Springer LINK: Environmental Geology - Abstract Volume 27 Issue 3 (1996) pp 219-225

Environmental Geology

ISSN: 0943-0105 (printed version)
ISSN: 1432-0495 (electronic version)

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Abstract Volume 27 Issue 3 (1996) pp 219-225

Ground-penetrating radar detection of small-scale channels, joints and faults in the unconsolidated sediments of the Atlantic Coastal Plain

D.E. Wyatt (1), T.J. Temples (2)

(1) Westinghouse Savannah River Company, P.O. Box 616, Aiken, South Carolina 29802, USA
(2) U.S. Department of Energy-Savannah River Site, P.O. Box A, Aiken, South Carolina 29801, USA

Received 17 April 1995 / Accepted 26 June 1995

Abstract The geological characterization of the shallow subsurface in the unconsolidated sediments of the Atlantic Coastal Plain, and other unconsolidated sediment regimes, may involve jointing, faulting, and channelling not readily detectable by conventional drilling and mapping. A knowledge of these features is required in environmental, geotechnical, and geomorphological studies. Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) may be used to routinely map these structures. Three principal shallow subsurface features are readily detectable using GPR: paleochannels, joints or fractures, and faults. The detection of paleochannels is dependent on the scale of the GPR survey and the attitude of the channel within the survey area. Channel morphological features such as scour surfaces, point bars, and thalwegs are observable. Joints and fractures are more difficult to detect depending upon size, patterns, orientation, and fill material. Vertical joints may not be visible to radar unless they are wider than the sampling interval or are filled with radar-opaque materials such as limonite. Angled joints or fractures may be distinguished by an apparent continuous reflector on the radar profile. Faulting on radar profiles may be observed by the offset of reflectors, the image of the fault plane, or the coherent interpretation of a fault system.

Key words: Ground-penetrating radar · Unconsolidated sediments · Environmental characterization · Faulting

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