bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Working Party Report on Engineering Geophysics
Authors: Hooper J. W. 
Published: November 2007

meeting report

This meeting was the first major public airing of the scope of the Working Party Report on Engineering Geophysics, providing the opportunity for all interested parties to participate actively in discussing the organization of the Report. To facilitate discussion at the meeting, all Engineering Group members had been circulated with a detailed breakdown of the main and subsidiary headings of the Report. A selection of engineering geophysics users, rather than practitioners, had also been circulated with selected chapters. It is hoped that the final Report will be published in the
Quarterly Journal of Engineering Geology.

Mr D. N. Holt, the Engineering Group Chairman, opened the meeting with reference to the high standing in which past working party reports are held, and expressed the hope that the standard would be maintained by this report. Mr Holt then introduced Mr P. W. McDowell, the Working Party Chairman.
Mr McDowell outlined the scope of the Report, stating that it was intended not only as a state of the art document, but also as a practical guide for the use of geophysics in site investigation for engineering works. Its main divisions would be:
Specific targets
Engineering applications
Soil and rock properties
Planning of surveys.
Care had been taken not to delve too deeply into contractual matters, but as the state of the art is determined by the way in which geophysical work is contracted out, some comment was necessary. The Report would also serve as a reference source, with a comprehensive bibliography as well
The flood plain deposits of the Lower Thames
Authors: Marsland A. 
Published: November 2007

Summary

The flood plain of the tidal Thames is underlain with soft clays, peats, silts and sands which in turn rest on gravel. These deposits vary in thickness from a few to tens of metres. As with all soft deposits considerable care is required in order to obtain good quality samples for geotechnical testing. The wide range of soils which often occur down single soil profiles and from location to location can make it very difficult to assign soil parameters for design purposes and careful categorization is required. The presence of varying percentages of organic matter as well as silt and sand lenses in the clays can lead to difficulties in the interpretation of
in situ
tests such as the field vane.

While the foundations for large structures are taken down to the underlying gravel and chalk, problems arise from services and smaller foundations. Stability problems arise during the design and construction of road and flood embankments. Since the gravel aquifer is exposed in the river channel along much of the length, pore water pressures transmitted through gravel during high tides can affect the stability of flood banks. High pore water pressures in the gravel can also lead to instability of excavations unless the pressures are relieved by groundwater lowering. When it is necessary to lower the water pressures for construction purposes consideration needs to be given to the additional settlement of adjacent ground and small structures founded on the alluvium.
The paper looks at the distribution of the various soil types, gives typical geotechnical properties and discusses some engineering implications.
Locating potential borehole sites in a discordant flow regime in the Chalk aquifer at Lulworth using integrated geophysical surveys
Authors: Houston J. F. T. , Eastwood J. C. , Cosgrove T. K. P. 
Published: November 2007

Summary
Groundwater flow in the Chalk Aquifer at Lulworth is discordant with the surface drainage pattern as a result of flow reversal consequent upon coastal breaching of the aquifer. Siting of boreholes for water supply is thus made difficult, especially since flow is confined to very narrow zones. The use of geophysical techniques has enabled such zones to be identified with varying degrees of certainty. It is important not to place too much reliance on a single technique and to integrate such surveys into an overall appreciation of the evolution of the groundwater flow regime in order to obtain maximum benefits.
A method of reducing the cement content of two stabilized Niger delta soils
Authors: Akpokodje E. G. 
Published: November 2007

Summary
Cement is an effective agent in stabilizing the fine grained Niger delta soils to provide base course material for roads. The amount of cement required to stabilize the clays/silty clays and the uniformly graded medium to fine sand can be reduced by as much as 50 0f the two soil types are mixed in equal proportions (1:1 ratio) before cement stabilization.
Problems in the recognition of seawater intrusion by chemical means: an example of apparent chemical equivalence
Authors: Tellam J. H. , Lloyd J. W. 
Published: November 2007

Summary
The determination of the origin of saline groundwaters is sometimes crucial for the successful exploitation of an aquifer system. Although hydrochemical methods provide a direct approach to the problem, modification of intruding water can often give rise to interpretational difficulties. By means of a case history from the Permo-Triassic sandstone aquifer of the Widnes-Manchester area, the problems encountered are illustrated. The major ion chemistries of (a) saline waters originating from upconing of deep old saline water and (b) saline groundwaters resulting from recent intrusion are compared using computer modelling techniques with a third group of waters of unknown provenance. It is concluded that in some cases an apparent chemical equivalence, in which the same chemical product can arise through more than one set of processes, can occur; in such cases major ion analyses alone are not of use in determining groundwater origins. Explicit discussion of equivalence problems has rarely been undertaken in the hydrochemical literature, and the results presented have implications beyond saline intrusion studies.
Creating a geological database for planning tunnels under London
Authors: Rosenbaum M. S. , Warren C. D. 
Published: November 2007

