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The application of GPR and electrical resistivity tomography as useful tools in detection of sinkholes in the Cheria Basin (northeast of Algeria)

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Abstract

Sinkhole collapse is one of the main limitations in the development of karst areas, especially where bedrock is covered by unconsolidated material. Studies of sinkhole formation have shown that sinkholes are likely to develop in cutter (enlarged joint) zones as a result of subterranean erosion by flowing groundwater. Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electrical resistivity imaging or tomography (RESTOM) are well suited to mapping sinkholes because of the ability of these two techniques for detecting voids and discriminating subtle resistivity variations. Nine GPR profiles and two-dimensional electrical resistivity tomography have been applied, with relative success, to locate paleo-collapses and cavities, and to detect and characterize karst at two sinkhole sites near Cheria City where limestone is covered by about 10 m of clayey soils. The survey results suggest that GPR and RESTOM are ideal geophysical tools to aid in the detection and monitoring of sinkholes and other subsurface cavities.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Mines, University of Tebessa, Avenue du 4 mars, 12002, Tébessa, Algeria

    I. Nouioua, L. Gadri & D. Chabou

  2. Department of Geology, University of Tebessa, 12002, Tébessa, Algeria

    Aek. Rouabhia, Ch. Fehdi & R. Mouici

  3. Department of Mines, Badji Mokhtar University, 23000, Annaba, Algeria

    M. L. Boukelloul

Authors
  1. I. Nouioua
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  2. Aek. Rouabhia
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  3. Ch. Fehdi
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  4. M. L. Boukelloul
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  5. L. Gadri
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  6. D. Chabou
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  7. R. Mouici
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Correspondence to I. Nouioua.

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Nouioua, I., Rouabhia, A., Fehdi, C. et al. The application of GPR and electrical resistivity tomography as useful tools in detection of sinkholes in the Cheria Basin (northeast of Algeria). Environ Earth Sci 68, 1661–1672 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12665-012-1859-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12665-012-1859-9

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