Passive Gamma-Ray Emission for Underwater Sediment-Disturbance Detection
Abstract
Sediment erosion around physical structures in surface water (e.g., bridge footings) is an important phenomenon to monitor. Traditional assessment methods rely on divers to make physical observations and measurements. Often, high currents and the high degree of turbidity of the water make these observations difficult. High turbidity can also prevent lowering a camera from a boat to make indirect visual observations. Another possible approach to this problem is the use of gamma-ray spectrometry. This study used a handheld sodium iodide gamma-ray detector to collect in situ gamma-ray spectra of two soils submerged in water. Study results indicate that naturally occurring gamma rays being emitted by the sediment are detectable underwater. Further, the difference in gamma-ray intensity reflects density differences in the sediment due to disturbances such as erosion. A difference between the Potassium 40 (40K) activity of uncompacted and compacted soil and a comparable rate of 40K signal attenuation as standing water depth increased suggests that underwater detection of in situ 40K gamma-ray emissions is a potentially viable approach to assessing underwater sediment erosion.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 18, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1037262
Entities
People
- Jay Clausen
Organizations
- Engineer Research and Development Center