We introduce a passive noise suppression technique, based on the τ− p transform. In the τ−
p domain, one can separate microseismic events from surface noise based on distinct
characteristics that are not visible in the time-offset domain. By applying the inverse τ− p
transform to the separated microseismic event, we suppress the surface noise in the data.
Our technique significantly improves the signal-to-noise ratios of the microseismic events
and is superior to existing techniques for passive noise suppression in the sense that it …

Surface passive seismic methods are receiving increased attention for monitoring changes
in reservoirs during the production of unconventional oil and gas. However, in passive
seismic data the strong cultural and ambient noise (mainly surface-waves) decreases the
effectiveness of these techniques. Hence, suppression of surface-waves is a critical step in
surface microseismic monitoring. We apply a noise suppression technique, based on the tp
transform, to a surface passive seismic dataset recorded over a Barnett Shale reservoir …