Bayesian moment tensor inversion and uncertainty quantification for induced seismicity - Uncertainties from both the location and velocity model

In many oil/gas fields and hydrofracking processes induced earthquakes result from fluid extraction or injection. The locations and source mechanisms of these earthquakes provide valuable information about the reservoirs. Analysis of induced seismic events has mostly assumed a double-couple source mechanism. However, recent studies have shown a non-negligible percentage of non-double-couple components of source moment tensors in hydraulic fracturing events. Without uncertainty quantification of the moment tensor solution, it is difficult to determine the reliability of these source models. This study develops a Bayesian method to perform waveform-based full moment tensor inversion and uncertainty quantification for the induced seismic events. We conduct tests with synthetic events to validate the method, and then apply our Bayesian inversion approach to real induced seismicity events. © 2021 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.