Applying of High-Resolution Geophysical Techniques for Drainage Investigations at El-Basateen Cemetery Area, Cairo, Egypt

Abstract

Due to the collapse of some cemetery in Basateen area, South of Cairo, this paper presents the application of geoelectrical resistivity sounding and imaging, as well as ground penetrating radar techniques for outlining the reasons and the presence of draining water and groundwater at the investigated area. A Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) survey was performed at 3 points through the studied site to investigate the vertical extent of the subsurface sequence and the saturation levels. A total of 9 Dipole-Dipole imaging profiles were surveyed to determine the lateral distribution of saturation of drain water and infiltrated groundwater, and a total of 6 GPR profiles with 100- and 200- MHz antennae were surveyed to evaluate and determine the depth and the degree of saturation of the subsurface layer/s. The qualitative and quantitative interpretation of the acquired VES's and dipole-dipole imaging profiles showing easily the levels of saturations at the studied site. From the interpretation of GPR profiles, it was possible to locate and determine the saturated zones and the level of the groundwater through the area. The radar signals are penetrated enough and enabled the identification of the subsurface reflectors. The results of GPR, VES's and Resistivity imaging showed a good agreement. The integrated interpretations were verified by local geology and information from several bores. Also, the study was supported by a chemical analysis from the drain water and Ein El-Seera spring (close to studied site), to determine the main source of the drain and infiltrated water at the studied site.