American Journal of Earth Science and Engineering  
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Geo-electric Characterization of Subsurface Lithology for Engineering Applications: A Case Study of Gwandu Formation, Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria
American Journal of Earth Science and Engineering
Vol.2 , No. 2, Publication Date: Dec. 4, 2019, Page: 8-14
502 Views Since December 4, 2019, 217 Downloads Since Dec. 4, 2019
 
 
Authors
 
[1]    

Joseph Aisabokhae, Department of Applied Geophysics, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria.

[2]    

Ologe Oluwatoyin, Department of Applied Geophysics, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria.

 
Abstract
 

A geo-electric survey involving 2-D inverted electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) method utilizing Wenner-Schlumberger array was conducted around the premises of a proposed housing estate within Birnin Kebbi metropolis, northwestern Nigeria. The study aimed at imaging the near-surface formations with a view to characterizing the lithofacies and geotechnical conditions of the site. Six traverses (a – f) were established in approximately E-W direction of length 110 to 125 m and station interval of 50 m, along which resistivity measurements were carried out. The apparent resistivity data were inverted into 2-D resistivity images using the Zondres2D software. Three main geo-electric sequences were delineated within the study area namely; the topsoil (clay and sandy clay), coarse sand and sandstone. There was no major discontinuity (fracture zone) discovered along the E-W direction within the proposed housing estate. The low resistivity top soil unit observed within the last four profiles (c – f) in the area inferred low soil competence which may only safely sustain raft foundation. The higher resistivity characteristics observed in the first and second profiles (a – b) indicated high soil competence for higher load bearing sustainability.


Keywords
 

Geo-electric Survey, Geotechnical Conditions, Birnin Kebbi, 2-D


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