband processing with a modern diffraction imaging workflow to improve temporal as well as lateral spatial resolution. The processed data were subjected to deghosting and wave field separation as a prerequisite for diffraction imaging. The conducted work demonstrates the adaptation of broadband processing to be advantageous for diffraction processing and imaging. The results of UHR broadband processing combined with diffraction processing exhibited enhanced resolution of diffracted wave fields, and increased resolution in focused events when compared to the nonbroadband approach. This supports an improved identification and imaging of small-scale structural features. The broadband diffraction spectrum displayed a considerably wider bandwidth than the conventional diffracted wave field, highlighting the efficacy of the proposed approach for diffraction imaging. The study indicates the utilization of UHR broadband diffraction data to obtain additional information on small-scale heterogeneities in the subsurface. That has notable benefits for investigating complex geological settings in offshore site characterization for windfarm development.