Patent ID: 6776256
Filing Date: 2004-08-17
Classification: G01V

Abstract:
A method of generating seismic waves in a rock mass surrounding a well, the method comprising the steps of:(a) providing a packer, a fluid withdrawal line, and a detonation transmission line, wherein the packer is located below a weathering zone and defines an upper limit of a working volume within the well, the fluid withdrawal line is adapted to withdraw fluid from the working volume, and the detonation transmission line terminates at one end in the working volume; and (b) providing an air-fuel mixture in the working volume, and causing a priming detonation at a second end of the transmission line to detonate the air-fuel mixture in the working volume and thereby generate seismic waves, combustion products of the detonation of the air-fuel mixture being withdrawn from the working volume via the fluid withdrawal line.