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Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment
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Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Hazards and Sustainability".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 October 2023) | Viewed by 46214

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Guang-Liang Feng

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute of Rock and Soil Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
Interests: rock mechanics test; acoustic emission; rockburst monitoring; in-situ testing of geotechnical engineering; risk assessment of geological hazards; microseismic monitoring; microseismic signal analysis and source location; failure mechanics of rockmass; rockburst hazard monitoring, warning and mitigation; risk assessment of major geological hazards; stability analysis, warning and control of geotechnical engineering, emergency management and sustainable development
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Changdong Li

E-Mail Website
Co-Guest Editor
Faculty of Engineering, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
Interests: evolution of geohazards; susceptibility of landslide; slope stability; test and monitoring technolgy; retaining structure
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Honghu Zhu

E-Mail Website
Co-Guest Editor
School of Earth Sciences and Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
Interests: structural health monitoring; multi-physical monitoring, assessment, and mitigation of geohazards; performance evaluation of underground pipelines and tunnels
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Guo-Feng Liu

E-Mail Website
Co-Guest Editor
School of highway, Chang’an University, Xi’an 710064, China
Interests: rock mechanics test; microseismic monitoring; risk assessment and management of rockburst hazard; in-situ observation of rock spalling; mechanism of brittle failure of hard rock; machine learning and predictive modeling of rockmass hazards; rockburst warning and mitigation; in-situ monitoring of geotechnical engineering; stability analysis of underground caverns; numerical simulation of geotechnical engineering

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

More and more large‐scale geotechnical engineering projects have been built or are under construction or being programmed. Due to their complex geo-environment, such as strong tectonic movement, rugged terrain, and fragile geo-environment, the construction of these projects has been encountering many difficulties. Additionally, it is severely affected by different kinds of geotechnical disasters, such as landslides, rockbursts, debris flows, glacial lake outburst floods, etc., which cannot be solved by conventional knowledge and methods. Research is therefore urgently needed to strengthen science and technology innovation and cooperation in disaster mitigation and sustainable development during the construction of these geotechnical engineering projects. The various geotechnical disasters have resulted in massive loss of life and economic damage. As a result, it is paramount to use new technologies and international cooperation to jointly tackle these geotechnical disaster risks, protect ecological security, and achieve sustainable development. It is necessary to take proactive measures to ensure that the development of these geotechnical engineering projects is risk-informed and sustainable.

This Special Issue will have an overarching focus on new theories, methods, and techniques that have been developed to analyze the deformation mechanisms and monitor, warn, and mitigate geotechnical disasters in complex geo-environments. The papers included in this Special Issue can help us to exchange ideas on how to make the construction of geotechnical engineering projects more sustainable and disaster-proofing. Specific subtopics include but are not limited to the following:

  • Geotechnical disaster detection
  • Mechanisms and deformation analysis of geotechnical hazard
  • Geotechnical disaster risk analysis, assessment, and management
  • Geotechnical disaster monitoring, warning, and risk mitigation
  • Emergency management and post-disaster reconstruction
  • Geotechnical catastrophes and environmental sustainability
  • Lessons related to field geotechnical disaster and sustainable post-disaster reconstruction

Thank you for your contributions.

Dr. Guang-Liang Feng
Guest Editor

Prof. Dr. Changdong Li
Prof. Dr. Hong-Hu Zhu
Dr. Guo-Feng Liu
Co-Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

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Keywords

  • geotechnical engineering practice
  • geotechnical disaster
  • sustainable development
  • environmental sustainability
  • mechanisms and deformation analysis
  • risk analysis, assessment, and management
  • monitoring, warning, and risk mitigation
  • emergency management
  • sustainable post-disaster reconstruction

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Published Papers (16 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research

4 pages, 160 KiB  
Editorial
Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environments: An Editorial Note
by Guang-Liang Feng and Guo-Feng Liu
Sustainability 2024, 16(5), 1893; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16051893 - 26 Feb 2024
Viewed by 2592
Abstract
With the advancement of human society, the demand for infrastructure and the exploitation of natural resources have increased significantly [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)

