Effects of Groundwater and Surface Water on the Natural Geo-Hazards, 2nd Edition

A special issue of Water (ISSN 2073-4441). This special issue belongs to the section "Hydrogeology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 April 2025 | Viewed by 6161

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Department of Civil Engineering, School of Mechanics and Engineering Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
Interests: engineering geology; geotechnical engineering; multifield coupled modeling; environmental geotechnics; frozen soil; soil improvement
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Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 153-8505, Japan
Interests: riverine floods; hydrodynamic models; flood hazard; flood impact; satellite remote sensing
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Guest Editor
School of Civil Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
Interests: frozen soil engineering; slope engineering; expansive unsaturated soil; geotechnical seismic engineering
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Key Laboratory of Mountain Hazards and Earth Surface Process, Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China
Interests: granular dynamics; numerical modeling; landslides; debris flows; slope stability
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Guest Editor
School of Civil Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
Interests: frozen soil engineering; railway engineering; geotechnical engineering; granular materials; constitutive model
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Geo-disasters, such as landslides, debris flows, rock collapses, floods, etc., are constant threats to the safety of people's lives and properties. Most geo-disasters are induced by a coupling interaction between geo-materials and geo-fluids, especially groundwater and surface water. Thus far, great efforts have been made in geo-disaster evaluation and accident prevention, but they still cannot be accurately forecasted. Therefore, geo-fluids make geo-disasters an extremely challenging problem.

To prevent potential damage, experiments and field monitoring are always included in the study of geo-disasters. However, the literature indicates that studies of these mechanisms remain inconclusive due to complex geological circumstances, environmental conditions, and inducing factors. Traditional theories of dynamic mechanics, analysis methods, and detecting technologies still lag behind engineering practice, and thus, hazard mechanisms must be determined. To this end, the urgent need for the detailed and systematic research on the effects of geo-fluids and hazard mechanisms is essential. This Special Issue aims to publish original research and review articles about the influence of geo-fluids and hazard mechanism analysis. In this Special Issue, experiments and field monitoring are encouraged, as well as numerical modeling. Papers submitted on new and emerging topics within the general discipline are also encouraged. We prefer comprehensive, innovative, and ground-breaking research findings. Thus, theoretical papers are welcome, and practice-oriented papers are particularly encouraged.

Dr. Xudong Zhang
Dr. Xudong Zhou
Dr. Shengyi Cong
Dr. Yiding Bao
Dr. Shuang Tian
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • water modeling
  • soil–water interaction
  • rock–water interaction
  • geo-hazards
  • water-induced problems

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

19 pages, 13432 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Occurrence Conditions and Formation Mechanism of Mineral Water in the Southern Region of Yaoquan Mountain, Wudalianchi
by Chang Li, Xubin Shan, Chuansheng Li, Shuren Hao, Bin Cheng, Chuanlei Lu, Jian Zhao, Xu Wang and Ziliang Su
Water 2024, 16(21), 3130; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16213130 - 1 Nov 2024
Viewed by 617
Abstract
Because of its unique geographical properties, the Yaoquanshan area of Wudalianchi City, Heilongjiang Province, contains rich mineral water resources. We have carried out much research on the mineral water in the Yaoquanshan area of Wudalianchi City, which has also been supplemented by of [...] Read more.
Because of its unique geographical properties, the Yaoquanshan area of Wudalianchi City, Heilongjiang Province, contains rich mineral water resources. We have carried out much research on the mineral water in the Yaoquanshan area of Wudalianchi City, which has also been supplemented by of previous studies. In this paper, through a controlled audio geoelectromagnetic method, geological drilling, groundwater level monitoring and water quality analysis, the structure, regional geology, hydrogeology and water geochemistry, as well as the characteristics of the distribution of metasilicate mineral water and natural soda water, the formation mechanism and the recharge, runoff and excretion of groundwater in the study area, are discussed. The results can provide a theoretical basis for the exploitation and utilization of mineral water resources in the southern region of the Wudalianchi Pharmaceutical Spring Mountain. Full article
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16 pages, 3485 KiB  
Article
Research on Geothermal Geology and Heat-Forming Conditions in the Tangyuan Fault Depression
by Chang Li, Shuren Hao, Chuansheng Li, Sihong Zhu, Lin Guo, Chen Hu, Qifa Sun, Xiuhai Li and Wei Hu
Water 2024, 16(20), 2972; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16202972 - 18 Oct 2024
Viewed by 504
Abstract
In order to gain an in-depth understanding of the geothermal geological characteristics and heat-forming conditions in the Tangyuan fault-depression area, this paper has carried out a series of detailed geological works, including geological surveys and geophysical explorations. Through these works, combined with the [...] Read more.
