Research Activities: 2006

 

Geophysical Characterization of Tunnel Construction Site, Louisville, Kentucky
 

Status
Complete    View Report:  PDF
 

Sequential Number

 R202
 

Identification Number

 00017730
 

Matching Research Agency

Fuller, Mossbarger, Scott and May Engineering, Inc.
 

Principal Investigator
Dr. Neil Anderson, Professor
125 McNutt Hall, Department of Geology & Geophysics
Missouri University of Science & Technology
Rolla, MO 65409
p 573-341-4852
f 573-341-6935
nanders@mst.edu
 

Student Involvement

 Graduate and undergraduate students will be involved in the project.
 

Project Objective

The objective is to use electrical resistivity and refraction tomography tools to image the subsurface along length of the proposed tunnel.  Please see accompanying “Revised Proposed Geophysical Investigation.”
 

Project Abstract

MST proposes to acquire electrical resistivity and refraction tomographyat the KDOT tunnel site, Louisville, Kentucky. These geophysical data will be processed, analyzed and interpreted with the objective of mapping and characterizing soil and bedrock at this construction site. The main project deliverables will be a suite of maps and geologic cross-sections depicting variations in soil thicknesses and lithology and rock quality. Maps showing the locations and orientations of solution-widened joints and other potential engineering hazards will also be presented.  
 

Task Description

N/A
 

Anticipated Benefits

 The main project deliverables will be of great utility to the Kentucky Department of Transportation in terms of designing suitable foundations for the new bridge spans. The project will give MST researchers the opportunity to develop expertise in the field of “karst geophysics.” 

Modal Orientation

 N/A
 

Milestones
Project Start Date: 7/1/2007
Project End Date: 6/30/2010
 

Relationship to other Research/Projects

 Faculty are engaged in a number of externally-funded projects that involve the non-destructive imaging of soils and bedrock in karst terrain.
 

Technology Transfer Activities

 Expertise with respect to acquisition, processing, interpretation and application of geophysical technologies will be shared via publications and presentations.
 

Transportation Research Board Keywords

Non-destructive imaging, non-invasive imaging, technology transfer, education, echo sounding, sub-bottom profiling