bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Selecting the location, and the initial investigation of the SERC soft clay test bed site
Authors: Hawkins A. B. , Larnach W. J. , Lloyd I. M. , Nash D. F. T. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
The Science and Engineering Research Council recognized the need for a soft clay test bed site in Britain. The agreed specification was for a site of at least five hectares of normally consolidated material with a plasticity index greater than 20% and a thickness greater than 10 m. The paper describes the philosophy behind the selection process and details the feasibility studies undertaken at Brean and Newport on the Severn Estuary, Swale on the Thames Estuary and Bothkennar on the Forth Estuary. As a result of these investigations the Bothkennar site was chosen. The consistency of the Carse Clay deposits in the Forth Estuary is shown to be related to the similar rates of eustatic and isostatic rise in that area between about 8500 and 6500 years BP. The southeast corner of the site has more silt-rich/laminated material, believed to be related to a meander infill. The site level is slightly lower than the immediate hinterland, suggesting the effects of isostatic uplift have been compounded by flood tide erosion, which it is believed has removed the upper part of the original Carse Clay deposits.
Estimation of the groundwater resources of the Berkshire Downs supported by mathematical modeling
Authors: Rushton K. R. , Connorton B. J. , Tomlinson L. M. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
This paper describes a study of the Chalk aquifer of the Berkshire Downs. Extensive fieldwork provided sufficient information for the development of a mathematical model of the aquifer system. Particular emphasis was placed on the representation of the variation of changing transmissivity with saturated depth and the simulation of streams and rivers; flows from the Chalk to the Upper Greensand were also found to be important in certain locations. Comparisons between field and modelled values of both groundwater flow and groundwater head showed good agreement. The model was then used for predictive purposes with particular emphasis on the use of groundwater for river augmentation.
In-field entry of geotechnical data in borehole logging to a hand-held portable computer system
Authors: Ward C. R. , Damtoro J. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
A series of BASIC programs is described to allow entry, validation and checking of coded lithological descriptions, additional prose-form notes and quantitative geotechnical data to a hand-held portable computer during on-site logging of geological drill holes for engineering purposes. The programs also permit the production of a written borehole log, in the field if necessary, along with tabulations of geotechnical data and a comprehensive graphic representation of the drill hole. Use of such a system avoids some of the errors that may arise in procedures which involve transcription from written notes in a later keypunch operation. The information can be transferred from the portable unit to an office-based facility, when required, for further processing by a more comprehensive installation.
Susceptibility of Coal Measures mudstone to slurrying during tunnelling
Authors: Varley P. M. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
X-ray diffraction was used to determine the mineralogy of the Carboniferous mudstone rocks on a major tunnelling project in Sheffield. These data were compared to the rock's potential to breakdown, using the slake durability and the Duncan free swelling tests. The limitations of each test are discussed. Particular attention is paid to the effects of weathering, strength and time on the test data. Two comparative indices are proposed for the determination of a mudrock's potential to form a slurried spoil under mechanical excavation.
A site selection case study using terrain analysis in conjunction with an evaluation matrix
Authors: Broster B. E. , Bruce I. G. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
Air photo interpretation (API) has long been recognized as a fundamental procedure for classifying surficial (superficial) materials in the reconnaissance stage of site evaluation. The results from an API study can help with the rapid assessment of the relative suitability of sites for development and hence reduce costly field work. This paper presents a case history which uses the comprehensive ELUC terrain classification system and API to define the geological framework for seven potential industrial sites. Prior to field investigations the sites were ranked for their suitability using an evaluation matrix. Engineering factors were subjectively quantified relative to geotechnical considerations and entered in the evaluation matrix. This enabled sites to be ranked so that subsequent ground exploration could be concentrated on the most suitable sites. The successful application of the method suggests that it can be used elsewhere as a cost-effective procedure for engineering terrain assessment in the process of site selection.
Swell behaviour of arid climate shales from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Orhan Erol A. , Dhowian Abdulmohsin 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
Arid and hot climatic conditions influence the development of surficial (superficial) sediments by aggravating the desiccation and weathering processes. Such environmental factors promote the occurrence of expansive soils in the Middle East. This study deals with the nature and extent of expansive soil problems in major development areas of Saudi Arabia where severe damage has been experienced in numerous projects. The expansive soils primarily consist of shales of Tertiary age which occur in a narrow strip adjacent to the western boundary of the Arabian Shield. Profile characteristics, geotechnical properties and swell behaviour of the shales are presented. Model equations were developed by nonlinear regression analysis for prediction of swell parameters from easily determined geotechnical indices.