Research

Jump to: Editorial

25 pages, 9711 KiB  
Article
Comparative Experiment and Analysis of a Base-Isolated Structure with Small Aspect Ratio on Multi-Layered Soft Soil Foundation and Rigid Foundation
by Xu Yu, Zhicheng Shan, Haiyang Zhuang and Guoxing Chen
Sustainability 2023, 15(11), 8693; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15118693 - 27 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1573
Abstract
Through conducting a comparative experimental study of small-aspect-ratio isolated structure models on multi-layered soft soil foundations and rigid foundations, this paper investigates the influence of soil–structure interaction (SSI) effects on the seismic response of small-aspect-ratio isolated structures on multi-layered soft soil foundations. An [...] Read more.
Through conducting a comparative experimental study of small-aspect-ratio isolated structure models on multi-layered soft soil foundations and rigid foundations, this paper investigates the influence of soil–structure interaction (SSI) effects on the seismic response of small-aspect-ratio isolated structures on multi-layered soft soil foundations. An energy balance equation for isolated structure systems considering SSI effects is proposed, and the impact of SSI effects on the energy dissipation response of small-aspect-ratio isolated structures on multi-layered soft soil foundations is analyzed in depth. The analysis results reveal that SSI effects on multi-layered soft soil foundations reduce the first-order natural frequency of the isolated structure system and significantly increase the damping ratio of the system. Furthermore, the rotational effect of the isolated structure foundation is significant on multi-layered soft soil foundations, and the isolation layer has a certain amplification effect on the rotational effect of the foundation. The study shows that SSI effects on multi-layered soft soil foundations may either increase or decrease the seismic response of isolated structures. Moreover, due to the influence of SSI effects, the ratios of kinetic energy, damping energy dissipation, and hysteresis deformation energy dissipation of the isolated structure on multi-layered soft soil foundations are significantly different from those on rigid foundations. The research concludes that the influence of SSI effects is more significant during large earthquakes, where the ratios of kinetic energy and damping energy dissipation of the isolated structure increase, the hysteresis deformation energy dissipation ratio of the isolation layer decreases, and the magnitude of the decrease is related to the characteristics of the input seismic motion. This research has significant implications for improving the seismic design theory of small-aspect-ratio isolated structures on multi-layered soft soil foundations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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24 pages, 9174 KiB  
Article
Cross-Scale Analysis on the Working Performance of Micropile Group and Talus Slope System
by Zhenwei Pei, Yanjun Zhang, Tingkai Nian, Shiguo Xiao and Hongshuai Liu
Sustainability 2023, 15(10), 8154; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15108154 - 17 May 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1516
Abstract
Micropile groups (MPGs), combined with the advantages of the anti-slip pile and anchor cable, offer an efficient support system that can be used as countermeasures for stabilizing the talus slopes. However, the performance of MPGs in stabilizing the talus slopes is rarely numerically [...] Read more.
Micropile groups (MPGs), combined with the advantages of the anti-slip pile and anchor cable, offer an efficient support system that can be used as countermeasures for stabilizing the talus slopes. However, the performance of MPGs in stabilizing the talus slopes is rarely numerically investigated from the continuous-discontinuous viewpoints. To fulfil this knowledge gap, a numerical method coupled with the discrete element method (DEM) with the finite element method (FEM) is proposed first, and validated to be with good accuracy by the centrifuge model tests. A series of cross-scale analysis cases are then adopted to assess the behavior of MPG in the talus slopes, in which the influencing factors are also taken into account. The numerical results indicate that the MPGs reinforcement can significantly improve the stability of the talus slopes, avoiding the potential progressive shallow slip. For the MPGs with different pile spacing, the distribution laws of deformation and internal force are rather similar, but the one whose pile spacing is four times the pile diameter shows better performance. Moreover, the effective anchorage length of MPG is approximately 1/3 of the pile length, and the axial force distribution is influenced by the type of pile bottom constraint and the tangential contact between the micropile and the bedrock. Finally, the “bidirectional anchorage” attributed to the platform and the bedrock can greatly improve the performance of the MPG, which is a non-negligible part of the anti-slip mechanism of the MPG. This study is of great significance for facilitating the design of MPG in stabilizing the talus slopes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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21 pages, 9520 KiB  
Article
Study on Deformation Characteristics of Retaining Structures under Coupled Effects of Deep Excavation and Groundwater Lowering in the Affected Area of Fault Zones
by Yungang Niu, Liang Zou, Qiongyi Wang and Fenghai Ma
Sustainability 2023, 15(10), 8060; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15108060 - 15 May 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1863
Abstract
