Geophysical research of underground hydraulic structures, old Glubochinsky water tunnel case study

Abstract

Research objective is to study the features of geophysical fields and parameters in the area of the artificial underground water tunnel and estimate the capabilities of geophysical methods of identifying hidden underground industrial facilities. Methods of research. Measurements of self-potential signals (SP) were carried out using nonpolarizing electrodes and an electrical exploration receiver. The magnetic exploration was carried out by a proton magnetometer. Electrotomography was carried out using multielectrode electrical survey equipment with a Schlumberger symmetrical scheme of surveys. The microseismic background was recorded using an autonomous seismic station. The georadar survey was carried out using the SIR-3000 ground penetrating radar and antennas with the frequencies of 100 MHz and 270 MHz. Results. Based on the survey results, graphs of magnetic and self-potential fields, electrotomographic and microseismic sections, and radarogram were built on the research profile. The research has shown different levels of the magnetic field and the SP in the area of volcanic rocks and dikes of gabbro-dolerites occurrence. A significant increase in microseismic noise was observed with an increase in the weathering crust thickness. A local decrease in the SP potential, abnormally high values of specific electrical resistivity and intensive reflections of radio waves from the tunnel top were recorded above the underground water tunnel. Conclusions. Qualitative and quantitative geophysical characteristics were obtained in the area of the old underground water tunnel. The research showed different levels of the magnetic field and spontaneous polarization potentials in the occurrence area of rocks of different composition. A significant increase in microseismic noise was recorded with an increase in the weathering crust thickness. Geophysical signs of the boundaries between geological structures and artificial underground objects are revealed. The exact position and depth of the old underground tunnel of Glubochinsky hydraulic structures was determined.