Seismic Refraction Tomography Research Articles

An assessment of seismicity and near surface geophysical characteristics of potential solid waste landfill sites in the Eastern Black Sea Region of Türkiye.

This study aimed to assess the suitability of the potential solid waste landfill sites in seven provinces (Samsun, Ordu, Giresun, Trabzon, Gümüşhane, Bayburt and Artvin) in the Eastern Blacksea Region of Türkiye. The earthquake hazard analysis for two major earthquakes which occurred in the region was first carried out. Then, the geophysical methods including seismic refraction tomography (SRT), electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW) were conducted to find out the structural and physical properties of the subsurface which include the layering, soil classification based on VS30 and the groundwater content at 25 locations of 13 in target provinces. The integrated interpretation of whole data sets demonstrates that Işıktepe, Esence, Çamburnu and Kazantaş which are characterized by VP > 1200m/s, VS30 ≥ 400m/s, ρ > 70 Ohm-m, low earthquake hazard and seismicity are more suitable among others. Vezirköprü, Şebinkarahisar, Yenice, Bayburt-Center, Balkaynak and Murgul will be suitable after a geotechnical reclamation due to moderate seismic velocities and electrical resistivity which are 900 < VP ≤ 1200m/s, 200 < VS30 < 400m/s and 10 < ρ ≤ 70 Ohm-m representing stiff and wet soils. In addition, Bafra, Ağalık and Ovacık were considered to be unsuitable due to the presence of thick, water-saturated soft soil and extremely weathered rocks. Finally, this study shows that the joint interpretation of seismicity and geophysical data in potential waste landfill sites, extremely important for the planning and development of a city, can provide the valuable information which will enable to prevent possible deformations, environmental problems and economic losses after waste landfill.

Integrating seismic refraction and electrical approaches in determining geophysical properties of near-surface cavities in Calabar-Ikom highway, Odukpani, Cross River State, Nigeria

Integrated seismic refraction tomography (SRT) and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) were used to study near-surface cavities with the aim of determining their geophysical properties. Five seismic refraction profiles around the study area were carried out using a 24-channel seismograph (ES-3000) while four ERT and ERT profiles were also conducted with IGIS resistivity meter and PLOTREFA software respectively. The data was processed using the RES2DINV software. Travel-time curves and velocity models were generated from the processed SRT data for each survey line, and 2-D inverted apparent resistivity models along the same lines were also generated for the purpose of comparison respectively. The results as obtained from the profiles showed SRT 1 (with a modelled velocity of 1,216 m/s in layer two at a depth of approximately 11 m - 20 m beneath the subsurface and an estimated cavity diameter of 11 m) and ERT 1 (with an apparent resistivity of approximately 826 Ωm and a depth of approximately 12.5 m – 16 m) indicates that the near-surface cavity outcrop links with a close-by mountainous structure in the EW direction. Profiles SRT 2 (with an approximately modeled velocity layer of 980 m/s in layer two at an approximate depth of 3.5 m – 7.0 m) and SRT 3 (with a modeled velocity layer of approx. 1,000 m/s in layer two at an approximate depth of 4.0 m – 7.0 m and 3.0 m – 9.0 m); ERT 2 (with an apparent resistivity of approximately 80 Ωm); and ERT 3 (with apparent resistivities of 116 Ωm and 182 Ωm at depths of approximately 3.5 m to 6.4 m and 4.0 m to 15.8 m) indicates that the surface cavity outcrop extends underneath the road network (Odukpani Central Section of Calabar-Ikom Highway) with a width of approximately 12 m. Profiles SRT 4 and SRT 5 (with an average velocity layer of 1,000 m/s in layer two at an approximate depth of 6.0 m – 13.2 m), and ERT 4 (with apparent resistivity ranging between 121 Ωm and 172 Ωm) at a depth of approximately 9.5 m to 20.0 m reveal that the near-surface cavity extends up to about 11 m across the highway and about 120 m away from the edge of the road. The above result will serve as reliable technical information to Transport and Building Construction Engineers on the presence of cavities along road networks and settlement areas in Odukpani Local Government Area. The recommendation is also made for the use of other geophysical techniques like Ground Penetration Radar (GPR) in conjunction with SRT and ERT to get higher-resolution imagery of the study area.