Summary
The creation in 1972 of a simple computer database for Greater London has enabled rapid assessment of geological conditions to be carried out. The use of the database for an appraisal of tunnelling conditions for potential underground road and rail routes is described. In terms of computer technology, the system described uses well established techniques but the ground investigation examples draw attention to the merits of employing database management and surface analysis software libraries.
Discussion on ‘Completely weathered granite—soil or rock?’ by M. D. Howat
Authors: Gamon T. I. 
Published: November 2007

T. I. G
amon
writes: The ‘completely weathered granite’ studied by
Howat (1985)
represents a transitional stage in the weathering sequence between fresh granite and residual soil. It has been recommended that the term ‘completely’ be superseded by the term ‘extremely’ (
Dearman 1984
), as the weathering processs at this stage is far from complete. Continued weathering results in a collapse of the soil skeleton with a loss of microfabric and continued discolouration of the material to a characteristic dark reddish brown. It is likely that the finer textured material and the discoloration observed in the mass structure is the residual soil picking out relict discontinuities.

Whilst the depth of weathering can extend to 100 m, the depth of the interface between the rock and soil zones, the weathering front (
Mabbutt 1961
), is generally at a depth of 30 to 40 m in the Hong Kong Granite. Below the weathering front the visible signs of weathering are generally concentrated parallel to existing discontinuities. A typical weathering profile for the Hong Kong Granite is illustrated in (Fig. 1) (
Gamon & Finn 1984
).

To compare the data obtained from several different boreholes, in which the weathering front has been encountered at different depths, it is more useful to plot the data against depth ratio rather than depth. The depth ratio is defined as the ratio of depth of the SPT test or dry density determination to the depth of the weathering front.
The relationship between SPT ‘N value and depth ratio (Fig. 2) is
Stabilization of boulders at a hillslope site in Hong Kong
Authors: Grigg P. V. , Wong K. M. 
Published: November 2007

Summary
In Hong Kong, there is a high incidence of surface boulders on hillside slopes. Recently attention has been focused on the neutralization of these boulders where they may affect downslope developments. A study to assess and stabilize a boulder field adjacent to one site is described and discussed. The study considered the mode of development of the boulder field, development of a boulder stabilization philosophy, undertaking of a ground survey, and design of the various stabilization measures.
A simple approach to the estimation of soil compaction parameters
Authors: Al-Khafaji A. N. 
Published: November 2007

Summary
In this paper the role of Atterberg limits and clay content on parameters of soil compaction is examined. The effect of both Atterberg limits and clay content on Proctor maximum dry density and optimum moisture content are determined quantitatively. Using curve fitting techniques empirical equations are derived and charts are prepared.

From these charts it is possible to estimate the potential optimum moisture content and maximum dry density for standard Proctor compaction from the knowledge of both liquid limit and clay content and less accurately from the knowledge of liquid limit only. The chart shown in
Fig. 8
is used when only liquid limit is known and the chart in
Fig. 13
is used when both liquid limit and clay content are known.
The use of stochastic models in the assessment of a geological database
Authors: Rosenbaum M. S. 
Published: November 2007

Summary
The most appropriate method of assessing ground investigation information will depend on the nature of the investigation and the character and quantity of data. There are significant advantages to collecting such data in a quantified form since computer-based databases can then be established, facilitating their rapid assessment. Methods of assessing an engineering geological database are described. Particular attention is paid to the use of stochastic models for analysis, which are applicable to data whose distribution can be described in terms of a random function.
Cause and significance of heave at Llandough Hospital, Cardiff—a case history of ground floor heave due to gypsum growth
Authors: Hawkins A. B. , Pinches G. M. 
Published: November 2007

Summary
Inspection of some roof areas at Llandough Hospital, Cardiff indicated that the brick walls had moved outward at eaves level. A level survey of the ground floor showed approximately 60 mm of arching. The paper describes the structure, the site investigation to assess the cause of the damage and geochemical and microbiological tests on the black calcareous pyritic mudstones of the underlying Westbury Formation. The paper concludes that the heave was caused by volume change related to the growth of gypsum.
Migration of landfill gas and its control by grouting—a case history
Authors: Raybould J. G. , Anderson D. J. 
Published: November 2007