In order to study the deformation characteristics of the retaining structure under the coupled effect of excavation and dewatering in the affected area of fault zones, this paper takes a deep excavation project in the F1322 fault zone influence area in Shenzhen as [...] Read more.
In order to study the deformation characteristics of the retaining structure under the coupled effect of excavation and dewatering in the affected area of fault zones, this paper takes a deep excavation project in the F1322 fault zone influence area in Shenzhen as an example. The research methods of theoretical analysis, numerical simulation and field measurement are used to conduct in-depth research on the deformation of the retaining structure caused by the excavation and dewatering of the foundation pit. The results show that considering the coupled effect of dewatering in the foundation pit, the energy method based on elastic theory is more accurate in solving the deformation of the retaining pile. By comparing and analyzing the theoretical calculation results, numerical analysis results, and field measurement values, we found that the numerical laws of the three are basically the same. Simplified calculations that only consider rotational deformation and ignore the translational deformation of the wall lead to large deviations between the theoretical calculation results and the measured values of the wall bottom deformation. In order to reduce the deviation between numerical results and measured values, the construction of the foundation pit should strictly adopt measures such as “sectional excavation, avoiding peripheral loads, and optimizing construction deployment”, strengthen construction monitoring, and reduce the impact on the deformation of the retaining pile. The maximum deformation growth rate k (ΔSmax/Δ) of the retaining pile decreases approximately exponentially with the increase of the structural stiffness parameters (E and I) and the embedment ratio within a certain range. The sensitivity analysis of the lateral displacement of the retaining pile to different geological parameters is conducted, and the sensitivity factors of the geological parameters to the deformation of the retaining structure are obtained, namely the maximum internal friction angle, followed by the cohesion, and the elastic modulus is the smallest. Based on the original design plan, an optimization of the excavation design is proposed by reducing the stiffness of the support structure. Therefore, the research findings in this paper have significant theoretical and practical implications for the engineering design of excavation projects located in fault zones. By optimizing the excavation support system, not only can standardized construction procedures be achieved, but also investment costs can be reduced, and construction time shortened, which fully aligns with the current safety, economic, and sustainable design principles of excavation projects aiming to conserve resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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21 pages, 7946 KiB  
Article
GPU-Accelerated Anisotropic Random Field and Its Application in the Modeling of a Diversion Tunnel
by Yu Ding, Guojin Zhu and Qingxiang Meng
Sustainability 2023, 15(8), 6573; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15086573 - 13 Apr 2023
Viewed by 1908
Abstract
In this paper, a GPU-accelerated Cholesky decomposition technique and a coupled anisotropic random field are suggested for use in the modeling of diversion tunnels. Combining the advantages of GPU and CPU processing with MATLAB programming control yields the most efficient method for creating [...] Read more.
In this paper, a GPU-accelerated Cholesky decomposition technique and a coupled anisotropic random field are suggested for use in the modeling of diversion tunnels. Combining the advantages of GPU and CPU processing with MATLAB programming control yields the most efficient method for creating large numerical model random fields. Based on the geological structural characteristics of red-bedded soft rocks in central Yunnan, anisotropic rock random fields and tunnel excavation with various rotation degrees are simulated. In the comparison of anisotropic random fields specifically, the relationship between the anisotropic rotation angle and the plastic zone, as well as the multiple measurements for the overall safety factor, are analyzed. The distribution of the plastic zone after excavation has a significant relationship with the random parameters of the anisotropic random field. When the stronger or weaker random parameters are located in the surrounding rock of the cavern, they will cause a change in the radius of the plastic zone. The overall safety factor of the anisotropic random field is relatively stable, with an average value of about 2, which mainly depends on the strength of the random parameter of the rock mass. Based on the random fluctuation of the suggested value in the engineering report, the simulation result is safe. This study can provide theoretical and technical support for the design and construction of relevant rock engineering in the red-bedded soft rock region of central Yunnan. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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14 pages, 3272 KiB  
Article
Determination of Concentration of Free Carbon Dioxide in Artificial Seawater by Difference Balance System/Henry’s Law
by Guang-Hu Liu, Li-Ting Deng, Ming-Ming Wen, Hao-Nan Cui, Jing-Yi Huang, Chen-Fei Wang, Hang-Yi Zhao, Chu-Ping Wang and Tian-Rui Chen
Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5096; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065096 - 13 Mar 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3765
Abstract
The concentration of dissolved carbon dioxide in seawater affects the formation of seabed biogenic minerals, and controls the development and evolution of marine organisms, which is one of the most important indices in the marine environment and geology survey. The concentration of free [...] Read more.