Landslide assessment through integrated geoelectrical and seismic methods: A case study in Thungsong site, southern Thailand

Many landslides can cause significant damage to infrastructure, property, and human life. To study landslide structure and processes, geophysical techniques are most productive when employed in combination with other survey and monitoring tools, such as intrusive sampling. Here, the integration of electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and seismic refraction tomography (SRT) methods is used to assess landslides in Thungsong district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, the south of Thailand, where is a hilly and seasons of prolonged rainfall region. The 2D cross-plot analysis of P-wave velocity and resistivity values obtained by these two methods is introduced to identify potential landslide-prone zones in this region. The results of the 2D cross-plot model reveal detailed image of the subsurface conditions, highlighting areas of low P-wave velocity (lower than 600 m/s) and low resistivity (lower than 600 Ωm). These areas are indicative of weak zone and are potential to be sliding materials. Moreover, an intrusive sampling data from boreholes is also used for the calibration and validation geophysical data with geological data. This can improve the accuracy of landslide assessment and develop effective mitigation strategies to reduce the risk of landslides in this area. In addition of the 2D cross-plot, the volume of sliding material is also determined from the difference of the surface and slipping plane elevations. The volume calculation of sliding material is roughly 33447.76 m3. This approach provides a preliminary tool for landslide studies and monitoring landslides in this region, thus enabling an improved understanding of slope failure processes in this context, and the basis of a landslide mitigation strategy in the future.

Application of seismic refraction tomography for detecting a hidden potential fault

Seismic refraction technique is an increasingly useful geophysical tool for geotechnical studies in civil engineering work including the mapping of different soil formation of subsoil and detection of the bed rock. Additionally, wave velocity is a key parameter which correlates directly with significant geotechnical parameters of soils and rocks. Today, the evolution of the measurement technique in the field and the data processing allows to obtain tomographic images which increases its potential for applications to evaluate structuration of rock mass. This work describes the basic principles of seismic tomography and a case history of an application in civil works used to evaluate the foundation conditions of a site were a new structure for a spillway for the Gatun lake, north Panama, was projected. The study allowed to detect a destructured band sector in the bedrock which was covered by more modern sediments and vegetation just in the site of interest for the foundation of a project. The magnitude of the destructured bedrock forced to relocate the structure.

Investigation of fractured rock beneath a uranium-tailing storage dam through UAV digital photogrammetry and seismic refraction tomography

Failure events in dams can be associated with processes in the dam body and in the foundation of the structure. If they are properly identified in early stages, corrective actions can take place, leading to a reduction in the risk of collapse and/or rupture of the dam. Most studies on dams are carried out on the body of the dam; however, problems associated with the foundation of the structure can also lead to loss of stability and subsequent ruptures. This study presents an analysis of the advantages and limitations of the use of seismic refraction in hydrogeological studies of fractured aquifers under pressure from large loads, specifically a dam in this case. Seismic refraction data were collected on an outcrop of fractured rock near a uranium storage dam foundation in southeastern Brazil. The results and interpretations were supported by a structural analysis performed through manual strike measurements collected with a Clark compass and an uncrewed aerial vehicle digital photogrammetry survey in an outcrop. The digital photogrammetric survey mapped the spatial distribution and orientation of the geological structures of the rock mass. Although the structural measurements performed through digital photogrammetry presented greater variability than the measurements collected from the compass, the maximum density of the fracture measurements obtained from both methods were similar and were corroborated by the regional and local fracture patterning. The integration of seismic refraction data with geotechnical and geological investigations allowed us to identify the positioning of structural lineaments in the rock mass and zones with a higher degree of rock alteration. The identification of highly fractured zones in the rock mass from such non-invasive investigations could be used to assist in decision making for structural reinforcements in the foundation of the dam to avoid the loss of stability at the foot of the dam from possible leaks or water flows from the reservoir.

