Environmental Geology and Engineering

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Forests forests	2.4	4.4	2010	16.9 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Geosciences geosciences	2.4	5.3	2011	26.2 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Land land	3.2	4.9	2012	17.8 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Remote Sensing remotesensing	4.2	8.3	2009	24.7 Days	CHF 2700	Submit
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	6.8	2009	20 Days	CHF 2400	Submit

17 pages, 12325 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Comparison of InSAR-Based Land Subsidence Prediction Models

by Lianjing Zheng, Qing Wang, Chen Cao, Bo Shan, Tie Jin, Kuanxing Zhu and Zongzheng Li

Remote Sens. 2024, 16(17), 3345; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16173345 - 9 Sep 2024

Viewed by 798

Land subsidence caused by human engineering activities is a serious problem worldwide. We selected Qian’an County as the study area to explore the evolution of land subsidence and predict its deformation trend. This study utilized synthetic aperture radar interferometry (InSAR) technology to process [...] Read more.

Land subsidence caused by human engineering activities is a serious problem worldwide. We selected Qian’an County as the study area to explore the evolution of land subsidence and predict its deformation trend. This study utilized synthetic aperture radar interferometry (InSAR) technology to process 64 Sentinel-1 data covering the area, and high-precision and high-resolution surface deformation data from January 2017 to December 2021 were obtained to analyze the deformation characteristics and evolution of land subsidence. Then, land subsidence was predicted using the intelligence neural network theory, machine learning methods, time-series prediction models, dynamic data processing techniques, and engineering geology of ground subsidence. This study developed three time-series prediction models: a support vector regression (SVR), a Holt Exponential Smoothing (Holt) model, and multi-layer perceptron (MLP) models. A time-series prediction analysis was conducted using the surface deformation data of the subsidence funnel area of Zhouzi Village, Qian’an County. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of the three models were compared and analyzed. The results show that the three developed time-series data prediction models can effectively capture the time-series-related characteristics of surface deformation in the study area. The SVR and Holt models are suitable for analyzing fewer external interference factors and shorter periods, while the MLP model has high accuracy and universality, making it suitable for predicting both short-term and long-term surface deformation. Ultimately, our results are valuable for further research on land subsidence prediction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Geology and Engineering)

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13 pages, 3296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Analysis of Low-Enthalpy Deep Geothermal Energy Extraction Using a Novel Gravity Heat Pipe Design

by Urban Gselman, Vid Peršak and Darko Goričanec

Sustainability 2024, 16(15), 6660; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16156660 - 3 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1213

Abstract

Geothermal energy, derived from the Earth’s internal heat, can be harnessed due to the geothermal gradient between the Earth’s interior and its surface. This heat, sustained by radiogenic decay, varies across regions, and is highest near volcanic areas. In 2020, 108 countries utilised [...] Read more.

Geothermal energy, derived from the Earth’s internal heat, can be harnessed due to the geothermal gradient between the Earth’s interior and its surface. This heat, sustained by radiogenic decay, varies across regions, and is highest near volcanic areas. In 2020, 108 countries utilised geothermal energy, with an installed capacity of 15,950 MWe for electricity and 107,727 MW_t for direct use in 2019. Low-enthalpy sources require binary systems for power production. Open-loop systems face issues like scaling, difficult water treatment, and potential seismicity, while closed-loop systems, using abandoned petroleum or gas wells, reduce costs and environmental impacts greatly. The novel geothermal gravity heat pipe (GGHP) design eliminates parasitic power consumption by using hydrostatic pressure for fluid circulation. Implemented in an abandoned well in north-east (NE) Slovenia, the GGHP uses a numerical finite difference method to model heat flow. The system vaporises the working fluid in the borehole, condenses it at the surface, and uses gravitational flow for circulation, maintaining efficient heat extraction. The model predicts that continuous maximum capacity extraction depletes usable heat rapidly. Future work will explore sustainable heat extraction and potential discontinuous operation for improved efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Geology and Engineering)

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24 pages, 3959 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Perspective of Using Neural Networks and Machine Learning Algorithms for Modelling and Forecasting the Quality Parameters of Coking Coal—A Case Study

by Artur Dyczko

Geosciences 2024, 14(8), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences14080199 - 26 Jul 2024

Viewed by 704

Abstract

The quality of coking coal is vital in steelmaking, impacting final product quality and process efficiency. Conventional forecasting methods often rely on empirical models and expert judgment, which may lack accuracy and scalability. Previous research has explored various methods for forecasting coking coal [...] Read more.

The quality of coking coal is vital in steelmaking, impacting final product quality and process efficiency. Conventional forecasting methods often rely on empirical models and expert judgment, which may lack accuracy and scalability. Previous research has explored various methods for forecasting coking coal quality parameters, yet these conventional methods frequently fall short in terms of accuracy and adaptability to different mining conditions. Existing forecasting techniques for coking coal quality are limited in their precision and scalability, necessitating the development of more accurate and efficient methods. This study aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of forecasting coking coal quality parameters by employing neural networks and artificial intelligence algorithms, specifically in the context of Knurow and Szczyglowice mines. The research involves gathering historical data on various coking coal quality parameters, including a proximate and ultimate analysis, to train and test neural network models using the Group Method of Data Handling (GMDH). Real-world data from Knurow and Szczyglowice mines’ coal production facilities form the basis of this case study. The integration of neural networks and artificial intelligence techniques significantly improves the accuracy of predicting key quality parameters such as ash content, sulfur content, volatile matter, and calorific value. This study also examines the impact of these quality indicators on operational costs and highlights the importance of final indicators like the Coke Reactivity Index (CRI) and Coke Strength after Reaction (CSR) in expanding industrial reserve concepts. Model performance is evaluated using metrics such as mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and coefficient of determination (R²). The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of these advanced techniques in enhancing predictive modeling in the mining industry, optimizing production processes, and improving overall operational efficiency. Additionally, this research offers insights into the practical implementation of advanced analytics tools for predictive maintenance and decision-making support within the mining sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Geology and Engineering)

