Fresh Bedrock Research Articles

Application of Integrated Geophysical Methods for Site Suitability of Research Infrastructures (RIs) in China

Research Infrastructures (RIs) are essential to achieve excellence in innovative scientific research. However, because of limited land availability and specific geological requirements, evaluating the viability of a site for a new RI can be a challenging task. Stringent safety construction requirements include developing site-specific architectural and geoengineering solutions, minimizing construction disturbances, and reinforcing rock and soil in a timely fashion. For successful development of the RIs in China, such as the Daya Bay Neutrino Laboratory (DBNL) and the China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS), an integrated approach of joint geophysical methods including the electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), controlled-source audio-frequency magneto telluric (CSAMT)), gravity and seismic refraction methods, and geological mapping and surveys were carried out. Geophysical parameters, such as electrical resistivity, density, and seismic velocity, show inverse proportion to the degree of rock fracturing or weathering. The results show that the low values of geophysical parameters suggest the weathered/fractured rock, while high values reveal the fresh bedrock. The Engineering Geological Suitability Index (EGSI) value can represent the individual EGSI values at a constant and summed over varying depths. EGSI methodology is an improvement on the existing siting process and has been applied to CSNS. Our integrated approach provides clearer insight into the subsurface for site suitability of RIs in challenging geological engineering conditions and removes any ambiguity caused by a single geophysical parameter. The obtained geological knowledge of the area not only provides engineers with much-needed information about the construction conditions of a potential site but also gives scientists the opportunity to explore the local geology. In this study, we demonstrate our innovative approach for siting RIs, as demonstrated by the synthetic evaluation of the site location and utilization for two established RIs (DBNL and CSNS).

Geophysical investigation of the Orle River fracture system in Igarra Township, southwestern Nigeria

The subsurface structure and propagation geometry of the fracture system controlling the Orle River Channel in the Igarra Township, Southwestern Nigeria, have been investigated via a multi-method geophysical survey. The goal was to delineate the nature, distribution, and spatial propagation geometry of the fracture system and evaluate its potential to serve as storage and distribution features for groundwater within adjoining areas. 2D electrical resistivity, total field magnetic, and co-planar loop conductivity measurements were collected along four traverses using an ABEM1000 Terrameter unit, a GEMS Magnetometer, and an EM34 Co-planar loop electromagnetic system. Traverses were established to run across and parallel to the river channel. The observed electrical resistivity field data were inverted for subsurface 2D resistivity structure using a commercially available 2.5D finite element modelling inversion software. Magnetic field intensity data and ground conductivity data were presented against station positions. Three subsurface layers were delineated at the survey site; (1) surficial humus-rich and wet top-soil, (2) a thin poorly developed weathering layer, and (3) the fresh bedrock which occurs as relatively shallow levels and often outcrops. The River channel is controlled by multiple fractures usually located at or near the contracts between contrasting rock types. Fracture dip is usually in the northerly direction but conjugates, dipping southwards also occur in the most northerly extremes of the imaged fracture system. Upstream the fracture path is wider and along with the imaged overburden, isjuxtaposed northwards of the channel axis suggesting a much broader river channel in the geologic past. Low aperture fractures imaged tangential to channel axis likely serve to funnel surface and groundwater from the channels to the surrounding areas. Where such low aperture fractures can be delineated, they offer the best chances of groundwater abstraction within adjoining areas, particularly during the dry season.

Investigation of Dam Integrity from Electrical Resistivity Methods: A Case of Erelu Dam, Southwestern Nigeria

