Mapping Emplaced Articulated Concrete Mattress Using Geoelectrical and Electromagnetic Techniques.

Abstract

Articulated concrete mattresses (ACM) are structures placed parallel to the river current for the purpose of stabilizing the concave banks in river bends, reduce the effects of erosion, and maintain the river channel. Over time, ACM's suffer structural fatigue or become damaged and must be remediated or replaced. The results of this research program reported herein describe the development of rapid, safe, and cost-effective geophysical procedures for detecting, delineating, and assessing the condition of emplaced ACM along the Lower Mississippi River. From 10 geophysical methods evaluated, the self-potential (SP), towed electrical (TDC) resistivity, and electromagnetic (EM) methods were selected for further development This report documents the geophysical concepts, field testing procedures, data analysis methods, results of investigation, and summary of the effectiveness in meeting the research objectives. The ACM is an excellent electrical tar for each geophysical method. Each method implemented can be used in both a high-resolution or reconnaissance mode are able to rapidly detect the presence of ACM and delineate the mattress edges. Depth information to in-service ACM, even when the mat is buried under sediment, is best provided by the TDC resistivity, transient EM, and SP methods. The EM techniques are better in providing condition assessment information and detecting the individual mat segments.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 01, 1998
Accession Number
ADA352615

Entities

People

  • Dwain K. Butler
  • Keith J. Sjostrom
  • Robert F. Ballard

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Ground and Sea Platforms
  • Sensors

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Concrete
  • Construction Materials
  • Data Analysis
  • Detection
  • Earth Models
  • Electric Current
  • Electrical Properties
  • Global Positioning Systems
  • High Resolution
  • Magnetic Fields
  • Materials
  • Plastic Explosives
  • Sediments
  • Three Dimensional
  • Two Dimensional

Readers

  • Coastal and Marine Engineering/Sediment Transport/Hydraulic Engineering
  • Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Pavement Materials Engineering.