Landslide ground model development through integrated geoelectrical and seismic imaging in Thungsong district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand

A ground model of a shallow landslide in rainfall-induced slope failure of Thungsong, Nakhon Si Thammarat, southern Thailand is developed through an integrated geophysical approach, utilising electrical resistivity tomography and P-wave seismic refraction tomography (SRT) methods. Those two methods were applied to assess landslide structure and study deformation mechanisms along four profiles. Beside the four profiles there is another profile, which was acquired near an borehole and used for the calibration with geological data. Our results show subsurface structures in terms of the ground model used to determine stratigraphic layers, zones of saturation or groundwater table, and significant differences between the landslide slip material and the underlying bedrock. The clay-rich zones (resistivity less than 500 Ωm) in the colluvium on the relatively steep slope, show enhanced potential for landslides. This silty clay plays an important role for landslide activation in this site. Moreover, a combination of steep slopes, shallow basement rocks overlain by clay-rich colluvium, and seasonally high rain fall leads to landslides in the region. The ground model produced by geophysical imaging for this region achieves a comprehensive understanding of the structure and lithology of a complex landslide system and overcomes the limitations of remote-sensing data or isolated intrusive sampling techniques alone.

Using Electrical Resistivity Tomography Method to Determine the Inner 3D Geometry and the Main Runoff Directions of the Large Active Landslide of Pie de Cuesta in the Vítor Valley (Peru)

Pie de Cuesta is a large landslide with a planar area of 1 km2 located in the Vítor district, in the Arequipa department (Peru), and constitutes an active phenomenon. It belongs to the rotational/translational type, which concerns cases that are very susceptible to reactivation because any change in the water content or removal of the lower part can lead to a new instability. In this context, a previous geological study has been decisive in recognizing the lithologies present and understanding their behavior when they are saturated. But it is also necessary to know the inner “landslide geometry” in order to gusset a geotechnical diagnosis. The present study shows how the deep electrical profiles (ERT, electrical resistivity tomography method), supported by two Vp seismic refraction tomography lines (SVP), have been used to create a 3D cognitive model that would allow the identification of the inner landslide structure: the 3D rupture surface, the volume of the sliding mass infiltration sectors or fractures, and the preferred runoff directions. Moreover, on large landsides, placing the geophysical profiles is a crucial aspect because it greatly depends on the accessibility of the area and the availability of the physical space required. In our case, we need to extend profiles up to 1100 m long in order to obtain data at greater depths since this landslide is approximately 200 m tall. Based on the geophysical results and geologic information, the 3D final model of the inner structure of this landslide is presented. Additionally, the main runoff water directions and the volume of 90.5 Hm3 of the sliding mass are also estimated.

Assessing Geotechnical Property for Construction Purposes: A Study on the Efficacy of Shallow Seismic Refraction Tomography Method

Assessing Geotechnical Property for Construction Purposes: A Study on the Efficacy of Shallow Seismic Refraction Tomography Method

Landslide susceptibility mapping of Penang Island, Malaysia, using remote sensing and multi-geophysical methods

Malaysia is one of the countries in the world experiencing landslides yearly due to natural events and human activities. Penang Island is Malaysia’s second most developed state and the largest by population. It is prone to landslides with devastating environmental impacts. Hence, the need to characterize its near-surface soil-rock conditions. This study uses remotely sensed data via frequency ratio (FR) techniques to identify landslide-prone areas based on different categories of landslide causative factors. To further understand the conditions and hydrodynamics of the soil-rock profiles causing landslides, electrical resistivity tomography and seismic refraction tomography were carried out at a landslide-suspected section in the study area. Also, the satellite-derived Bouguer gravity anomaly modeling was performed to map the varied gravity anomalies associated with landslide-triggering factors in lithologic units. The multi-geophysical models offer strongly correlated results with the causative remote sensed maps and the landslide susceptibility index (LSI) map. The likelihood of landslides occurring in the area, as suggested by the area under curve modeling of LSI data, yielded a high predicted success rate of 83.47%. Hence, prospective landslides were identified at the hilly and elevated sections, while the less susceptible sections were identified on flat reliefs. Landslides may also be triggered, for instance, at steep sections with varied contractive soil bodies and shallow structures. Most importantly, leveraging the LSI map would help the necessary agencies to forestall and mitigate future landslide occurrences in the area.