DOI:10.17014/ijog.8.2.265-274Erelu dam is geologically within the Precambrian Basement Complex of southwestern Nigeria, which serves a principal source of water supply to an increasing population; currently at about 779,318. In an attempt to investigate the integrity of the dam, horizontal resistivity profiling (HRP) of dipole-dipole and Schlumberger’s vertical electrical sounding (VES) approaches were explored to delineate the lithologic layers, facies, and geologic structures in the subsurface of the dam. The HRP revealed changes in subsurface conductivity that depicts lateritic hard pan and saturated rock blankets at shallow depth. The vertical geo-electric section delineated predominant four lithologic units. The regolith is 7 m thick and constitutes the vertical rock fill impervious cores of the dam, which is underlained by saprolitic and fresh bedrock. The region of weathered rock depression coincided the shallow saturated anomalous zone and showed surface manifestation of fractured or unconsolidated terrain within the embankment. The fracture serves as conduit for seepage which could be responsible for possible loss in the reservoir water and increases its susceptibility to failure. It is recommended to keep monitoring the seepage with reservoir levels, by periodical geophysical and geotechnical measurements for the two (dry and wet) seasons.

Integrated geophysical investigation of groundwater potential and bedrock structure in Precambrian basement rocks of Ife, southwest Nigeria

Telluric profiling (TP) and vertical electrical sounding (VES) techniques were employed for subsurface geophysical investigation at a new development site in Ife, southwest Nigeria. The study was carried out to provide geological data to assist in identifying locations of high potentials for good groundwater resource development and map suitable locations for infrastructural development in the area. Interpreted results of the two techniques (2-D profile map and geoelectric sections) are in good agreement, TP technique probes far deeper depth into the subsurface than VES technique. 2-D cross-section maps generated from TP data reveals zones of weathered/fractured bedrock delineated up to a depth of about 20 m in most locations with the exception of few locations showing outcrops close to the surface. TP cross-section also depict the presence of fault zones at the latter segment of the second traverse. Geoelectric sections generated from VES analysis and interpretation revealed a maximum of four subsurface strata which are topsoil (71–371 Ωm), weathered layer (22–94 Ωm), fractured/intensely fractured bedrock (453–496 Ωm and 122–311 Ωm respectively) and fresh bedrock (533–1088 Ωm). Weathered layer composed of clayey material originating from underlying schist rock occurred at depth below 5 m mainly along the first two traverses with thickness in the range 1.44–5.17 m. These clayey zones are unsuitable for groundwater abstraction. This medium is a less permeable bed of aquitard, with permeability not sufficient to allow the completion of production wells. Fractured zone is prevalent across all the traverses at varying thicknesses (3.65–12.2 m) and at depth range of 2.38–5.82 m. The regions with fractured zone are delineated at several spots for groundwater resource development and areas underlain by competent fresh bedrock at considerable depth identified for future infrastructural development in the study location.

Hydrogeophysical investigation for the aquifers in part of Ilorin, Central Nigeria: Implication on groundwater prospect

Hydrogeophysical study involving the use of Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) was carried out in part of the basement complex rocks of Ilorin, central Nigeria, with the aim of determining its geoelectric parameters and groundwater potential. A total of thirty (30) VES were carried out using Schlumberger electrode configuration, with half electrode separation (AB/2) varying from 1m to 100m. Information on the subsurface lithologies, overburden thickness and aquiferous layers were obtained from the different VES locations in the study area. From the quantitative interpretations of the data collected, using the method of curve matching with the Orellana-Mooney master curves and 1-D forward modeling with WinResist 1.0 version software, three to five lithologic units were identified in the study. These include: the topsoil, sandy/lateritic clay/laterite, the weathered basement, the fractured basement and the fresh bedrock which are predominantly of the ‘KH’ curve type (30%), followed by ‘H’ type (26.7%), other type curves include ‘QH’ (16.7%), ‘HKH’, ‘HA’ and ‘A’ (6.7% each) and KQ and KQH (3.3% each). The weathered layer and the fractured basement constitute the main aquifer units. The aquifers are of generally low resistivity values (mostly below 100 Ω-m). The depths to dry bedrock at the chosen VES locations vary from 2.7 to 62.7 m with a mean value of 13.02 m in the study area. The geoelectrical interpretations of data obtained in these areas have permitted the delineation of the study area into low and moderate groundwater potential zones. This study is expected to assist in future planning for groundwater resources.
 Keywords: Hydrogeophysical, Basement Complex, Groundwater, Electrical Soundings, Weathered, Fractured

