A review of the microtremor horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio (MHVSR) method

The single-station microtremor horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio (MHVSR) method was initially proposed to retrieve the site amplification function and its resonance frequencies produced by unconsolidated sediments overlying high-velocity bedrock. Presently, MHVSR measurements are predominantly c...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of seismology 2022-08, Vol.26 (4), p.653-685
Main Authors: Molnar, S., Sirohey, A., Assaf, J., Bard, P.-Y., Castellaro, S., Cornou, C., Cox, B., Guillier, B., Hassani, B., Kawase, H., Matsushima, S., Sánchez-Sesma, F. J., Yong, A.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Bedrock
COVID-19
Data acquisition
Earth and Environmental Science
Earth Sciences
Earthquakes
Geophysics/Geodesy
Geotechnical Engineering & Applied Earth Sciences
Hydrogeology
Methods
Original
Original Article
Sediments
Seismic activity
Seismology
Standardization
Structural Geology
Viscoelasticity
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Summary:The single-station microtremor horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio (MHVSR) method was initially proposed to retrieve the site amplification function and its resonance frequencies produced by unconsolidated sediments overlying high-velocity bedrock. Presently, MHVSR measurements are predominantly conducted to obtain an estimate of the fundamental site frequency at sites where a strong subsurface impedance contrast exists. Of the earthquake site characterization methods presented in this special issue, the MHVSR method is the furthest behind in terms of consensus towards standardized guidelines and commercial use. The greatest challenges to an international standardization of MHVSR acquisition and analysis are (1) the what — the underlying composition of the microtremor wavefield is site-dependent, and thus, the appropriate theoretical (forward) model for inversion is still debated; and (2) the how — many factors and options are involved in the data acquisition, processing, and interpretation stages. This paper reviews briefly a historical development of the MHVSR technique and the physical basis of an MHVSR (the what ). We then summarize recommendations for MHVSR acquisition and analysis (the how ). Specific sections address MHVSR interpretation and uncertainty assessment.
ISSN:1383-4649
1573-157X
DOI:10.1007/s10950-021-10062-9