Summary
Methane gas detected in and around properties in a residential area of St Helens could have originated from one of several sources: gas distribution mains, faulty sewers, shallow coal seams and a nearby landfill site. Investigations eliminated some of these, and a landfill source was eventually confirmed by radiocarbon dating. Drilling, together with the records of an abandoned opencast prospect, showed that the gas was migrating through ancient shallow coal workings, possibly reaching the surface via a fault zone. Temporary remedial works were carried out to ventilate the mine workings in the residential area. The permanent remedy consisted of grouting the workings along the boundary of the landfill site to prevent further lateral migration, together with on-site methane ventilation.
Computer analysis of lithostratigraphic data derived from geotechnical records
Authors: Day R. B. , Tucker E. V. , Wood L. A. 
Published: November 2007

Summary
The database GEOSHARE is used to demonstrate some practical applications of a geotechnical database and illustrate the potential benefits of establishing a national computer database of site investigation records. GEOSHARE is an easy to use (menu driven) system in which data of only a purely factual nature is stored. The data storage system is designed to accommodate the complete range of site investigation records in forms that are merely transcripts of the originals. Flexible report and graphic display procedures are described. Three geological case studies are discussed to demonstrate the value of computer analysis of the stored data to the engineer.
Discussion on ‘Mire morphology and the properties and behaviour of some British and foreign peats’ by N. B. Hobbs
Authors: Burwash A. L. , Weisner W. R. 
Published: November 2007

The writers would like to touch briefly on some recent North American development in peat classification and testing. In 1979, the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), formed a sub-committee on peats and organic soils. Its mandate was to develop standards for geotechnical, energy and horticultural purposes. One of the committee's first tasks was to develop a method for distinguishing peats from other organic soils. Their conclusion was that an organic soil should not be called a peat unless its organic content was 75% or greater.
The next logical step in the process was to develop a geotechnical classification system for peats (as they are defined above). In 1984 the writers developed a simple system of descriptions and engineering correlations. To date several North American organizations have used the system and provided their comments. Comments from overseas are also welcome at any time. Steps in the descriptive process are determination of:
organic content
degree of humification by the Von Post method
basic fibre details.

No botanical knowledge is required to use the system. Simple descriptions such as black, amorphous peat (H
6
) or brown nonwoody fine fibrous peat (H
2
), result.

Although it is recognized that morphology is an important aspect of the engineering properties of peatlands, only certain aspects have been incorporated into a simplistic classification system. Based on our experience, only on rare occasions would an ecologist be consulted to examine a peat profile for engineering applications. It is agreed, however, that engineers need to acquire additional skills in
The use of the geotechnical database ‘Geoshare’ for site investigation data management
Authors: Raper J. F. , Wainwright D. E. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract

A geotechnical database called Geoshare has been developed at Queen Mary College to act as a comprehensive data management tool for site investigation data (Wood
et al.
1982). It is capable of storing and searching ‘free format’ geotechnical records, and is designed to handle all aspects of data management in a site investigation project, from the input of the records to the analysis of the retrieved information. The application of Geoshare to the reconstruction of a superficial deposit stratigraphy is demonstrated, showing the use of the retrieval facilities as applied to borehole data collected in the site investigation for a trunk road scheme in S. Wales. The problems of poor borehole/trial pit log descriptions are dicusssed in the light of the use of Geoshare, and a software compatible terminological format for log descriptions is suggested, adapted from an engineering based revision of British Standard 5930 (1981).
The design of a high pressure and temperature oedometer
Authors: Rosenbaum M. S. , Clarke B. A. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
The design is described of a high pressure and temperature oedometer capable of simulating the migration of waste fluids through argillaceous sediments. Innovatory features are the methods of controlling the pressure and flow rate of the pore fluids, the hardfacing of the piston and cylinder containing the specimen and the provision of dynamic sealing which is stable at elevated temperatures and pressures over long periods of time.
Discussion on ‘Electrical conductivity and saline concentrations in arid land groundwaters’ by J. C. Doornkamp & H. A. M. Ibrahim
Authors: Walton N. R. G. 
Published: November 2007

N. R. G. W
alton
writes: Doornkamp & Ibrahim's brief article, suggesting the use of simple electrical conductivity measurements instead of the more difficult and time-consuming chemical analyses for major troublesome anions such as chloride and sulphate, appears of interest to those in the engineering profession who would prefer a simple ‘EC-fix‘ type solution to salinity problems in both construction and irrigation engineering.

