Engineering-geological conditions at the Araks hydroengineering complex

Abstract

1. Investigations along the boundary sector of the Araks have made it possible to put forward a scheme of demarcation into engineering-geological zones. Against the background of three large geotectonic zones of broad scale, there have been distinguished eight engineering-geological regions, enabling 12 hydroengineering and one water-supply complex to be effectively sited. 2. The primary structures to be built are the Araks hydroengineering complex and the Mil'-Mugansk watersupply dam, the Khudaferin hydroengineering complex being next in order of priority. 3. By comparing different versions, subsequent research made it possible to select the optimal sitings of the Araks hydroengineering complex and the Mil'-Mugansk dam. 4. The Araks hydroengineering complex is located above the entrance to the Negram gorge in favorable topographic but fairly complex engineering-geological conditions. The latter are due to the high seismic activity and the presence nearby of large faults containing corrosive waters linked with deep-seated fault zones. 5. An important saving in the construction costs may be obtained by the availability of various local structural materials located under easy mining conditions.