Time-Lapse Shear-Wave Velocity Changes Corresponding to Stages of Soil Arching Using a Trapdoor and the Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves
Publication: International Journal of Geomechanics
Volume 24, Issue 10
Abstract
In this study, a subsidence simulator, also known as a trapdoor, is used to evaluate stages of soil arching (a load transfer mechanism), and related failure features are imaged using time-lapse surface-wave analysis in near real time. The trapdoor was reinforced with a nonwoven geotextile to simulate void roof sagging due to increased loading during void development. This soil behavior was uniquely monitored with three methodologies, namely, multiple horizontal layers of earth pressure cells, photography, and time-lapse seismic surface-wave surveys. Pressure measurements were recorded after every 1 mm of trapdoor downward displacement, along with time-lapse photographs, to visually monitor the development of failure features. Time-lapse seismic surface-wave surveys were conducted after every 7 mm of displacement with pseudo-2D shear-wave velocity (Vs) sections generated for each survey using surface-wave inversion techniques. Vs variations were consistent with the progressive development of shear planes that formed an arch above the trapdoor. A simplified ground reaction curve was then derived from pressure measurements with the estimated stages of soil arching supported by each experimental method. Based on this physical model, Vs variations from surface-wave surveys can be used to successfully and noninvasively image and monitor stress-field variations related to progressive void roof collapse and associated deformation features.
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Data Availability Statement
All data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Acknowledgments
The authors thank the Kansas Geological Survey and the KU Department of Geology for funding this research and providing the seismic equipment to perform this work. The authors are grateful for the technical discussions with Richard Miller and Julian Ivanov that contributed to the design and completion of this work. The first author is especially grateful to Joe Anderson, who played a significant role in the experimental design and equipment support needed for this research and other projects during her graduate career.
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International Journal of Geomechanics
Volume 24 • Issue 10 • October 2024
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© 2024 American Society of Civil Engineers.
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Received: Feb 27, 2023
Accepted: Mar 4, 2024
Published online: Jul 17, 2024
Published in print: Oct 1, 2024
Discussion open until: Dec 17, 2024
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