Subsidence prediction
a knowledge exchange case study
Location of gypsum dissolution cavities by seismic reflection surveying.
The method of seismic reflection surveying is to be applied to detecting gypsum dissolution cavities. These can cause subsidence hazard where the gypsum is within 100m of the ground surface. The ultimate aim is to transfer knowledge of the technique to geotechnical contractors, developers, other local authorities and the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) so that they can insist on testing for cavities in likely areas.
Darlington Borough Council are partners in the project and will provide local geological data and site investigation records.
Once developed the technique can also be used to detect cavities arising from other processes (eg from dissolved Cheshire salt and abandoned coal-workings).
This could affect policy in areas where new housing is planned and help save money on underpinning where no cavities are detected.
Funded through the Knowledge Exchange Call - Good Ideas scheme (involving local government).