Groundwater Circulation in the Shallow Crystalline Aquifer of Tharisa Mine, South Africa: Evidence from Environmental Isotopes and Near-Surface Geophysics

For underground mining, efficient groundwater management is one of the critical mining economics components. The region of interest, known as Tharisa Mine, is situated on the western limb of the Bushveld Igneous Complex, which is home to South Africa’s premier platinum-group metal resources. This work aimed to provide the findings from the investigation and imaging of the near-subsurface hydrogeological architecture in a shallow profile using stable isotopes of water (18O and 2H) and radioactive water isotopes (3H). Regarding isotope data, 18O varied from −3.5 to 1.5‰; 2H from −24 to 4.7‰; and 3H from 2.0 to 3.4 T.U. Utilizing combined geophysical techniques, the results were verified. Additionally, the geophysical methods, including seismic refraction tomography, multichannel analysis of surface waves, electrical resistivity tomography, and magnetics, helped identify the fluid’s pathways and lineaments during migration to verify the isotope results. The groundwater inflow volumes into the open pit were initially determined by integrating the following findings: the delineation of fracture systems/zones and fluid migration pathways; mining activities enhance the storage and transmission ability of the aquifer; and the main sources of water in the mine include mixing of surface and deep water sources, recycling of water possibly via lineaments, and tailings dam seepages.

Main water pathways in cultivated clayey calcisols in molassic hills in southwestern France: Toward spatialization of soil waterlogging

AbstractLocal waterlogging often occurs on the steep slopes of clayey–calcareous soils in southwestern France, causing nutrients and pollutants transfer to the river bodies and reduced ecosystems services. These soils developed in the Miocene molassic hill formation and are generally impermeable with abundant traces of hydromorphy and heterogenous spatial distribution. This article aims to describe the hydrological functioning of these soils, based on a cross analysis of pedological, hydrological, and geophysical characterizations. Our experimental site is the catchment area located in Auradé (southwestern France). Here, we analyze the flows at the outlet of the studied watershed together with piezometric and climatic monitoring from September 2020 to September 2021. We show that the hydrological year is divided into three phases: first, a soil recharge phase with an effective rainfall of about 100 mm; second, a saturation phase, when 80% of the effective precipitation is drained mostly by runoff and hypodermic flows; third, a drying phase. Soil waterlogging events usually occur during the saturation phase. They are due to several forms of flow: surface runoff associated with return flow, hypodermic flow caused by the presence of soil layers with lower hydraulic conductivity in the subsurface (swelling clays and plowing sole) and groundwater flow with intermittent connection of the soil water table in the hillside to the alluvial groundwater table. We also conducted independent seismic refraction tomography analyses that validate localized waterlogging patterns along the catchment and open the way to spatializing areas with high waterlogging potential at the scale of the study plot.

Role of Seismic Refraction Tomography (SRT) in bedrock mapping; case study from industrial zone, Ain-Sokhna area, Egypt

In this study, eighteen compressional P-wave seismic refraction profiles survey was conducted on the western side of the Gulf of Suez, Egypt, to map bedrock topography, which is vital information in foundation pole placement and design for large factory construction. The configuration of the seismic survey consists of 10 metres geophone intervals (12 and 24 channels) with a total survey length of 3150 metres survey length. The seismic compressional wave velocity distribution reveals three layers ranging from (400 to 1100 m/s), (1200 to 2000 m/s), and (2200 to 3500 m/s). According to the data, the first low-velocity layer represents unconsolidated Wadi sediments. The second layer, on the other hand, comprises consolidated Wadi sediments, while the third layer comprises fractured to intact sandstone bedrock. The thickness of the first layer is believed to be between 0.5 and 10 m, while the thickness of the second layer is between 8.5 and 25 m. Pseudo-3D model of velocity distribution was constructed, revealing the presence of several low-velocity zones at a depth ranging from 15 to 32 m. Then, the topography of the non-rippable sandstone rock mass was mapped utilizing 3-D model. Finally, the correlation between seismic refraction tomography (SRT) results and nearby well logging dataset drilled by the Egyptian Geological Survey and Mining Authority (EGSMA) matched quite well. It may be inferred that, up to a depth of 15 to 32 metres, there is a high-velocity rock layer suitable for constructing deep foundations for multiple levels of the mega factory.

