Volume 19, Issue 3 (Autumn 2025)
2025, 19(3): 378-413 |
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Jowlar M H, Khamehchiyan M, Nikudel M R, Azadi A. Identify and explore the subsurface gypsum karst formations of the Masjed Soleyman Petrochemical site using geophysical and geotechnical methods. Journal of Engineering Geology 2025; 19 (3) :378-413
URL: http://jeg.khu.ac.ir/article-1-3177-en.html
URL: http://jeg.khu.ac.ir/article-1-3177-en.html
1- Tarbit Modares University
2- Tarbit Modares University ,khamechm@modares.ac.ir
3- Zamin physic Pooya Company
2- Tarbit Modares University ,
3- Zamin physic Pooya Company
Abstract: (1519 Views)
Over the past three decades, research into the factors influencing the development of gypsum karsts has become an active and growing area of study. The mechanically weak nature of gypsum, along with its rapid dissolution and deformability, contributes to the formation of gypsum karsts, voids, and caverns in regions where gypsum deposits are present. This process can significantly undermine geotechnical stability by reducing bearing capacity and increasing settlement. This issue is particularly critical in heavy industrial settings such as petrochemical facilities, where large storage tanks and other infrastructure are founded directly on the ground surface. Consequently, identifying and assessing these processes is essential for the design, construction, and maintenance of engineering projects. This study assesses subsurface gypsum karsts within the Masjed Soleyman Petrochemical site using an integrated geophysical and geotechnical approach. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) was employed across 24 profiles totaling 2,307 meters, also geotechnical data were obtained from 113 boreholes drilled to depths of 20–40 meters. Following data analysis, 32 occurrences of subsurface gypsum karsts were identified at depths ranging from 4 to 36 meters. Subsequently, surface water drainage patterns were analyzed and digitized from historical Corona satellite imagery (1968). In parallel, groundwater levels and flow direction maps were generated using data from electric probe depth finder measurements in boreholes. The integration of these datasets revealed that most gypsum karsts are concentrated in areas where groundwater tends to accumulate and flow. Finally, groundwater sampling and chemical analysis revealed an average sulfate concentration of approximately 1,480 ppm, indicative of a severe sulfate exposure environment.
Type of Study: Original Research |
Subject:
Engineering Geophysics
Received: 2025/08/21 | Accepted: 2025/11/8 | Published: 2025/12/21
Received: 2025/08/21 | Accepted: 2025/11/8 | Published: 2025/12/21
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