Abstract

Multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW) is widely used for the measurement of shear wave velocity and for geotechnical characterization of near surface material. It is also used for the evaluation of material properties, and material boundaries to identify different lithological units. Multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW) was recently carried out in Zaria, with the aim of evaluating the property of material that constitutes the Zaria batholiths. The outcome of this research will be very useful both for future site assessment and infrastructural development. In a bid to achieve this, profiling seismic method was adopted, which make use of the common mid-point (CMP). The study revealed that the shear wave velocity (Vs) models showed a general increase of velocity with depth. The Vs velocities ranges between 200 m/s to 4000 m/s, with the lowest velocity occurring in regions with very thick overburden cover, and the highest velocity values occurring within the vicinity of massive granitic outcrops. The contoured map and 3D shear wave velocity model, confirm that the Southern part of the survey area that is mainly characterize of  granitic outcrop has relatively higher Vs velocity values than the Northern part that is characterize with exposed gneisses and thick overburden. These results therefore point to the fact that, frequency dependent properties of surface waves can be effectively utilized for imaging the shallow subsurface structure that is vital for site characterization and infrastructural development.