Evaluating imaging uncertainty associated with the near surface and added value of vertical arrays using Bayesian seismic refraction tomography

AbstractTraditional tomographic methods do not consider the uncertainties associated with near-surface velocities and static corrections and provide a deterministic solution to the estimation problem. However, these uncertainties significantly affect structural mapping and interpretation of seismic imaging results. On the other hand, Bayesian first-arrival tomography provides multiple near-surface models that fit observed traveltimes equally well and enable the study of potential solution distributions. We demonstrate this approach on a complex synthetic near-surface model, representative of arid environments, to quantify associated velocity and statics uncertainties. We evaluate two different parameterizations for subsurface velocities in the context of near-surface Bayesian tomography: Voronoi tessellation with natural neighbor interpolation and the more conventional Delaunay triangulation with linear interpolation. Our analysis shows that the Voronoi cell parameterization with natural neighbor interpolation is more appropriate for this problem. Finally, the new approach is applied to compare two alternative acquisition geometries comprising conventional surface receivers and surface receivers augmented with vertical receiver arrays. The results demonstrate that adding vertical receiver arrays to conventional surface receivers can significantly reduce the near-surface velocity uncertainty and thus increases the accuracy of the seismic imaging results. Furthermore, the study shows that Bayesian tomography can be used as a tool for evaluating different source and receiver geometries during the acquisition design stage.

Characterization of rock glaciers environments combining structurally-coupled and petrophysically-coupled joint inversions of electrical resistivity and seismic refraction datasets

The degradation of mountain permafrost is well documented at many Alpine sites. Geophysical techniques have been intensively used to monitor these sites, since permafrost degradation is not only a proxy of climate change and global warming but also a possible source of slope instabilities and triggering of mass movements. While the use of non-invasive geophysical techniques is promising, the interpretation of different geophysical results can introduce ambiguities in defining the investigated subsoil and often does not lead to a quantitative estimation of the internal permafrost constituents (rock matrix, ice, liquid water and air contents). To overcome these limitations, we applied an optimized joint inversion approaches of electrical resistivity and refraction seismic tomography datasets collected at two Swiss rock glaciers (Schafberg - Canton Grisons, and Ritigraben - Canton Valais). Firstly, to improve the structural interpretation of the frozen near subsurface, we performed a structurally coupled cooperative joint inversion, optimizing the coupling parameters. Subsequently, we used the petrophysical joint inversion to quantify the composition of these mountain permafrost substrates, optimizing the numerical and petrophysical parameters. The obtained results agree with field observations and the borehole data collected at these two sites, opening new perspectives for the future quantitative monitoring of permafrost constituents. Plain language summaryIncreasing mean annual temperatures over the last decades has led to glacier melt and permafrost thawing. The degradation of glaciers is easier to quantify as they are visible on the surface, as opposed to permafrost which is found in the subsoil and must therefore be studied with direct drilling techniques or with non-invasive geophysical methods. Drilling investigations are expensive and complicated to perform in high mountain environments and only provide 1D information. Geophysical surveys can be used to quickly and economically characterize larger areas. Since permafrost thawing is a risk factor in high mountain environments (inducing e.g. instability of infrastructure, or triggering rock falls and landslides), it is important to have reliable geophysical techniques to study these environments. In this work, we propose an optimization of two different data analysis processes, applied to geoelectrical and seismic measurements, to better define the structure and composition of two ice-rich mountain permafrost sites in the Swiss Alps.

Integration of Electrical Resistivity Tomography and Seismic Refraction Tomography to Investigate Subsiding Sinkholes in Karst Areas

