Assessment of vibroseis-induced ground vibrations near earthquake-damaged structures: effects of distance and topography in an urban environment

Vibroseis technology is widely used in hydrocarbon exploration and urban geophysical investigations because it provides a controlled seismic source with generally lower environmental disturbance than explosive seismic sources. However, concerns remain regarding the potential effects of Vibroseis-induced vibrations on nearby structures, particularly in post-earthquake urban environments containing damaged or structurally vulnerable buildings. This study evaluated ground-vibration and air-shock levels generated during a three-dimensional hydrocarbon exploration survey conducted on the Dicle University campus in Diyarbakır, Türkiye, following the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes. Ground-vibration and air-shock measurements were performed using an Instantel Minimate Plus monitoring system along three monitoring lines representing horizontal, upslope, and downslope topographic settings. A total of 38 Vibroseis activations were monitored under two operating modes corresponding to drive levels of 50% and 75%. Peak particle velocity (PPV), dominant frequency, air-shock were evaluated with respect to source-to-receiver distance, operating mode, and topographic setting. Descriptive statistical analyses and power-law regression modelling were also used to characterize vibration levels and quantify PPV attenuation. The measured vibration levels were evaluated according to the Turkish Regulation on the Assessment and Management of Environmental Noise, DIN 4150-3, and USBM RI 8507 criteria. The maximum recorded PPV was 5.715 mm/s at a source-to-receiver distance of 20 m during High Mode operation, while dominant frequencies ranged between approximately 18 and 80 Hz. Air-shock levels ranged from 91.48 to 130.52 dBL. PPV decreased progressively with increasing distance under both operating modes, and the highest vibration levels were generally recorded along the upslope monitoring line, indicating that site-specific conditions influenced vibration propagation and attenuation. Power-law regression models provided good fits to the recorded attenuation trends, with coefficients of determination (R 2 ) ranging from 0.865 to 0.994. All recorded vibration levels remained below the limits specified by the Turkish Regulation, DIN 4150-3, and USBM RI 8507. Under the investigated geological and operational conditions, the results indicate a low likelihood of vibration-induced structural damage, while recognizing that the measurements represent free-field ground motion rather than direct structural response. The derived site-specific attenuation relationships may provide practical field-based guidance for vibration prediction, seismic survey planning, and risk assessment in comparable post-earthquake urban environments.