Computer aided techniques in urban engineering geological mapping: Fid-Bau Portal

Computer aided techniques in urban engineering geological mapping

Reekie, C. J. / Coffey, J. R. / Marsden, Ann E.

Summary Numerous techniques for the storage and retrieval of geotechnical data have been proposed and developed. They are based on copying, microfilming and computer systems. In most cases, unless some rationalization of the available information is attempted, difficulties arise due to the volume of data which must be handled. As a result, such schemes become labour intensive and therefore costly, and, much more importantly data retrieval and subsequent interpretation is not so effective. The present scheme involves the characterization of geological and geotechnical information for each 100 metre square in the area to be studied. All the available surface and subsurface information which is reliable is used and a summary sheet for each square produced. It includes relevant information on soil and rock types present, depth to important horizons, mean values of the geotechnical parameters available and information on potential hazards derived from archival literature. This is stored on an interactive system which enables the user to interrogate the file and reconstruct maps in matrix form. These show the distribution of surface layers and the location and value of geotechnical properties. The scheme proves acceptable for small scale engineering geological mapping purpose (scales less than 1∶25,000). It also proves a most useful tool in the reconnaissance and ground investigation design phase at the 1∶10,000 scale. Examples of the operation of the scheme in Central Newcastle are presented.