Delineation of Groundwater Potential Using GIS, Hydrogeological, Geophysical and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) Technique in Olorunda-Abaa, Ibadan, Southwest Nigeria

Integration Geographic Information System (GIS), hydrogeological, geoelectrical method involving Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) technique, coupled with the Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) data mining technique were utilized with the aim to delineate the groundwater potential zones of Olorunda-Abaa area, Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria. Fifty-three (53) Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) measurements using Schlumberger electrode array, depth to Water Level (DWL) estimation and determination of depth to the bottom of Hand dug wells were carried out across the study area. Multi-criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique was applied to the factors controlling groundwater accumulation in the area. Weights were assigned and subsequently integrated in the ArcGIS environment using Arc Map 10.1 to develop the groundwater potential map of the investigated area. The geoelectric sections developed delineated four subsurface geological units consisting of the topsoil, weathered layer, partly weathered/fractured basement and the fresh bedrock. The VES gave depths to basement bedrock which generally range from 5.6 - 59.4 m. The groundwater conceptual model developed delineated five groundwater potential zones classified as low, medium, high and very high and validated with the thickness of water column obtained from wells over the entire study area. The groundwater potential map generated for the study area show that the medium to very high groundwater potential zones indicates the favourable area where groundwater development is feasible in the study area. This study concludes that the characterization of the groundwater potential zones in the study area can be adopted for future allocation of social amenities, planning, location, development and management of groundwater resources. Keywords: Hydrogeology, Geophysical, Multi-criteria Decision Analysis, Groundwater Potential, Basement Complex, Ibadan. DOI: 10.7176/JEES/11-5-08 Publication date: May 31 st 2021

Assessing molybdenum isotope fractionation during continental weathering as recorded by weathering profiles in saprolites and bauxites

Molybdenum isotopes in three deep and well-characterized weathering profiles – a saprolite formed on meta-diabase from South Carolina, USA, and two ferruginous bauxites formed on Columbia River Basalts in Oregon and Washington, USA – elucidate Mo isotope behavior during continental weathering. The saprolite records an overall loss of Mo relative to the fresh bedrock, as indicated by negative τMoTi, which defines the loss of Mo relative to the relatively immobile element Ti. The saprolites are also isotopically light: δ98Mo values range from −0.89‰ (relative to NIST 3134) to −0.05‰, mean δ98Mo = −0.40‰, compared to +0.55‰ NIST3134 for the underlying unweathered bedrock. By contrast, the ferruginous bauxites generally record addition of Mo relative to the fresh bedrock (zero to positive τMoTi) and generally have higher δ98Mo values than the parental basalts: δ98Mo of the bauxites range from −0.14‰ to +0.38‰ compared to −0.33‰ and +0.02‰ for the unweathered parental basalt. Low δ98Mo values in the saprolites likely reflect preferential retention of isotopically light Mo adsorbed onto accessory Fe-oxy-hydroxides and clays during weathering, whereas the high δ98Mo values in the bauxites reflect the addition of isotopically heavy Mo from groundwater. When the three profiles are combined, there is a positive correlation between τMoTi and δ98Mo, suggesting that when Mo is lost during continental weathering, the resulting regolith is isotopically light, whereas groundwater addition can shift the regolith to heavier values. Because saprolites are a more common weathering product than bauxites, we conclude that, in general, continental weathering fractionates Mo isotopes such that the weathered upper crust retains isotopically light Mo. In contrast, the groundwater that leaches Mo from the weathered crust is isotopically heavy. Thus, chemical weathering of continents generates the isotopically heavy riverine signature observed globally, and partially contributes to the isotopically heavy seawater signature. Finally, these data, in conjunction with previously published data for glacial diamictites, can be used to assess changes in the crustal Mo isotope signature over the last 2.9 Ga.