However, the article lacks fundamental credibility to groundwater scientists both in its presentation of obviously erroneous data and in its simplicity of approach to groundwater chemistry—a subject which the authors appear to discover for the first time when posing the key question for future research: ‘which environmental parameters control the specific relationships between electrical conductivity and the ionic concentrations of selected salts?’
Firstly, the axes of the graphs shown in Fig. 1 are obviously incorrectly labelled, since although middle-eastern groundwater is salty, it is not so salty as to be found on graphs from 0 to 200 000 micromhos/cm in stepsof 40 000! Dividing these figures by l00 would make them suitable for UK groundwaters, but middle-east ground water would fit better by dividing only by 10, giving an EC scale of 0 to 20 000 micromhos/cm.

The difficulty now comes in trying to sort out what has gone wrong with the anion axes, since these are also both patently absurd. Dividing the sulphate axis by 10 appears to give reasonable results, so that a Bahrain groundwater with EC = 10 000 would give SO
4
= 12 m
Groundwater abstraction—construction, operation and maintenance: an international overview
Authors: Stoner R. F. , Bakiewicz W. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
The rapid expansion of groundwater abstraction over the last forty years is outlined and the reasons for the varying degrees of success of groundwater projects, both for irrigation and water supply, are reviewed, highlighting some of the problem areas. Despite the current pause in groundwater development, opportunities still exist for expansion, particularly in the fields of rural water supply, pollution control and water quality. Recent improvements and current practices in investigation techniques, drilling, design, materials and pumps are summarized. The changing nature of the work and the training of its practitioners are discussed, leading to the conclusion that one of the most positive improvements is better training and greater expertise in groundwater, throughout the world. This aspect is emphasized by the high standard of the numerous technical publications concerned with groundwater. A description of the interaction between the roles of engineers and geologists stresses the value of interdisciplinary cooperation and the sharing of responsibilities.
Slope instability in a profile of weathered norite
Authors: Dobie M. J. D. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract

On Christmas Day 1982, a combination of heavy rain and a broken water supply pipe resulted in significant mass movement on a hillside in the Bukit Gombak area of Singapore. Subsequent investigations revealed a sliding mass of about 50000 m
3
, approximately 100 m from crest to toe in plan with a height of 22 m. Average slope angle was about 12°. Ground conditions consisted of fill overlying residual soil derived from the underlying norite bedrock. This resulted in a situation where heavy rainfall caused rapid rises in ground water levels followed by very slow dissipation. Mass movements occurred when water levels in the slope rose above a certain value. From observations and local knowledge of the area, it was concluded that the mass movements had been taking place over many years previously and were still continuing. The geometry of the actual failure surface was not established, however analyses of a number of possible slip surfaces indicated an average ø’ of less than 18°. Two ring shear tests on samples of residual soil from the slope gave values of ø
r
’ a little below 15°. Thus, although the data measured are limited, these results suggest that the stability of the slope was controlled by residual strength. Furthermore, the case history demonstrates how permeability distribution within a slope can have a major influence on its stability.
Soil properties and pavement performance in the Niger Delta
Authors: Arumala J. O. , Akpokodje E. G. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
The pavement conditions of roads in the Niger Delta and the geotechnical properties of the soil materials used in constructing them were studied in an attempt to find permanent solutions to the recurrent widespread pavement failures in the region. The most severe surface deformations, pavement cracking and failures occur in the seasonally flooded fresh/salt water swamps because of the high water table, poor drainage and the very fine-grained (> 70 0.000000ines) silty clays/clays used. It is suggested that a pavement design consisting of well compacted, subgrade/sub-base, cement stabilized base course, paved shoulders and good drainage would ensure good performance and avoid the expensive haulage of better base materials from long distances.
The application of shape descriptor analysis to the study of aggregate wear
Authors: Latham J.-P. , Poole A. B. 
Published: November 2007

Two identical samples of fresh rock aggregate have been artificially abraded in two rotating mills. Two subsamples consisting of 16 pieces from each mill were traced throughout 90 h of gentle abrasion and were examined at various stages. The examination used a video camera to capture data from outlines of silhouettes of the 16 pieces. Maximum projections were analysed using Fourier and Fractal methods to produce shape descriptor values which monitored shape, texture and roughness at different stages of the abrasion process. Full accounts of the methods employed are reported. Random projections were analysed in less detail. Reproducibility of the textural descriptors between the two subsamples is good when examined by maximum and by random projections, the latter method showing more scatter.
The objectivity and speed of these methods of shape quantification have already been exploited in other disciplines, but this study appears to be the first time they have been used to assess the performance of aggregates and more specifically, armourstone used in coastal protection works. The results are discussed in this context.