Land subsidence in the AI-Dahr residential area in Kuwait: a case history study
Authors: AI-Rifaiy I. A. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
Four cylindrical sinkholes occurred between April 1988 and June 1989 in a residential area located 27 km south of Kuwait City. The physiographic and geological conditions of their development and the methods of survey followed to detect potential subsurface cavities in the area are discussed. The major sinkhole is 15 m in diameter and 31 m deep; the others are a few metres in size. A mechanism of migrating sinkholes is suggested, where the upper elastic sediments have been moved down into cavities of the underlying Dammam Limestone. Such movement could have been triggered by garden irrigation and urbanization. A conceptual model is introduced to explain the mechanism of this subsidence. Microgravity techniques were applied using a La Coste Model-D gravimeter to detect areas of subsurface weakness. Negative anomalies in the order of 80 microgals were recorded and considered to indicate underground cavities or zones of contrasted mass-deficiencies representing high risk areas. Moderate anomalies were also recorded and attributed to poor compaction of the ground prior to construction.
Continuous loading oedometer testing of soils
Authors: Davison L. R. , Atkinson J. H. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
The conventional oedometer test specified in BS 1377: 1975, in which the loads are applied in increments, is simple and robust, but provides relatively little data on the compression and consolidation parameters of the soil or on its preconsolidation or yield pressure. Continuous loading oedometer tests are capable of measuring continuous variations of compression and consolidation parameters and can often identify the yield pressure more precisely. Data logging and control systems developed for stress path testing systems have been applied to oedometer tests and it is now possible to carry out continuous loading tests routinely. Analysis of the test data is relatively straightforward. Tests on reconstituted soil samples demonstrate that the measured parameters do not depend significantly on the type of test.
The influence of changing groundwater levels on the geotechnical behaviour of desert sands
Authors: Al-Sanad H. A. , Shaqour F. M. , Hencher S. R. , Lumsden A. C. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
The salt-cemented soils which occur at shallow depths in Kuwait owe much of their shear strength to their cementation and tests on natural and artificially cemented sands show that considerable loss of strength may result from soaking and throughflow of fresh water. The evidence that groundwater is rising in Kuwait due to leaking services and over-irrigation in the expanding urban areas therefore has major implications for the future integrity of structures.
Geomaterials
Authors: Fookes P. G. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
Definitions of geomaterials and related topics are given and inter-relationships between geomaterials and engineering activities discussed in relation to practice.
Weathering of rock mass material in geological time can have a direct and important influence on the durability of aggregate or construction stone in engineering time. Also the production processes in construction procedures can have an important influence on the mechanical strength of geomaterials. Durability, i.e. the rock's ability to resist degradation during its working life, is dependent on a number of important parameters; the original stage of weathering of the rock mass, the degree of imposed stresses during winning, production, placing and in service, as well as future climatic, topographic and hydrological environments. No one engineering test can be used as an absolute predictor of potential durability but a combination of engineering tests, such as water absorption, specific gravity, point load strength, modified AIV and magnesium sulphate soundness, provide the most reliable indicator of durability.
Rock quality in coastal engineering
Authors: Poole A. B. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
The majority of coastal and shoreline defence structures use large quantities of rock in their construction which will be subjected to environmental conditions quite different from rock used for other purposes. Such materials are required to conform to specific size, shape and grading criteria by the designers of coastal defence structures and rock properties such as density will also be required for the design equations. The severity of the marine environmental conditions will also necessitate adequate levels of strength, abrasion resistance and durability.
A quality assurance scheme for marine structures must take account of all these requirements. Test evaluations must be carried out at an early stage in the design process when alternative materials are being compared and again at the quality control stage of extraction as well as during the construction. Tests can be divided into four groups: those concerned with the geometric properties such as size, shape and grading; those concerned with intact rock strength and resistance to abrasion; with the intrinsic properties of the rock; and those related to durability characteristics such as weathering degradation.
Many of the tests used to evaluate these properties were originally designed for aggregate materials, but recently two tests have been developed specifically for rock to be used in coastal defence structures. These procedures attempt to test those characteristics of the rock materials most affected by the degradation processes found in the marine environment and to offer a method of predicting the in-service performance of the rock with time.