Subsurface geological, hydrogeophysical and engineering characterisation of Etioro-Akoko, southwestern Nigeria, using electrical resistivity tomography

ABSTRACT Noninvasive geoelectrical subsurface characterisation provides screening of the earth medium to resolve complexity in subsurface geology caused by inhomogeneity of the overburden strata and bedrock architectures. The subsurface geological, hydrogeophysical and engineering conditions of Etioro-Akoko, southwestern Nigeria, were investigated using electrical resistivity tomography (ERT). This was aimed at unravelling the hydrogeodynamic and litho-structural complexity that are responsible for low groundwater yield in wells/boreholes and foundation failures. Field 2D resistivity data sets of the study area were inverted and used to produce geotomographic models for detailed insights into the complex subsurface geological setting. Results of the 2D resistivity inverted models showed three to four distinct layers; the topsoil, weathered layer, partially weathered/fractured bedrock and fresh bedrock. Bedrock structures occasioned by fracturing and deep weathering of the bedrock were delineated with resistivities and thicknesses ranging from 40 to 950 Ωm and 10–25 m, respectively. The fracture systems; F1, F2, F3, F4 and F5 in NW-SE, NNW-SSE, NE-SW and ENE-WSW orientations act as the major groundwater collecting centres in the area. The orientations and geometries of these geologic features are the manifestations of structural deformation of the underlying geology. Fourteen hand-dug well and four borehole points were proposed based on the ERT results. Conversely, the localised bedrock structures and oscillating bedrock topography were suggestive of potential threats to the foundations of engineering structures in the studied area. Reinforcement of concrete foundations at certain sites where ERT suggested that the underlying strata were not capable of bearing loads was recommended as well. This study has offered a detailed understanding of the subsurface geological disposition for sustainable groundwater development and siting of durable civil engineering structures in the studied area and other areas with typical complex geological settings.

Residual shear strength of shales from the Gemas Formation based on ring shear tests

Fresh, dark grey to black, shales with minor sandstones of the Triassic Gemas Formation outcrop at the slope cut between Km 81.30 and 81.05 (southbound) of the North-South Expressway near Ayer Hitam in Johore State. The beds strike 165o with eastward dips of 35o to 43o and have thickness of between 0.2 and 1.5 m. Over-lying the fresh bedrock along an irregular boundary is a bleached zone, some 14 to 18 m thick, comprising light grey to white, in situ oxidized shales and sandstones. Three samples were collected from a thick shale bed; fresh samples A and B at 18 m and 15 m depth, respectively, and a bleached shale sample C at 11 m depth. All samples were air dried, finely ground, and then passed through a wire mesh sieve with 180 μm aperture sieve. The remoulded samples were tested with the Bromhead ring shear apparatus, employing the pre-shearing test procedure with multi-stage loading. Plots of shear stress versus cumulative horizontal shear displacement under low normal stresses (<150 kPa) yield failure envelopes with residual friction angles of 27.4o, 27.4o and 27.9o for samples A, B, and C, respectively. Under moderate to large normal stresses (150-350 kPa), plots of shear stress versus linear displacement sometimes slope upward due to increased friction as a result of sample extrusion and settlement of the top platen. It is concluded that the pre-shearing test procedure with multi-stage loading is best suited for low to moderate, effective normal stresses (<250 kPa). Based on the test results, the residual friction angle for shales from the Gemas Formation is between 27o and 28o.

Stability analyses of dams using multidisciplinary geoscience approach for water reservoir safety: case of Mpu Damsite, Southeastern Nigeria

Geological, hydrological, and geotechnical conditions affected water reservoir safety at the studied damsite. Geophysical and hydrogeological surveys were integrated with hardness test, geological strength index (GSI), rock mass rating (RMR), and shear and compressive strength analyses of bedrocks. Fresh bedrocks were identified at minimum depth of about 10 m with resistivities ranging from 1670 to 4539 Ohm m for the respective argillaceous Ezeaku Group and indurate Asu River shales; both depicted 54 and 47.5 of RMR consecutively. Further results showed very blocky and slightly weathered bedrock, uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) ≥ 20 MPa, mean point load index of 9.3 MPa, and allowable bearing capacity (qal) ˃ 21 MPa. The bedrock qualities were certified fair for bearing dam loads, hence, signified competence as stable bearing surfaces, but devastated due to exposure to oxidation processes introduced by seepages through clay/siltstone that overlies bedrocks as composite layer. Then, uplift pressure (Pu) was initiated, resulting in failure modes. Predictably, occurrence of critical exit gradient and eventual general failure is envisaged due to vigorous leakage into the foundation zone from settling tail water portion. Panaceas should include Pu ˂˂ Dw (dam weight), grouting the leakage zones with concretes of UCS ≈ 20 MPa, and piling into deep foundations.

