3D Geological Models in Ground Investigation: Examples from the United Kingdom
I. M. Umar
ARGMERING Services Limited, Abuja, Nigeria.
N. A. Yelwa *
Department of Geology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria.
Babangida Jibrin
Department of Geology and Mining, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Ground investigation is currently undergoing a major transition due to changes in legislations relating to liability for damages caused during invasive investigation and code of practice and the need to reduce cost have led to the adoption of modern developments in the form of 3D geological models. This paper reviews the increased feasibility of developing 3D spatial models of shallow subsurface owing to rapid development in information technology. This digitization has increasingly brought about the understanding of spatial distribution in relation to rock and soil material. The paper also reviews their application to ground investigation citing examples from the UK and how 3D models have helped reduced construction risk as well as ensured financial savings during the projects. This has led to the adoption of modern developments in the form of 3D geological models. It further analyses the limitations of these models taking into account other methodologies designed to overcome these limitations.
Keywords: 3D, subsurface, model, investigation, Clyde, geological, borehole