Quantifying the impact of 3D effects on 3D Electrical Resistivity Tomography data at Mactaquac Dam, New Brunswick
Lead Research Organisation:
Lancaster University
Department Name: Lancaster Environment Centre
Abstract
EPSRC : John Ball : EP/R513076/1
Geophysical techniques are being increasingly used to monitor the structural conditions of dams, due to their widespread coverage and ability to detect subsurface issues, such as the development of seepage pathways. One such technique is Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), which is sensitive to moisture content and porosity, meaning it can be useful for detecting areas of potential seepage, and therefore parts of the dam which are failing.
Analysis of geophysical data often requires computer models. In my PhD I have been exploring how such models can lead to incorrect interpretations if the 3D geometry of the site or dynamic variation in water levels adjacent to the dam are not accounted for. This exchange will allow me to apply some of the approaches I have been working on to an established site in Canada where geophysical techniques have been applied. I anticipate that the work will enable greater certainties in data interpretations.
Geophysical techniques are being increasingly used to monitor the structural conditions of dams, due to their widespread coverage and ability to detect subsurface issues, such as the development of seepage pathways. One such technique is Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), which is sensitive to moisture content and porosity, meaning it can be useful for detecting areas of potential seepage, and therefore parts of the dam which are failing.
Analysis of geophysical data often requires computer models. In my PhD I have been exploring how such models can lead to incorrect interpretations if the 3D geometry of the site or dynamic variation in water levels adjacent to the dam are not accounted for. This exchange will allow me to apply some of the approaches I have been working on to an established site in Canada where geophysical techniques have been applied. I anticipate that the work will enable greater certainties in data interpretations.
People |
ORCID iD |
| Andrew Binley (Principal Investigator) |
| Description | This award focusses on the monitoring of the integrity of a large dam in Canada. This award is to fund a secondment for a UK (EPSRC) PhD student (John Ball) to carry out some research at the University of New Brunswick, Canada. Because of covid the project has been delayed (both UK and Canada limited travel). The secondment is now scheduled for April to June 2022 and so it is too early to report key findings. However, we have been working with the host at New Brunswick to become familiar with the experimental setup in Canada and to conduct preliminary modelling work. |
| Exploitation Route | Too early to say but we are hoping that the tools we develop can be used by others. |
| Sectors | Environment |