The concentration of dissolved carbon dioxide in seawater affects the formation of seabed biogenic minerals, and controls the development and evolution of marine organisms, which is one of the most important indices in the marine environment and geology survey. The concentration of free carbon dioxide in bottom seawater has important academic value for the exploration of seabed minerals, marine environment monitoring, the study of the carbon cycle in seabed sediments and even the global carbon cycle. Titration is used to determine the index, whose range is between 4 mg/L and 400 mg/L. However, the concentration of free carbon dioxide in bottom seawater in some sea areas is lower than this range, thus titration may not be suitable. A method for the determination of free carbon dioxide in artificial seawater, whose name is D.B.S/Henry’s Law, is described in this paper. D.B.S/Henry’s Law indirectly determines the content of free carbon dioxide in seawater instead of directly titrating with reagents. It is simple, fast and accurate, and it is based on the law of conservation of mass/Henry’s law and CO2 dissolution mechanisms. This discovery mainly provides a new scientific perspective for the determination of trace free carbon dioxide concentration in seawater. In addition, Henry’s law constants of carbon dioxide in artificial seawater at 3–20 degrees Celsius are determined with D.B.S/Henry’s Law. These data will be used as an important reference for the determination of free carbon dioxide in seawater in the future. D.B.S/Henry’s Law may be used as a supplement of the methods specified in national and industrial standards, which are applied to the detection of carbon dioxide Henry’s constant and free carbon dioxide content in various temperature and salinity seawater. D.B.S/Henry’s Law provides a new perspective for CO2 determination and has extensive practical application value. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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17 pages, 4920 KiB  
Article
Water Conservation and Ecological Water Requirement Prediction of Mining Area in Arid Region Based on RS-GIS and InVEST: A Case Study of Bayan Obo Mine in Baotou, China
by Qian-Qian Wang, Cheng-Xin Geng, Lu Wang, Ting-Ting Zheng, Qing-Hong Jiang, Tong Yang, Yong-Qi Liu and Zhe Wang
Sustainability 2023, 15(5), 4238; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15054238 - 27 Feb 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3017
Abstract
The overexploitation of mineral resources in northwestern China has resulted in severe ecological degradation and even desertification in certain mining areas. To support ecological restoration in these arid mining regions, we conducted a study on water conservation and ecological water demand using Bayan [...] Read more.
The overexploitation of mineral resources in northwestern China has resulted in severe ecological degradation and even desertification in certain mining areas. To support ecological restoration in these arid mining regions, we conducted a study on water conservation and ecological water demand using Bayan Obo as a case study. Based on remote sensing, geographic information systems, and the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs InVEST model, our study found that the mining area has lost its capacity for water production, with the water source conservation showing negative values. In addition, precipitation levels are far lower than evapotranspiration, making it difficult to retain precipitation. We predicted ecological water demand for the planning years (2025, 2030, and 2035) by combining qualitative and quantitative forecasting methods, with 2019 serving as the base year. The results indicated a downward trend in natural ecological water demand, while artificial ecological water demand exhibited the opposite trend. Changes in natural grassland and artificial green areas in the mining region were identified as the main drivers of changes in ecological water demand. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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16 pages, 2864 KiB  
Article
Predicting the Accuracy and Applicability of Micro-Seismic Monitoring of Rock Burst in TBM Tunneling Using the Data from Two Case Studies in China
by Yalei Yang, Lijie Du, Qingwei Li, Xiangbo Zhao, Weifeng Zhang and Zhiyong Liu
Sustainability 2023, 15(5), 4232; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15054232 - 27 Feb 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1906
Abstract
Rock burst in TBM construction will have a great influence on the construction safety and construction speed. At the same time, there are few practical projects using micro-seismic monitoring, and the accuracy of prediction is not satisfactory. Therefore, this paper was based on [...] Read more.
Rock burst in TBM construction will have a great influence on the construction safety and construction speed. At the same time, there are few practical projects using micro-seismic monitoring, and the accuracy of prediction is not satisfactory. Therefore, this paper was based on a large number of micro-seismic monitoring reports and data from two hard rock TBM projects in China. The actual rock burst situation was continuously tracked and recorded on site for comparison and verification. The accuracy of rock burst monitoring was statistically analyzed from the aspects of rock burst grade and location. The applicability was analyzed from the perspective of rock burst construction safety, advance rate, and prevention measures. It was concluded that the accuracy of micro-seismic monitoring increased with the increase in the rock burst risk level. The precision location of Grade I and Grade II rock burst could be realized basically, while Grade III rock burst prediction was relatively low. It is suggested that micro-seismic monitoring should be adopted when there are Grade I and II rock burst risks. The research results will have important guiding significance for the TBM construction of deep-buried tunnels in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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16 pages, 9008 KiB  