In order to gain an in-depth understanding of the geothermal geological characteristics and heat-forming conditions in the Tangyuan fault-depression area, this paper has carried out a series of detailed geological works, including geological surveys and geophysical explorations. Through these works, combined with the results of systematic drilling, sampling tests, and dynamic monitoring, we have studied, analyzed, and compared the relevant data to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the geological characteristics in the Tangyuan fault-depression area. During the research process, we preliminarily determined the stratigraphic structure and geological structure in this area and clarified the characteristics of the main geothermal reservoir and its burial conditions. These findings provide basic data support for our understanding of the formation and distribution of geothermal resources. At the same time, we have carried out a systematic analysis of the basic geothermal geological parameters, laying the foundation for the future calculation and evaluation of geothermal resource reserves. Through the collation and analysis of these research results, this paper not only provides a scientific basis for the development of geothermal resources in the Tangyuan fault-depression area but also provides specific references for future development prospect plans. This series of work will lay a solid foundation for further development and utilization of geothermal resources and promote the sustainable development of the regional economy. Full article
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23 pages, 3173 KiB  
Article
Use of an Ecological Compensation Model in Water Resource Development: A Case Study from Shaanxi Province, China
by Longxing Chen, Ping Han and Gaopan Zhang
Water 2024, 16(19), 2851; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16192851 - 8 Oct 2024
Viewed by 646
Abstract
This study aims to analyze the current situation of water resource management in Shaanxi Province, study the basic principles of ecological compensation, evaluate the impact of water conservation projects on the ecological environment by establishing a model, and propose a sustainable water resource [...] Read more.
This study aims to analyze the current situation of water resource management in Shaanxi Province, study the basic principles of ecological compensation, evaluate the impact of water conservation projects on the ecological environment by establishing a model, and propose a sustainable water resource management model. Hanzhong City has certain typicality and representativeness within Shaanxi Province, and the problems it faces in water resource management and ecological environment may represent the entire province or similar regions. At the same time, Hanzhong City has rich data and research foundations. Therefore, by conducting a detailed analysis of the current water resource status in the Hanzhong City area of Shaanxi Province, the problems in current water resource management are revealed, and the basic principles of ecological compensation are intensely studied. The original ecological compensation plan in Shaanxi Province has been summarized. Guided by the concept of sustainable development, an ecological compensation model is established using algorithms, and the model is applied to sustainable water resource management. Establish a model for water conservation and water resource management through data collection, preprocessing, and cleaning, and apply it to practical cases in Hanzhong City. Through simulation and analysis of Hanzhong City, the new water resource management model effectively mitigates the adverse effects of water conservation projects on the ecological environment while improving water resource utilization efficiency. The changes in various environmental parameters indicate that the new plan has improved the ecological environment. Through the application of the model, the ecological compensation plan formulated has achieved sustainable protection of the ecological environment while promoting economic development. This study proposes a sustainable water resource management model through a comprehensive study of water resource management and ecological compensation in Shaanxi Province and verifies it in practical cases, demonstrating that the model has not only good applicability but also has significant effects in promoting economic growth and ecological environment protection. Full article
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20 pages, 10464 KiB  
Article
Study on the Evolution Characteristics of Dam Failure Due to Flood Overtopping of Tailings Ponds
by Zhijie Duan, Jinglong Chen, Jing Xie, Quanming Li, Hong Zhang and Cheng Chen
Water 2024, 16(17), 2406; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16172406 - 27 Aug 2024
Viewed by 979
Abstract
There has been a frequent occurrence of tailing dam failures in recent years, leading to severe repercussions. Flood overtopping is an important element contributing to these failures. Nevertheless, there is a scarcity of studies about the evolutionary mechanisms of dam breaches resulting from [...] Read more.