Predictions of block size distribution for quarrying
Authors: Wang H. , Latham J.-P. , Poole A. B. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
The in situ block size and shape parameters of a rock mass with discontinuities are of signifcance for determining whether an existing or virgin quarry is suitable for armourstone production and for designing an appropriate blast pattern. A method for predicting these parameters is presented in this paper, which includes a detailed discontinuity survey technique and computer determination of the blocks dissected by the discontinuities. The applications of the method to simulated discontinuity data and natural joint data are discussed.
Evaluating the strength and deformability of sandstones
Authors: Dyke C. G. , Dobereiner L. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
The mineralogy, texture and wave velocity characteristics of a range of sandstones were studied to aid the understanding and prediction of geotechnical properties. From a consideration of volumetric strain variations it is apparent that the weaker rocks display a behaviour markedly different from the stronger rocks. In the weaker rocks, the elastic range is limited to very low stress levels. The sensitivity of the strength and volumetric strain to sample moisture content has also been evaluated and shown to be an important variable in rock deformability behaviour; a decrease in moisture content tends to suppress the onset of dilatancy and microcracking, leading to an increase in peak strength.
Microscopic characteristics, in particular in the areas of grain contact and cementation, were successfully used to explain the strength and deformability behaviour of a wide range of sandstones. Practical index parameters for assessing the strength and deformability of sandstones are outlined. Characterization by S waves shows potential as a complement to the index tests of saturated moisture content and point load for weak and strong sandstones respectively.
Sandstones as geomaterials
Authors: Hawkins A. B. , McConnell B. J. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
The lithological characteristics and dynamic and static test results are presented for six sandstone types ranging in age from Lower Old Red Sandstone to Triassic. Attention is drawn to the differing geomechanical properties of these sandstones and hence the variation in their suitability as construction geomaterials. Comparisons are made between a number of the static properties of the sandstones and their geomechanical performance.
The paper emphasizes the importance of considering those sandstone properties relevant to particular applications. An indication is given of the suitability of the six examples of sandstones to the main construction geomaterial uses: building stone, armourstone, rip-rap, aggregate sub-base, aggregate dressing and concrete.
A note on undulatory extinction of quartz in granite
Authors: West G. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
Undulatory extinction of quartz has become important in engineering geology because of its supposed indication of an alkali-silica reactive aggregate. This note reviews the small amount of quantitative data that is available on undulatory extinction of quartz grains in granites and granitic rocks. It is considered that undulatory extinction of quartz occurs as a result of deformation of the rock after its formation and that the greater the cumulative deformation the larger the angle, hence it is a useful indicator of the orogenic history of the rock. Preliminary measurements are reported of the undulatory extinction angle of quartz in some British granites suggesting a field worthy of further study. The note concludes with a discussion of the practical implications of the subject.
Radon in the surface waters of southwest England and its bearing on uranium distribution, fault and fracture systems and human health
Authors: Heath M. J. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
Radon is a natural radioactive gas produced by the decay of uranium and thorium in rocks and soils. High surface radon concentrations are commonly associated with high levels of uranium in underlying rocks. High radon levels can also occur in groundwater, even in rocks with normal crustal uranium concentrations. The discharge of groundwater via faults and fractures can produce radon anomalies unrelated to the distribution of uranium. The surface distribution of radon is therefore influenced by the distribution of uranium and of transport pathways along faults and fractures.
The principal radon isotope (Rn-222, half-life 3.825 days) is capable of migrating significant distances from its source, both as a gas and in solution. In the gaseous form radon can migrate into houses where, in high concentrations, it can represent a health hazard.
The distribution of radon in streams in several areas of southwest England has been investigated. The results show a clear association of high radon levels with the uranium-enriched granite of the region, although this may simply reflect the high fracture permeability of the granite rather than its uranium enrichment with a strong influence of major fracture systems. With regard to radon as a potential health hazard, both source and transport pathways must be identified if high-risk areas are to be located. Surveys of radon in surface waters may provide a useful and speedy technique for the broad identification of such areas.
Methane studies for the Channel Tunnel
Authors: Warren C. D. , Birch G. P. , Bennett A. , Varley P. M. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
The possibility of encountering dangerous gases during the construction of a tunnel, or in the completed works, needs to be addressed during the investigation and construction stages of a project. The presence of explosive or toxic gases is significant in relation to the health and safety of the workforce and the selection of appropriate plant and equipment to be employed. In recognition of this and the fact that the Channel Tunnel is underlain by coal bearing strata, a detailed desk study was commissioned to review the geological conditions, structure and history of the formations at and below the tunnel horizon. This included information from recent site investigations in the Channel and was supplemented by gas detection surveys conducted within the tunnel workings.