Article
Application of Induced Polarization Method in Mineral Resource Exploration
by Yubo Yang, Guibin Zhang, Chenglin Yao, Zhongjun Deng, Zhiming Ren and Chunfeng Li
Sustainability 2023, 15(4), 3840; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15043840 - 20 Feb 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5029
Abstract
The search for hidden minerals with a large, buried depth depends on the guidance of geological and metallogenic theory, but it is difficult to master the geological characteristics of deep deposits. In this paper, taking a survey area as an example, the stimulated [...] Read more.
The search for hidden minerals with a large, buried depth depends on the guidance of geological and metallogenic theory, but it is difficult to master the geological characteristics of deep deposits. In this paper, taking a survey area as an example, the stimulated polarization geophysical method is used to obtain the information of deep minerals indirectly. Through the analysis and study of IP (induced polarization) anomaly and its characteristics in a tin polymetallic mining area, we delineate the IP anomaly distribution zone of metal ore, identify the distribution of polarized abnormal bodies by IP sounding, and determine the distribution of metallogenic fracture zones in the working area. Through the least square inversion of resistivity and polarizability, the spatial correspondence between the abnormal area of resistivity and polarizability and the location of ore bodies are obtained. The strategy of deep-mineral-induced polarization analysis adopted by us can provide a reliable geophysical basis for rapid deep geological prospecting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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15 pages, 4629 KiB  
Article
Laboratory and In Situ Stabilization of Compacted Clay through Granite Waste Powder
by Syed Husnain Ali Shah, Umer Habib, Abdullah Mohamed, Mubashir Aziz, Qasim ur Rehman and Asma Saleem
Sustainability 2022, 14(21), 14459; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142114459 - 3 Nov 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2631
Abstract
The main objective of this study is to investigate the effect of granite waste powder on the behavior of compacted clay soil in both field and laboratory environments. Samples were collected from clay soil exposed at Karak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The sampled soils [...] Read more.
The main objective of this study is to investigate the effect of granite waste powder on the behavior of compacted clay soil in both field and laboratory environments. Samples were collected from clay soil exposed at Karak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The sampled soils contain kaolinite, illite, and montmorillonites. The samples were mixed with various quantities, i.e., 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% by weight of granite waste powder collected from various stone industries in district Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. They were then subjected to a variety of geotechnical testing in both the laboratory and the field, following the standard ASTM procedures. The results show that mixing with granite-cutting waste enhances the quality of the soil in both the field and laboratory settings by increasing its bearing capacity (BC), dry density (DD), California-bearing ratio (CBR), unconfined compressive strength (UCS), penetration resistance, and angle of internal friction and by reducing the optimum moisture content, cohesion, porosity, void ratio, and saturation potential. The resulting improvement is mainly due to the stronger, denser, and less hydrophilic character of the constituents of the added rock powders than the raw soil. It is observed that adding 40% granite waste powder produces the best outcome. However, there is a significant difference in the magnitude of the impact on soil quality between the laboratory and field testing. Owing to differences in the testing environment, soil volume, and compaction effort and energy, the amount of improvement is higher in laboratory testing than in field testing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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14 pages, 3888 KiB  
Article
Mountainous SAR Image Registration Using Image Simulation and an L2E Robust Estimator
by Shuang Zhang, Lichun Sui, Rongrong Zhou, Zhangyuan Xun, Chengyan Du and Xiao Guo
Sustainability 2022, 14(15), 9315; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14159315 - 29 Jul 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2081
Abstract
Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is one of the most widely utilized methods to extract elevation information and identify large-scale deformations in mountainous areas. Homologous points in stereo SAR image pairs are difficult to identify due to complex geometric and radiometric distortions. In this [...] Read more.
Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is one of the most widely utilized methods to extract elevation information and identify large-scale deformations in mountainous areas. Homologous points in stereo SAR image pairs are difficult to identify due to complex geometric and radiometric distortions. In this paper, a new approach for mountainous area images is suggested. Firstly, a simulated SAR image and a look-up table based on DEM data are generated by a range-Doppler model and an empirical formula. Then, a point matching RPM-L2E algorithm is used to match images obtained by the simulation and in real-time to indirectly obtain the feature points of the real SAR images. Finally, the accurate registration of mountainous areas in the SAR images is achieved by a polynomial transform. Experimental verification is performed by using the data of mountainous SAR images from the same sensor and different sensors. When the registration accuracy of the method is compared with that of two state-of-the-art image registration algorithms, better outcomes are experimentally shown. The suggested approach can effectively solve the registration problem of SAR images of mountainous areas, and can overcome the disadvantages of poor adaptability and low accuracy of traditional SAR image registration methods for mountainous areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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21 pages, 9855 KiB  
Article
Highway Proneness Appraisal to Landslides along Taiping to Ipoh Segment Malaysia, Using MCDM and GIS Techniques
by Idris Bello Yamusa, Mohd Suhaili Ismail and Abdulwaheed Tella
Sustainability 2022, 14(15), 9096; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14159096 - 25 Jul 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3095
Abstract
Landslides are geological hazards that claim lives and affect socio-economic growth. Despite increased slope failure, some constructions, such as road constructions, are still being performed without proper investigation of the susceptibility of slope mass movement. This study researches the susceptibility of landslides in [...] Read more.
Landslides are geological hazards that claim lives and affect socio-economic growth. Despite increased slope failure, some constructions, such as road constructions, are still being performed without proper investigation of the susceptibility of slope mass movement. This study researches the susceptibility of landslides in a study area encompassing a major highway that extends from Taiping to Ipoh, Malaysia. After a comprehensive literature review, 10 landslide conditioning factors were considered for this study. As novel research in this study area, multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) models such as AHP and fuzzy AHP were used to rank the conditioning factors before generating the final landslide susceptibility mapping using Geographical Information System (GIS) software. The landslide susceptibility map has five classes ranging from very low (9.20%) and (32.97%), low (18.09%) and (25.60%), moderate (24.46%) and (21.36%), high (27.57%) and (13.26%), to very high (20.68%) and (6.81%) susceptibility for the FAHP and AHP models, respectively. It was recorded that the area is mainly covered with moderate to very high landslide risk, which requires proper intervention, especially for subsequent construction or renovation processes. The highway was overlayed on the susceptibility map, which concludes that the highway was constructed on a terrain susceptible to slope instability. Therefore, decision-makers should consider further investigation and landslide susceptibility mapping before construction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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23 pages, 12552 KiB  
Article
Using Thermal Monitoring and Fibre Optic Measurements to Verify Numerical Models, Soil Parameters and to Determine the Impact of the Implemented Investment on Neighbouring Structures
by Paweł Popielski, Adam Kasprzak and Bartosz Bednarz
Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4050; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074050 - 29 Mar 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3918
Abstract
Numerical modelling using Finite Element Method (FEM) is currently a standard procedure for engineering complex structures and determining structure–subsoil cooperation conditions. It is used for, among others, forecasting displacements, which are the calculation results most easily verified. Numerical modelling is also used to [...] Read more.
Numerical modelling using Finite Element Method (FEM) is currently a standard procedure for engineering complex structures and determining structure–subsoil cooperation conditions. It is used for, among others, forecasting displacements, which are the calculation results most easily verified. Numerical modelling is also used to identify the impact on neighbouring structures and design a monitoring system and determine expected values, e.g., displacements. A numerical model enables one to optimally design the monitoring system for a facility under construction and the neighbouring structures through selecting a measurement technology, matching the scope of obtained results or choosing sensor and measurement point locations. The implemented monitoring may be based on various technologies, from thermal monitoring, laser scanning, fibre optic measurements, to classic surveying measurements. The walls must protect the soil from excessive displacement and protect the excavation against groundwater inflow. If the wall is not watertight, deepening the excavation may cause a sudden water inflow. Leak and erosion process thermal monitoring is a proven leak detection method. It is based on the tests utilizing heat and water transfer process relations, which are coupled processes. Another tool for verifying numerical models is the installation of DFOS (Distributed Fibre Optic Sensors) at the stage of executing structural elements (e.g., diaphragm walls, barrettes, foundation slab). It allows one to permanently monitor both temperature and displacements during element execution (concrete curing), and following facility construction and operation stages. The paper presents methods for designing selected monitoring elements of engineering objects, based on calculations using the Finite Element Method. The verification of numerical models, based on data obtained from DFOS, classic surveying measurements and thermal monitoring, is also presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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15 pages, 5446 KiB  
