Simultaneous inversion of layered velocity and density profiles using Direct Waveform Inversion (DWI): 1D case

Abstract: We propose and test the Direct Waveform Inversion (DWI) scheme to simultaneously invert for layered velocity and density profiles, using reflection seismic waveforms recorded on the surface. The recorded data include primary reflections and interbed multiples. DWI is implemented in the time-space domain. By explicitly enforcing the wavefield time-space causality, DWI can recursively determine the subsurface seismic structure in a local fashion for both sharp interfaces as well as the properties of the layers, from shallow to deep depths. DWI is different from the layer stripping methods in the frequency domain. By not requiring a global initial model, DWI avoids many nonlinear optimization problems, such as the local minima and the need for an accurate initial model in most full waveform inversion schemes. Using two numerical tests here, we demonstrate that the DWI scheme for multi-parameter seismic inversion for velocity and density of layered media, using plane waves of different incident angles. This represents a significant step comparing with the previous DWI only inverting for the velocity.