SS-wave reflections from P-wave sources in azimuthally anisotropic media

Early theoretical and field studies showed that P-wave sources generate a substantial amount of shearwave energy for pure-mode (SS-wave) exploration seismology. SV-waves are created in isotropic or VTI (vertical transversely isotropic) media by either buried explosives or surface vibrator and weight drop sources. These methods have not been embraced by our industry; however, benefits could include shallow S-wave velocity model building to help PS-wave processing (CMP processing is easier), and S-wave surface-consistent residual statics.