Seismic refraction assessment for excavatability and volume estimation in Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia

Abstract

Quarry and mining management seek to understand ground excavatability. With effective assessment, earthwork could be planned to reduce unnecessary expenditure. Considering this, a study was conducted at Kota Tinggi district (Johor) to investigate the ground subsurface for excavation assessment prior to developing a quarry. Seismic refraction method was employed using 2-D tomography technique, where its output was validated using existing borehole, geological data and previous research works to achieve a comprehensive interpretation. The result shows that the area consists of three geological layers with velocity of 647–1570 m/s (1st layer), 1570–2506 m/s (2nd layer), and 2506–3647 m/s (bedrock). The two upper layers are rippable while the third layer is non-rippable. The mechanical excavation limit was estimated to be 1.4 million m3 and 0.5 million m3 for the 1st and 2nd layer respectively based on seismic velocity value. This indirect assessment method is fast and cost-effective in estimating the earthwork required for quarry and mining management.