Oak Transpiration Drawn From the Weathered Bedrock Vadose Zone in the Summer Dry Season

AbstractThe spatiotemporal dynamics of plant water sources are hidden and poorly understood. We document water source use of Quercus garryana growing in Northern California on a profile of approximately 50 cm of soil underlain by 2–4 m of weathered bedrock (sheared shale mélange) that completely saturates in winter, when the oaks lack leaves, and progressively dries over the summer. We determined oak water sources by combining observations of water stable isotope composition, vadose zone moisture and groundwater dynamics, and metrics of tree water status (potential) and use (sapflow). During the spring, oak xylem water is isotopically similar to the seasonal groundwater and shallow, evaporatively enriched soil moisture pools. However, as soils dry and the water table recedes to the permanently saturated, anoxic, low‐conductivity fresh bedrock boundary, Q. garryana shifts to using a water source with a depleted isotopic composition that matches residual moisture in the deep soil and underlying weathered bedrock vadose zone. Sapflow rates remain high as late‐summer predawn water potentials drop below −2.5 MPa. Neutron probe surveys reveal late‐summer rock moisture declines under the oaks in contrast to constant rock moisture levels under grass‐dominated areas. We therefore conclude that the oaks temporarily use seasonal groundwater when it occupies the weathered profile but otherwise use deep unsaturated zone moisture after seasonal groundwater recedes. The ample moisture, connected porosity, and oxygenated conditions of the weathered bedrock vadose zone make it a key tree water resource during the long summer dry season of the local Mediterranean climate.

Geophysical investigation of a weathered terrain for groundwater exploitation: a case study from Huidong County, China

2D electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) coupled with electrical resistivity profiling, induced polarisation, and self-potential (ER-IP-SP) measurements and pumping-test data has been used to acquire subsurface electrical properties for the assessment of groundwater reserves in weathered terrains of Huidong County, China. In this investigation, ERT was performed using a pole-dipole array with 305 measurements, and ER-IP-SP with 127 stations, both along three profiles. A least-squares inversion technique is used for the post processing of the ERT data to generate 2D models of the subsurface geologic units. The following deductions are made based on the 2D ERT modelling. The average depth of fresh basement is generally 10–30 m. Three distinct layers were interpreted, i.e. 5–10 m thick topsoil cover with resistivity <1800 Ωm (above the water table), 5–25 m thick weathered layer with resistivity <900 Ωm (below the water table), and fresh bedrock with resistivity >900 Ωm (below the water table). These layers comprise the 50 m thick overburden revealed by the inverted sections. The ERT models were incorporated with ER-IP-SP to delineate various discontinuities. Groundwater resources enclosed in the weathered/fractured zones were estimated by hydraulic conductivity (K) and transmissivity (T) into three different aquifer zones with specific ranges of T and K (i.e. high, medium, and low yield aquifer). The results suggest that the best potential groundwater resources are contained within fractures/discontinuous zones. The results are well in line with the hydrogeological information available for the investigated area. This geophysical approach is useful to assess the groundwater potential where the weathering has hydrogeological significance.

Discrete fracture network characterization using multiple, high-resolution borehole methods in a crystalline rock aquifer in tropical Sao Paulo city, Brazil

The geological scenario of thick weathering materials over a fresh bedrock is characteristic of tropical climate regions. The application of the Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) methodology relying on multiple, high resolution measurements methods on continuous cores and/or boreholes in such geological conditions, particularly in a contaminated area, is unprecedent. A total of 977 structures were described, between rock cores, geophysical profiling and outcrops, with emphasis on brittle structures due to their importance for groundwater flow. Five fracture sets were characterized, related to lithology. The correlation of these fracture sets with large structures from regional studies indicated the representativeness of this detailed survey. Finally, it is expected that the model presented here can be applied in the management of other contaminated areas of similar geological contexts, particularly in Brazil, where the discussions regarding contaminated fractured aquifers are still quite recent.