A low-cost dedicated multi-level groundwater sampling system
Authors: Bishop P. K. , Burston M. W. , Tong Chen  , Lerner D. N. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
An important aspect of any detailed groundwater quality study is determining the vertical distribution of pollutants. This may be achieved by multi-level sampling from purpose designed boreholes. This study describes a relatively inexpensive system of dedicated sampling where gas-driven water samplers (incorporating vibrating wire piezometers) and unsaturated zone gas samplers are installed in conventional plastic water well casing. One important advantage of this system is that all functional units are housed within a protective screen, which offers both protection and improved potential for satisfactory backfilling. Experiments to determine the performance of gas-driven samplers when collecting water contaminated with chlorinated hydrocarbon solvents indicated that quantitatively accurate results are obtained using short lengths of nylon tubing. However, long lengths of nylon tubing introduced significant negative bias in solvent concentrations and it is recommended that a material with lower absorption properties be chosen to collect deep samples. The system was successfully installed on a contaminated industrial site. Significant variations in solvent pollution profiles together with a substantial vertical hydraulic gradient were defined and such hydrochemical and hydraulic information may be simply collected on a routine basis. Such data could not easily be gained from open boreholes, indicating the potential of the dedicated system in groundwater quality investigations.
Defining the catchment of a borehole in an unconsolidated valley aquifer with limited data
Authors: Lerner D. N. , Kumar P. B. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
Borehole catchments need to be defined for groundwater protection in general and for the control of nitrates in particular. There are rarely enough data to make an accurate definition. The catchment of a borehole which draws from the glacial infill aquifer in a Shropshire valley has been studied, with emphasis on how sensitive the catchment is to variations in hydrological and hydrogeological parameters. The amount and distribution of recharge are the most important controls on the catchment. In this example, 250f the borehole abstraction is derived from valley side recharge, that is runoff from the valley sides which recharges the margins of the aquifer. Thus part of the catchment lies off the aquifer. Despite the limited data available, a zone which probably accounts for about 650f the borehole's abstraction can be defined, which would be sufficient to justify a nitrate control scheme. The complete catchment cannot be accurately defined however and the area covered by the possible range of catchment boundaries is 25% larger than the ‘best’ estimate. Additional field data would be needed to narrow this range significantly.
Assessment of the potential for tectonic fault rupture for high-level nuclear waste repositories
Authors: Swan F. H. , Stepp J. Carl , McGuire Robin K. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
Active faults that extend to near the Earth's surface may pose a direct threat to the safety of engineered structures. Usually the threat can be mitigated by taking appropriate siting or design actions. Such actions require a thorough understanding of the characteristics and magnitude of the faulting hazard based on detailed field investigations of the site locality and an adequate assessment of the characteristics of past faulting in the site's tectonic regime. An active fault may be defined in purely geological terms as one that has exhibited displacement in the present tectonic regime. However, for engineering considerations an active fault is usually defined in terms of a specified time of most recent movement, or a longer time in which multiple movements have taken place. Deterministic or probabilistic approaches are used to assess faulting hazard for the purpose of engineering design consideration. Support is building for the use of probabilistic procedures alone or combined with deterministic procedures to assess faulting hazard for design of critical facilities.
Flow heterogeneity in a fractured rock: a case study from the Stripa Project
Authors: Holmes D. C. 
Published: November 2007

Abstract
Part of the on-going research effort of the international Stripa Project, based at the Stripa Mine in Sweden, involves a site characterization and validation programme (SCV). This comprises investigation of a block of fractured crystalline rock some 250 × 250 × 100 m in extent penetrated by 12 angled boreholes drilled from tunnels in the mine. The SCV is intended to represent the type of investigation which might occur at a repository site during construction to identify significant flow pathways through the rock mass as well as volumes of ‘good rock’. A staged approach of investigation has been employed in which periods of measurement have alternated with periods of conceptual and mathematical modelling. Predictions have been checked by additional measurements. A variety of single borehole geophysical (radar and seismic), geological mapping, geochemical and hydrogeological (a novel focused packer system) techniques have been employed in the early stages to construct a conceptual model of fracture flow within the rock mass. Mathematical models, based on a fracture-network approach, have been constructed from these data and used to predict fluid flux into the purpose-built boreholes and tunnels. The measured flows, together with transmissivity distribution information derived from inter-borehole hydraulic interference testing, were compared with the predictions and showed good agreement, building confidence in this approach. New models of flux and transport have been developed which incorporate the additional measurements.