Approaches to Engineering Geocryological Zonation of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)

Abstract

This paper describes the engineering geocryological zoning of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) which was performed based on analysis of the main controlling factors and their cartographic generalization. Several schematic maps were compiled depicting topography (landforms), geocryological processes, soils and rocks, permafrost conditions and seismicity. The types of engineering geocryological conditions were assessed and scored to classify areas by suitability for engineering. The paper begins with a brief Introduction which clarifies the objectives and importance of the research. The Methods section describes the ranking of control factors adopted for the convenience of zonation. The next section discusses the factors controlling engineering geocryological conditions in Sakha (Yakutia). The Results and Discussion section describes the series of maps produced comprising: a map of morphostructural zonation, a zonation map of geocryological processes intensity, a zonation map of ground and permafrost conditions, a map of seismic zonation. It also presents an integrated analysis of the controlling factors and concludes that the Coastal Lowlands and Shallow Seashelf Region is most challenging for engineering. For further refinement of engineering conditions, it seems advisable to prepare permafrost-landscape, geomorphological and other regional maps that would be useful for assessing economic feasibility of projected developments in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).