Application of Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) survey for investigation of the landslide: a case study from Taprang landslide, Kaski district, west-central Nepal

The depth of the slip surface and thickness of the overburden deposit play a major role in assessing the slope stability of a landslide. Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) survey was carried out in the Taprang Landslide, Kaski district, west- central Nepal to determine subsurface lithological conditions, depth and geometry of the slip surface. Wenner and dipole- dipole arrays were mainly applied in this ERT survey. The electrical resistivity survey revealed that there is a wide range of resistivity value which shows different kinds of layers in the subsurface, and the boundaries between these layers played a significant role to identify the slip surface. The data show mainly three layers from surface to bottom. An upper layer represents the dry to saturated colluvium and sandy gravelly soil (500 to 8000 Ωm), the middle layer is highly –saturated soil with low resistivity value (100–700 Ωm) and unweathered fresh bedrock of schist and quartzite with high resistivity value (1000 to 8000 Ωm) at the bottom layer. The slip surface is considered as depth 25 m at the crown, 10–20 m at the main body part, and below 50 m at the toe and curved in geometry which indicates the rotational type of landslide. Investigation of the slip surface in a landslide using the ERT survey aids to know the slope stability.

Large‐Scale Cenozoic Wind Erosion in the Puna Plateau: The Salina del Fraile Depression

AbstractWind erosion is integral to the evolution of arid landscapes on Earth and Mars, but the nature of long‐term wind erosion of bedrock is poorly understood. Here we describe the Salina del Fraile (SdF) depression in the Puna Plateau of the Central Andes, NW Argentina, as a landform excavated by wind over several million years. New structural cross sections and a compilation of chronostratigraphic ages rule out the hypothesis that the depression was created by transtensional tectonics. Dated remnant lacustrine and alluvial deposits in the floor of the depression constrain the rate and timing of erosion. Late Oligocene‐Miocene compressional folding uplifted friable strata that were preferentially eroded, resulting in the high‐relief (900 m) depression. Up to 1.95 km and an average of 1.05 km of strata were eroded during the last 8.2 to 17 Ma, at rates of 0.06 to 0.23 mm/yr. These rates are similar to long‐term average wind erosion rates reported in other regions. Coarse‐grained eolian megaripples, yardangs, and elongated ridges indicate ongoing eolian abrasion and deflation, aided by salt weathering, of the floor of the depression. Megaripple migration across stony lag surfaces exposes fresh bedrock to continued erosion. The SdF also contains kilometer‐scale mesas and ridges that we interpret as erosional remnants. These landforms are similar to megayardangs and erosional topography identified on the lower flanks of Mount Sharp, Gale crater, Mars. In such hyperarid landscapes characterized by lithologic heterogeneities, high‐relief landforms can be generated and sustained by wind erosion, without significant fluvial or glacial incision.

Geophysical and Petrographical Study of Apatapiti Charnockitic Rock, Akure, Southwestern Nigeria