Operational and safety issues associated with subsiding sinkholes in karst areas start with the definition of fractures and joints, causing ground weakness. Conventional geotechnical boreholes and geological mapping must be complemented with indirect subsurface exploration techniques to detail those structures. This work aims to use electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and seismic refraction tomography (SRT) near-surface geophysical techniques to infer the 2D and 3D geometry of sediment-infilled sinkholes formed by the conjunction of fractures and joints in karst areas. Geophysical surveys were performed in a sediment-infilled sinkhole area with two sectors of different subsiding and infilling degrees formed by the conjunction of two fault systems in an experimental research area in the Sierra de Gádor Mountains in southeastern Spain. The ERT survey delimited the geometry of the sinkhole area, including the main fault-boun4ded limits, other minor faults, buried epikarst forms, and the distribution of coarse and clay-rich infilling. The SRT survey corroborated the structure and disambiguated clay-rich and high-moisture-content structures giving similar velocity fields. The integration of the ERT and SRT techniques provides indirect 2D and 3D visualizations of the ground of interest in predicting weakness-triggering mechanisms associated with the regional karst structure. This trial in an experimental uninhabited area, with the possibility of exploring subsiding karst structures is of special interest for designing operational and safety measures in urban areas, where similar karst structures may go undetected and monitoring capability is often more limited. The technological development of the used techniques enables the periodical geophysical monitoring of karst structures, thus making the identification of structural changes modifying the land safety and hydrological mechanisms feasible over time.

RQD modeling using statistical-assisted SRT with compensated ERT methods: Correlations between borehole-based and SRT-based RMQ models

In complex tropical granitic terrains, foundation rocks’ bearing strength is important in infrastructure design, while bedrock fractures that adversely impact engineering structures can boost groundwater productivity. Consequently, rock quality designation (RQD) can characterize these features effectively. This technique is difficult to determine in boreholes and relatively costly for a large area. As a result, novel approaches were employed to effectively determine RQD over a large aerial extent using statistically optimized borehole and seismic P-wave velocity (Vp) data with compensated resistivity modeling. This study was carried out in the typical granitic terrain of Penang Island, Malaysia. The first stage involves evaluating and developing borehole-based RQD models, and the results were correlated with Vp data and were regressively analyzed to develop lithology-based empirical relations. These empirical relations were used for developing 2D/3D SRT (seismic refraction tomography) based RQD models and were treated as novel models. Integrating the borehole-based and SRT-based RQD models with compensated resistivity models effectively delineate the surficial-to-subsurface soil-rock profiles based on their rock mass quality (RMQ) and conditions, as residual soil, completely weathered rock, relatively weathered rock, and integral/fresh granitic bedrock, including different directional and multiple axial fractures. Based on these results, the highlighted suitable sections for founding the foundations of infrastructure are pinned on the fresh bedrock at the depths of 8–25 m, with >2400 m/s, >2000 Ω m, and RQD >90%. The deep-weathered/fractured zones, with depth >35 m at localized sections, are water-bearing proposed for groundwater development. Overall, the methods and lithology-based empirical relationships can be adopted in granitic terrains to rapidly estimate RQD for a vast area with few and no borehole data.

Combination of 2D-Electrical Resistivity Imaging and Seismic Refraction Tomography methods for groundwater potential assessments: A case study of Khammouane province, Laos

2D Electrical Resistivity Imaging (2D-ERI) and Seismic Refraction Tomography (SRT) are non-destructive techniques widely used for numerous geophysical investigations, namely, structural geology mapping, archaeological, engineering, and groundwater investigations. The present study aims to define potential groundwater zones in the Thakhek district of Khammouane Province, Laos, by 2D-ERI and SRT methods; due to the limitation of groundwater potential information, monitoring and evaluation activities regarding groundwater quantity and quality have not been conducted in this study area. The 2D-ERI measurement is based on the Wenner configuration with an electrode spacing of 10-160 m. In contrast, SRT uses a 6.5 kg sledgehammer for a seismic source with a 4 m geophone interval. The results indicate moderate resistivity values ranging from 18.8-71 Ohm-m, and seismic velocities ranging from 1220-2140 m/s were found at 12-30 m in the study region, illustrating the existence of a groundwater/aquifer at this depth. These results correlate well with drilling results from the borehole measurements in the Thakhek district, where the water levels were found at a depth of 12 m for borehole 1 and 15 m for borehole 2. The present study also demonstrates the correlation between 2D-ERI and SRT techniques. The adopted methods favor groundwater identification in the study region and other areas with similar geology formations.

