Seismic Interferometry for Single-Channel Data: A Promising Approach for Improved Offshore Wind Farm Evaluation

Single-channel seismic (SCS) methods play a crucial role in offshore wind farm assessments, offering rapid and continuous imaging of the subsurface. Conventional SCS methods often fall short in resolution and signal completeness, leading to potential misinterpretations of geological structures. In this study, we propose the application of seismic interferometry as a powerful tool to address these challenges by utilizing multiple reflections that are usually considered as noise. First, we demonstrate the feasibility of using seismic interferometry to approximate the primary wavefield. Then, we evaluate a series of seismic interferometry applied in SCS data, including cross-correlation, deconvolution, and cross-coherence, and determine the most appropriate one for our purpose. Finally, by comparing and analyzing the differences in amplitude, continuity, time–frequency properties, etc., between conventional primary wavefield information and reconstructed primary wavefield information by seismic interferometry, it is proved that incorporating multiples as supplementary information through seismic interferometry significantly enhances data reliability and resolution. The introduction of seismic interferometry provides a more detailed and accurate geological assessment crucial for optimal site selection in offshore wind farm development.