Finite element modeling of SHTE and PSVTM electroseismics

This work presents a numerical methodology to simulate the physical phenomena in which there is conversion between electromagnetic and mechanical (kinetic) energy. The electroseismic equations linking the diffusive electromagnetic and seismic wavefields are solved using the finite element method. The subsurface is modeled as a 2D fluid-saturated layered porous medium. It is illuminated by two different kinds of electromagnetic sources, one giving rise to transverse electric (TE) fields and the other one to transverse-magnetic (TM) fields; the former are coupled with SH and the latter with PSV mechanical displacements respectively. Examples illustrating the capabilities of the presented methodology, including partially saturated gas regions are presented.

Research highlights
► A numerical methodology to solve electroseismics equations is introduced.
► Working in 2D, both SHTE and PSVTM modes are dealt with.
► Parallel-computing optimized iterative domain decomposed FEM techniques are used.
► Algorithms provide solutions according to expected physical behaviour.
► They can be used as a modeling tool in electroseismics.