Seismic refraction tomography in San Luis, headward Coca River erosion zone

In the context of the headward erosion of the Coca River, we have carried out a seismic tomography experiment in the San Luis town at the river bank. San Luis is located directly over the eroded debris avalanche, but this resists mass movement, probably due to the presence of volcanic breccia deposits.We have developed a procedure to attack seismic tomography’s regularization problem. This procedure consists in using regularization by smoothing. The smoothing parameter is chosen whit the L-curve criterion and gives the optimal solution. To draw the L-curve, we have varied the vertical and horizontal smoothing parameters and plotted the root mean square error of the model versus the three norms between the a priori and the resulting models. We have tested the Euclidean, taxicab, and infinity norms in our procedure to better detail the optimal solution. We have tested the regularization strategy in a synthetic model with a similar dimension to the problem in our survey.The results of tomography allow describing the geology strata structure below the village. Two stratigraphic units resulting from debris avalanche deposits are overlayed in a bedrock unit that seems to give structural strength to prevent river erosion in San Luis. We have identified this bedrock with the volcanic breccia at 20 m depth. The breccia P wave seismic velocity obtained with the tomography is 1.2 km/s.The parameters of velocity and structure resulting from our seismic survey allow a hazard diagnostic and future solutions for the San Luis settlement.

Evaluation of Engineering Site and Subsurface Structures Using Seismic Refraction Tomography: A Case Study of Abydos Site, Sohag Governorate, Egypt

Because of the strategic importance of the Abydos archaeological site in Egypt as a source of wealth for Egyptian tourism, this study was concerned with carrying out geophysical measurements to detect subsurface succession and measure variations in the geotechnical engineering features of the soils/rocks in order to protect this significant area. The findings will assist geologists and seismologists in collaborating with archaeologists for future site development, revitalization, and investment. The primary objectives of this work were to determine the subsurface lithology, evaluate the engineering geotechnical properties of soils/rocks, identify the layer thicknesses, and identify the site class by calculating Vs30. To achieve these goals, seventeen (17) seismic refraction tomography (SRT) P- and S-wave measurements were executed in front of the Osirion location. SeisImager Software was used for the processing and interpretation of the outcomes. The results were the travel time–distance curves, which were used for building the 2D seismic models that exhibited the velocity and the depth of the layered models. These models were validated by our previous works using electric resistivity tomography and borehole data. The results indicated that this site consisted of three geoseismic subsurface layers. The first layer was the surface that was made up of wadi deposits, which were a mixture of gravel, sand, and silt and were characterized by incompetent to slightly competent materials. The second layer corresponded to the sand and muddy sand deposits of competent rock that was of fair to moderate quality. The third layer (clay deposits) had a higher velocity and was more compact and may be employed as a bedrock layer. The elastic moduli, Vs30, petrophysical, and geotechnical properties of the three geoseismic layers were appraised as essential parameters. Integration of petrophysical and geotechnical parameters and elastic moduli revealed that the third layer was composed of competent clays, which were characterized by low values of porosity, void ratio, Poisson ratio, and stress ratio. It also had a high rigidity, Young’s and bulk moduli, concentration and material indexes, N-value, ultimate bearing capacities, and high density values, and vice versa for the first layer. The standard NEHRP site class was B (rocks). These parameters are ordinarily used as key indications and serve as significant inputs for any future work.

Integrated geophysical methods for boulder delineation to improve mining

AbstractNear‐surface boulders can pose serious challenges to opencast mining. They often introduce complexities, delays in drilling, blasting and excavation programmes, which subsequently decrease mining efficiency, increase mining risks and costs. The location of subsurface boulders and the identification of other geological features that may impact mining activities (e.g. fractures, the presence of iron‐rich ultramafic pegmatites and the variation in weathering across a mining region) are necessary to reduce the challenges posed by these geological features, therefore optimizing mining efficiency. In this study, magnetics, electrical resistivity tomography, seismic refraction tomography, ground penetrating radar and borehole data are integrated for boulder delineation and mapping of other geological features that may impact mining using an unmined section at Tharisa Mine, Bushveld Complex (South Africa), as a test site. The results obtained from the different geophysical techniques are found to complement each other and successfully delineate boulders, fractures, iron‐rich ultramafic pegmatites and the variation in weathering and layering across the area. The incorporation of geophysical results can thus improve mining efficiency, while reducing mining risks and costs.