The application of geomorphic indices in terrain analysis for ground engineering practice

Abstract

Terrain analysis studies for long linear engineering projects provide critical engineering geological and geomorphological data that inform project design options, route selection and construction methodologies. This paper introduces the use of geomorphic indices alongside methods of aerial photograph interpretation and remote sensing in the desk study phase of engineering terrain evaluations in the identification of landscape changes and geohazards in active tectonic regions. Three geomorphic indices (hypsometry, river long profile analysis and stream-length gradient index) are applied to freely available DEM data in order to develop the qualitative and quantitative (relative to study area) understanding of how the hillslope and river systems respond to the effects of tectonic activity and climate change. A hypothetical pre-feasibility study corridor (10 km width) located in the Sorbas Basin (SE Spain) is used to develop the methods of application, which could represent a proposed rail, road or pipeline routing. The results of the scaled indices approach, from catchment to reach (i.e. section of uninterrupted river channel) investigations, indicate a variable response of

Incorporating Landscape Dynamics in Small-Scale Hydropower Site Location Using a GIS and Spatial Analysis Tool: The Case of Bohol, Central Philippines

“…Knickpoints are manifestations of perturbations along river channels [44]. In addition, knickpoints are indicators of landscape disequilibrium significant in engineering structures [23]. In TopoToolbox, [28] located knickpoints using the 'knickpointfinder' function that extracts sharp convex sections in the river profile.…”

“…These hazards are either natural or anthropogenic to some degree and usually happen along or adjacent to river channels. Hydropower facilities are sited along or adjacent to river channels, and the stability of hillslopes and channels is critical to the sustainability of the engineering structures [22,23]. Although these factors are critically evaluated in the subsequent phase of system development, it is valuable to have such information earlier to have a priority list of potential sites.…”

Application of Geological Mapping Using Airborne-Based LiDAR DEM to Tunnel Engineering: Example of Dongao Tunnel in Northeastern Taiwan

“…Topographical and geological investigations are essential in every stage of the life cycle of an infrastructure; these stages are the feasibility study, planning, design, construction, operation, and rehabilitation. Results of such investigations not only affect the selection of alignment and method of construction but also provide important information concerning factors that affect structural deterioration or damage and associated maintenance measures [1][2][3][4]. The enhancement of our understanding of topographic and geological information about a site where infrastructure is to be located is a critical aspect of some strategies for adapting to climate change.…”

Appraisal of Tectonic‐Geomorphic Features in the Hindu Kush‐ Himalayas

“…Active tectonic activity and the continually fragmenting landscape have greatly hindered the construction of engineering projects (Hewitt, 1998; Li et al., 2005). Therefore, it is crucial to continuously assess and monitor the tectonic‐geomorphic features in the region (Makkaveyev, 1972; Geach et al., 2017).…”

“…Active tectonic activity and the continually fragmenting landscape have greatly hindered the construction of engineering projects (Hewitt, 1998;Li et al, 2005). Therefore, it is crucial to continuously assess and monitor the tectonic-geomorphic features in the region (Makkaveyev, 1972;Geach et al, 2017).On the watershed scale, the recognition of tectonic-geomorphic features has an obvious role in predicting the risk of future earthquakes and secondary landslides (Lin et al, 2013). Some scholars believe that the relative active tectonic index (IRAT) is an effective tool for evaluating tectonic-geomorphic features and have combined it with landslide frequency to predict regional landslide risk (Chang et al, 2015;Cheng et al, 2016;Partabian et al, 2016).…”