Geophysical and petrographic evaluation of the earth’s subsurface is of vital concern, especially prior to geotechnical and hydrogeology works. Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) of Ire-Akari Estate of Apatapiti Community in Akure South was carried out to assess the effects of the petrographic properties of charnockitic rocks on the geotechnical and hydrogeologic systems. The three curve types identified within the study area are AA, KH and HA, with a predominance of KH curve type, which suggests that the predominant geologic sequence comprising the topsoil has a clayey content alternating with laterite. This is underlain by weathered layer and fresh bedrock. Petrographic analyses revealed the presence of plagioclase (Albite-Anorthite), hypersthene, biotite, quartz, hornblende, microcline, pyroxene and dark-coloured minerals, with an average modal composition of 31%, 15%, 11%, 18%, 13%, 1%, 5% and 6%, respectively. A correlation of both results showed that the topsoil is mostly of about 0.4 m to 2 m thick layer of clay, indicative of weathering of feldspars. This is underlain by 0.8 m to 7 m thick layer of lateritic clay which responds as a low resistive layer. However, the mineral composition at location 1 is characterized by rocks that are more resistant to weathering due to the presence of low plagioclase in the rock sample compared to samples from other locations with a higher percentage of plagioclase and hypersthene minerals. This implies that weathering condition at all locations except location 1 could be favorable to hydrogeology if there are interconnected fractures in the parent rock (charnockite). However, since the area is predominantly covered by clayey materials which are established as poor foundational materials, appropriate ground improvement techniques and in-depth geotechnical analyses should be performed to forestall hazards associated with them.

Subsurface electrical resistivity modelling over a suspected fault zone at Ojirami, Southwestern Nigeria

The subsurface of a suspected fault zone at Ojirami Southwestern Nigeria was investigated using the four-electrode array model of the electrical resistivity method of geophysical prospecting. Measurements were taken along four traverses using the 1-D and 2-D electrical resistivity field techniques. The Schlumberger and dipole–dipole electrode configurations were respectively utilized for each of the techniques. The 1-D data were interpreted by partial curve matching and computer iteration using the IPI2Win® software. The data obtained from the 2-D ERI were processed and migrated using the Dipro for Windows® 4.0 inversion software. Inversion was done using the finite element modelling (FEM) method. The second-order smoothness constraint was used and five iterations were carried out on each data set. Three 2-D resistivity models and one geoelectric section were generated from the inverted resistivity data. A resistivity depth slice map of the depth range of 2.5–5 m was also generated for the assessment of the spatial configuration of the suspected fault zone. Geoelectric units which include the topsoil/outcrop, weathered/faulted bedrock and the fresh bedrock were delineated by the 2-D resistivity models and the geoelectric section. The suspected fault zone manifested as zone of comparatively low resistivity (8–81 Ω-m) within two resistive (800 to > 5000 Ω m) basement bedrocks on the resistivity images and geoelectric section. The resistivity depth slice map also revealed the fault zone to be a low resistivity discontinuity within two flanks of fresh bedrocks. The study concluded that the study area is indeed a fault zone.

Hydro-geologic, Corrosivity and Geotechnical Implications of Geoelectric Sounding Survey at FUTA Cooperative Housing Estate, Ilaramokin near Akure Southwestern Nigeria

&#x0D; Aim: Groundwater potential evaluation, corrosivity and geotechnical competence investigations of the subsurface layers were carried at FUTA Cooperative Housing Estate, Ilaramokin near Akure Southwestern Nigeria in order to facilitate proper positioning of facilities within the estate.&#x0D; Methodology: A total of 14 vertical electrical sounding (VES) data was acquired across the estate using Schlumberger array.&#x0D; Results: The VES survey results delineated 3 - 5 geoelectric layers across the estate which corresponds to the topsoil, weathered layer, partially weathered basement, partially fractured basement and the presumed fresh bedrock. The groundwater potential map of the estate revealed that the groundwater potential is moderate (GWP of 0.5 - 0.75) to high (GWP of 0.75 - 1.0) in the western and southeastern parts of the estate. The depth slice corrosivity maps (1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 m) of the estate indicated that the corrosivity of the subsurface layers within the estate reduces with depth. The 0.5 m depth slice isoresistivity map of the estate indicates that the central and a segment of the southwestern parts of the estate are characterized with low resistivity (50 - 100 Ωm) indicating incompetence, while the estate flanks (west and east) are considered to be moderately competent (100 - 350 Ωm). Likewise, the 1.0 m depth slice isoresistivity map of the estate reveals that the central and western parts of the estate are characterized with low resistivity (50 - 100 Ωm) suggesting incompetent layer, while the northern, southern and eastern parts of the estate are moderately competent (100 - 350 Ωm).&#x0D; Conclusion: These results suggested that structural failures can be expected on any engineering structures sited at the central, northern, southern and eastern parts of the estate. Groundwater efforts should be concentrated at the western and southeastern parts of the estate.

