Bayesian matched-field inversion for shear and compressional geoacoustic profiles at the New England Mud Patch

This Letter estimates shear and compressional seabed geoacoustic profiles at the New England Mud Patch through trans-dimensional Bayesian inversion of matched-field acoustic data over a 20-2000 Hz bandwidth. Results indicate low shear-wave speeds (∼35 m/s) with relatively small uncertainties over most of the upper mud layer, increasing in underlying transition and sand layers. Compressional parameters, including attenuation, are also well estimated, but shear-wave attenuation is poorly determined. Comparison of inversions with/without shear parameters and consideration of inter-parameter correlations indicate that estimates of compressional parameters are not substantially influenced by shear effects, with the possible exception of compressional-wave attenuation in the sand layer.