Article
Spatial Coherency Model Considering Focal Mechanism Based on Simulated Ground Motions
by Keyu Wan, Xiaodan Sun, Yu Liu, Kang Ren, Xiaoying Sun and Yanqing Luo
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 1989; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14041989 - 10 Feb 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1733
Abstract
The spatial coherencies of ground motions are the key to establishing multi-support excitation for large-dimension structures. Most of the existing models were established based on ground motions recorded at dense observation arrays which barely show any detailed information on the focal mechanism. However, [...] Read more.
The spatial coherencies of ground motions are the key to establishing multi-support excitation for large-dimension structures. Most of the existing models were established based on ground motions recorded at dense observation arrays which barely show any detailed information on the focal mechanism. However, in the near field, ground motions are dominated by the source, and so are the spatial coherencies of ground motions. In this paper, a deterministic physics-based method was used to simulate ground motions in the near field for various focal mechanism scenarios. The coherencies of the simulated ground motions were calculated. The Loh coherency model was used to fit the variation in the calculated coherencies for each scenario. The results show that the focal mechanism has a significant effect on the spatial coherencies of simulated ground motions. Finally, the probability density distributions of the parameters, a and b, of the Loh coherency model were obtained, and a coherency model was proposed, based on the Loh coherency model, in which the parameters are taken to be dependent on the focal mechanism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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17 pages, 6828 KiB  
Article
Hazard Reduction in Deep Excavations Execution
by Mateusz Frydrych, Grzegorz Kacprzak and Paweł Nowak
Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 868; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020868 - 13 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2949
Abstract
In this article, the authors consider a completely new approach in design, which is related to the use of previously un-adapted technologies known to bridge engineering in geotechnical issues for prestressing of diaphragm wall during deep excavations execution. The bridge technology described here [...] Read more.
In this article, the authors consider a completely new approach in design, which is related to the use of previously un-adapted technologies known to bridge engineering in geotechnical issues for prestressing of diaphragm wall during deep excavations execution. The bridge technology described here is the prestressing of concrete structures. Hazards related to deep excavations and methods of digging them, such as the ceiling method and top&down method, are presented. Current problems in supporting deep excavation slopes are related to the use of extensive quantities of materials (such as steel struts, ground anchors, or concrete and reinforcement steel). The authors’ method helps to achieve a higher level of sustainability, which is important in a modern approach to geotechnical engineering. The non-linear arrangements of the cables according to the occurrence of the prestressing moments for a given phase are presented. Results related to numerical analysis—showing the correctness of the method and cost optimization results, showing possible savings are presented. The article is a part of the set. In the second (already published) article titled “Modern Methods of Diaphragm Walls Design”, the authors present the concept of the calculation methodology for diaphragm wall design. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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13 pages, 4355 KiB  
Article
Modern Methods of Diaphragm Walls Design
by Mateusz Frydrych, Grzegorz Kacprzak and Paweł Nowak
Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 14004; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132414004 - 18 Dec 2021
Viewed by 3959
Abstract
This article addresses hazard reduction in deep excavations. The authors present a possible combination of prestressing of concrete structures (from bridge engineering) and prestressed structures of diaphragm walls from geotechnical engineering science. This innovative concept has not yet been shown in scientific articles. [...] Read more.
This article addresses hazard reduction in deep excavations. The authors present a possible combination of prestressing of concrete structures (from bridge engineering) and prestressed structures of diaphragm walls from geotechnical engineering science. This innovative concept has not yet been shown in scientific articles. The “Sofistik” software (with TENDON module–SYSP/AXES/TOPP/TGEO) and its use is shown, with graphical presentations of the suggested solution. The authors compare the provided solution through usage of Sofistik and Plaxis software. The results show possible strengthening of sustainable construction by limitation of hazards and decreasing costs (via limitation of use of expensive steel reinforcement). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geotechnical Disaster Risk Mitigation and Sustainable Development in Complex Geo-Environment)
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