There has been a frequent occurrence of tailing dam failures in recent years, leading to severe repercussions. Flood overtopping is an important element contributing to these failures. Nevertheless, there is a scarcity of studies about the evolutionary mechanisms of dam breaches resulting from flood overtopping. In order to fill this knowledge vacuum, this study focused on the evolutionary characteristics and triggering mechanisms of overtopping failures, utilizing the Heshangyu tailings pond as a prototype. The process of overtopping breach evolution was revealed by the conduction of small-scale model testing. A scaled-down replica of the tailings pond was constructed at a ratio of 1:150, and a controlled experiment was conducted to simulate a breach in the dam caused by water overflowing. Based on the results, the following conclusions were drawn: (1) The rise in water level in the pond caused the tailings to become saturated, leading to liquefaction flow and local slope sliding at the initial dam. If the sediment-carrying capacity of the overflowing water exceeded the shear strength of the tailings, water erosion would accelerate landslides on the slope, generating a sand-laden water flow. (2) The breach was primarily influenced by water erosion, which subsequently resulted in both laterally widened and longitudinally deepened breach. As the breach expanded, the sand-carrying capacity of the water flow increased, leading to a faster rate of failure. The breach process of overtopping can be categorized into four distinct stages: gully formation stage, lateral broadening stage of gully, cracks and collapse on the slope surface, and stable stage of collapse. (3) The tailings from the outflow spread downstream in a radial pattern, forming an alluvial fan. Additionally, the depth of the deposited mud first increased and subsequently declined as the distance from the breach grew. The findings of this research provide an important basis for the prevention and control of tailings dam breach disasters due to overtopping. Full article
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21 pages, 6213 KiB  
Article
Multifactor Mathematical Modeling and Analysis of the Impact of Extreme Climate on Geological Disasters
by Xiaoyu Yang, Xiaohui Sun and Li Tang
Water 2024, 16(15), 2211; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16152211 - 5 Aug 2024
Viewed by 897
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the impact of extreme climate on geological disasters in Shanxi and propose effective disaster prevention and mitigation strategies. Methods: Using daily temperature and precipitation data from 27 meteorological stations in Shanxi Province from 1975 to 2020, 32 extreme climate indices [...] Read more.
Objective: To investigate the impact of extreme climate on geological disasters in Shanxi and propose effective disaster prevention and mitigation strategies. Methods: Using daily temperature and precipitation data from 27 meteorological stations in Shanxi Province from 1975 to 2020, 32 extreme climate indices were calculated. Combined with geological disaster site data, the distribution characteristics of extreme climates and their relationship with geological disasters were analyzed, and a regression model for geological disaster risk zones was constructed. Results: Sixteen extreme climate indices in Shanxi Province showed significant changes, especially TMAXmean (100% significant). Indices related to negative precipitation effects showed a declining trend, with 77.78% being significant, while 96.3% of positive temperature effect indices showed an increasing trend, with 73.6% being significant. Geological disaster hotspots were concentrated in the mid-altitude (500–1500 m) hilly and low mountain areas along the central north–south axis and on Q and Pz strata. Extreme high-temperature indices were significantly positively correlated with geological disaster hotspots, while extreme low-temperature indices were negatively correlated. Indices related to extreme heavy precipitation (e.g., R99p.Slope, RX5day.Slope) were associated with an increase in geological disaster hotspots, whereas higher total precipitation and frequent heavy precipitation events were associated with a decrease in disaster hotspots. The grey relational degree between the Z-score and TXn.Slope, TXx.Slope, GSL.Slope, and TX90P.Slope was greater than 0.8. The random forest model performed best in evaluation metrics such as MAE, RMSE, and R2. Conclusions: Shanxi is likely to experience more extreme high-temperature and precipitation events in the future. The low-altitude hilly and terraced areas in Zones III and VII are key regions for geological disaster prevention and control. High temperatures and extreme rainfall events generally increase the disaster risk, while higher total precipitation reduces it. The random forest model is the optimal tool for predicting geological disaster risks in Shanxi Province. Full article
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25 pages, 5651 KiB  
Article
Study on Optimal Allocation of Water Resources Based on Uncertain Multi-Objective Fuzzy Model: A Case of Pingliang City, China
by Yun Zhao, Rui Zhang, Heping Shu, Zhi Xu, Shangbin Fan, Qiang Wang, Yaxian Li and Yapeng An
Water 2024, 16(15), 2099; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16152099 - 25 Jul 2024
Viewed by 821
Abstract
Water shortages are serious in northwest China due to the level of social and economic development, engineering, resource shortages, and other factors being restricted, so the conflict between supply and demand for water resources is prominent in different regions and different water use [...] Read more.
