Geological and Structural Interpretation of the Beeston Cave, Bradost Anticline, NE Iraq

Abstract

A geological field survey was conducted in Soran District in the Beeston cave located in the Bradost Anticline, northeastern Iraq. The presence of an upper hole in the ceiling of the cave with a diameter of about 3 meters and a main gap dimension is up to 40 x 22 m was found through that. ‎ In combination with an analysis of the remote sensing data, a detailed geological survey of the caves with the surrounding areas and an engineering survey were carried out. The geological survey included the stratigraphic sequence of the area between the lowest and highest levels in the study area. It also contains setting and geotechnical parameters for bedding planes and discontinuities. The engineering survey included the measurement of cave dimensions, the distribution of stalactites and stalagmites, and the height of weathering terraces. ‎‎An analysis of engineering and geological data estimated the approximate timespan of cave formation, and the scenario for cave formation was prepared by adding remote sensing data that could be used in the future to determine other areas where such a cave could be formed. The study reveals the scenario of the cave formation, estimates the age of the cave, and the formation timespan of the cave creation.