Subsoil Characterization for Foundation Stability Using Geophysical and Geotechnical Methods

An Integrated geophysical and geotechnical subsoil characterization of parts of the new stadium complex, Akure, southwestern Nigeria had been carried out with a view to characterize the subsoil materials for stability of proposed engineering foundation. Five (5) magnetic and three (3) dipole-dipole profiling were carried out at station separation of 10 m along the traverses. Twenty one (21) Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) measurements were made at selected locations along the traverses. A total of five (5) soil samples were collected from a dug pit at a depth of 1.0 m for laboratory analysis. The magnetic profiles delineated characteristic one to two negative peak amplitude anomalies that are typical of thin dipping dyke models (suspected to be fractures, shear zones, faults or geological contacts) along Traverses 1-5. The 2-D geomagnetic section delineated overburden thicknesses ranging from 5 – 15 m along the Traverses. The subsurface geologic units delineated by the geoelectric sections and the 2-D resistivity images consisting of the topsoil, weathered layer, partly weathered/fractured basement and fresh bedrock. Part of the topsoil and the weathered layer are characterized by low resistivity values suggestive of the presence of clay and or weak geomaterials at a depth range of 1 – 4 m within which civil engineering foundation are usually placed. These zones and the fractured/fault zones delineated by the magnetic methods constitute weak geomaterials that are considered to be inimical to civil engineering structures within the study area. Results of geotechnical analysis of soil samples adjudged plasticity indices of samples A, C and D to be of high index and were characterized by high plasticity/compressibility and consequently of low engineering competence. Samples B and E were classified as low-medium plasticity/compressibility, and are rated moderate–high engineering competence. However, it was observed that soil with higher liquid limits or plasticity index have lower electrical resistivity values and hence were adjudged low in engineering foundation competence. Based on the analysis of the results obtained from this study, the engineering foundation suitability of the soil were generally classified as good (B and E), fair (D) and poor (A and C). It can therefore be concluded that the subsoil in the investigated area are generally of low to high civil engineering competence. Keywords: Geophysical; Geotechnical; Subsoil; Competence; Characterization; Foundation, Stability. DOI: 10.7176/JEES/10-6-08 Publication date: June 30 th 2020

An engineering site investigation using non-invasive geophysical approach

Subsurface geological formation is essential to validate design assumptions for the construction of deep engineering structures, especially in the weathered terrains. The geological formation can be delineated using resistivity values through an electrical survey. However, the subsurface resistivity alone is ambiguous to interpret the subsurface geological units. As part of an ongoing investigation to select the key methods towards this end, an integrated geophysical survey through a combination of electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), induced polarization (IP), magnetic method and joint profile method (JPM) was carried out in a weathered terrain of South Huizhou, China. Resistivity, IP, and magnetic data were obtained using a variety of survey parameters. Subsurface resistivity was calibrated with upfront boreholes lithology to constrain geological formation into four discrete layers such as topsoil cover with resistivity 2–3257 Ωm, highly weathered layer having resistivity 2–636 Ωm, partly weathered layer with resistivity range 448–1204 Ωm, and unweathered bedrock having resistivity 791–116,497 Ωm. The integration of ERT with IP, magnetic and JPM delineated four faults namely F1, F2, F3 and F4, and several localized fractures. The weathered layer, fractures and faults were marked as the weakest zones for engineering projects, whereas the unweathered fresh bedrocks were identified as the most appropriate locations for the construction of deep structures in the study area. The weakest zones unsuitable for engineering structures were delineated as the most appropriate places of groundwater occurrence in the studied area revealed by low resistivity ranging from 2 to 1204 Ωm and overlapped by low chargeability less than 14.8 ms. This non-invasive geophysical approach suggests the most suitable locations highly significant not only for the future construction of engineering structures but also the exploitation of groundwater resources in the investigated area.