Water shortages are serious in northwest China due to the level of social and economic development, engineering, resource shortages, and other factors being restricted, so the conflict between supply and demand for water resources is prominent in different regions and different water use sectors. Therefore, Pingliang City was selected as the research object in this study. The membership function was introduced, and an interactive algorithm to correct model parameters based on the fairness constraint was derived. An uncertain multi-objective fuzzy programming model was also established. The results show that the optimal allocation of water will be 38,051.9~40,740 × 104 m3 and 39,938.4~41,317.5 × 104 m3 under a normal year (p = 50%) and a dry year (p = 75%) in 2025, respectively, and the corresponding water shortage rates will be 4.2% and 6.7%. In 2035, the optimal water allocation will be 45,644.1~49,245.9 × 104 m3 and 46,442.4~50,044.2 × 104 m3 and the water shortage rates will be 7.0% and 7.0%, respectively. The proportion of groundwater supply will decrease by 8.8% and 13.8% in 2025 and 2035 after the optimal allocation, the proportion of surface water supply will increase by 9.6% and 12.2%, and the proportion of reclaimed water will increase by −0.78% and 2.1%, respectively. The results can provide a technical reference for the development and utilization of water resources in other cities and similar areas in semi-arid regions. Full article
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26 pages, 19594 KiB  
Article
Predicting Water Inflow in Tunnel Construction: A Fracture Network Model with Non-Darcy Flow Considerations
by Ke Hu, Liang Yao, Jianxing Liao, Hong Wang, Jiashun Luo and Xiangdong Xu
Water 2024, 16(13), 1885; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16131885 - 1 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1046
Abstract
Fractures are widely distributed in karst areas, and when flow rates are high, they exhibit complex nonlinear behavior that cannot be accurately described by Darcy’s law. In this work, a hydro-mechanical coupling model based on a discrete fracture network is proposed to predict [...] Read more.
Fractures are widely distributed in karst areas, and when flow rates are high, they exhibit complex nonlinear behavior that cannot be accurately described by Darcy’s law. In this work, a hydro-mechanical coupling model based on a discrete fracture network is proposed to predict tunnel water inflow, accounting for the impact of non-Darcy flow. The model’s feasibility has been validated by comparing it with experimental results and the field measurements of flow rates at the Bodaoling Tunnel in Guizhou, China. The results show that Darcy flow tends to overestimate water inflow by approximately 25% compared to non-Darcy flow. The non-Darcy effect grows with the increase in initial fracture width and empirical constant q. When q exceeds 8.77 × 10−6, the growth rate of the Forchheimer number along the fracture width slowed down, and the inhibitory effect of non-Darcy flow on flow became gentle. Additionally, in a complex fracture network, the inflow rate limited by non-Darcy flow at one point drives the water flow through a connect fracture to another point, which increases the difficulty in water inflow prediction. This work highlights the importance of non-Darcy flow and fracture networks when accurately predicting water inflow in tunnels. Full article
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