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21 pages, 9958 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Collapse Mechanism of Slope Rill Sidewall under Composite Erosion of Freeze-Thaw Cycles and Water

by Wenbin Huang, Shuai Shao, Yuhang Liu, Xiangtian Xu, Weidong Zhang and Yong Liu

Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4144; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104144 - 15 May 2024

Viewed by 959

Abstract

The composite erosion of freeze-thaw and water flow on slope rills is characterized by periodicity and spatial superposition. When revealing the collapse mechanism of slope rill sidewalls under the composite erosion of freeze-thaw and water flow, it is necessary to fully consider the [...] Read more.

The composite erosion of freeze-thaw and water flow on slope rills is characterized by periodicity and spatial superposition. When revealing the collapse mechanism of slope rill sidewalls under the composite erosion of freeze-thaw and water flow, it is necessary to fully consider the effect of water migration and its impact on the stability of the rill sidewall. In this paper, we placed the self-developed collapse test system in an environmental chamber to carry out model tests on rill sidewall collapse on slopes under the composite erosion of freeze-thaw and water flow. We utilized three-dimensional reconstruction technology and the fixed grid coordinate method to reproduce the collapse process of the rill sidewall and precisely locate the top crack. We obtained the relationship between the water content of the specimen and mechanical indexes through the straight shear test. The main conclusions are as follows: The soil structure of the rill sidewall is significantly affected by the freeze-thaw cycle, which benefits capillary action in the soil. One freeze-thaw cycle has the most serious effect on the soil structure of the rill sidewall, and the change in the moisture field is more intense after the soil temperature drops below zero. The friction angle of the soil increases with the number of freeze-thaw cycles and tends to stabilize gradually. The effect of the freeze-thaw cycle on the rate of change of the water content of the soil at each position of the wall can be accurately described by a logarithmic function. The expression of the two-factor interaction effect on the rate of change of water content of soil at each position of the rill sidewall can be accurately fitted. We propose a calculation system for locating cracks at the top of the rill sidewall and determining the critical state of instability and collapse of the rill sidewall during the process of freeze-thaw and water flow composite erosion. The results of this research can help improve the accuracy of combined freeze-thaw and water flow erosion test equipment and the development of a prediction model for the collapse of the rill sidewall under compound erosion. This is of great significance for soil and water conservation and sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Geology and Engineering)

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17 pages, 4831 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Piping Stabilization of Clay Soil Using Lime

by Rawan Aqel, Mousa Attom, Magdi El-Emam and Mohammad Yamin

Geosciences 2024, 14(5), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences14050122 - 30 Apr 2024

Viewed by 1162

Abstract

Construction of earth fill dams offers a cost-effective solution for various purposes. However, their susceptibility to internal soil erosion, known as piping, poses a significant risk of structural failure and resultant loss of life and property. Soil stabilization emerges as a practical technique [...] Read more.

Construction of earth fill dams offers a cost-effective solution for various purposes. However, their susceptibility to internal soil erosion, known as piping, poses a significant risk of structural failure and resultant loss of life and property. Soil stabilization emerges as a practical technique to fortify these dams against such threats. This study investigated the impact of lime on the internal erosion properties of clay soils, focusing on CH and ML soil types. Specimens of different lime content were prepared and remolded at 95% relative compaction and optimum moisture content. Hole Erosion tests at varying lime concentrations and curing durations were adapted to conduct the investigation. This investigation aims to optimize lime content and curing time for cohesive soil stabilization against internal erosion. Findings revealed that 2% and 5% of quicklime, by dry weight of the soil, effectively stabilized CH and ML soils, respectively, against internal erosion, with a two-day curing period proving optimal. Furthermore, the addition of lime significantly enhanced erosion rate index and critical shear strength in clay soil, underscoring its efficacy in soil stabilization efforts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Geology and Engineering)

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16 pages, 3550 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Deformation Mechanism of Underlying Sandy Soil Induced by Subway Traffic Vibrations

by Jinbo Sun, Dingding He, Ke Sun and Liang Gong

Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3493; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083493 - 22 Apr 2024

Viewed by 1001

Abstract

The safety of the geotechnical environment around subways is vitally important for their sustainability. Ground settlement is a very common threat to the safe operation of subways and is related to subway traffic vibrations. Taking Nanjing subway line 10 as an example, field [...] Read more.

The safety of the geotechnical environment around subways is vitally important for their sustainability. Ground settlement is a very common threat to the safe operation of subways and is related to subway traffic vibrations. Taking Nanjing subway line 10 as an example, field tests, discrete element simulations, and a grey relational analysis are carried out to study the deformation mechanism of the underlying sandy soil induced by vibrations. The results show that the vibration load of Nanjing subway Line 10 is mainly concentrated in the vertical direction. The particles’ coordination number below the subway increases under the vibration load, while the coordination number on the side of the tunnel decreases, which may cause a shear dilatancy effect. Among the five microscopic indexes, the local porosity and the coordination number are closely related to the deformation. Although the deformation of the underlying sandy soil is quite small under the subway traffic load, it will accumulate under frequent loading and then lead to urban engineering geological disasters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Geology and Engineering)

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18 pages, 2450 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Deformation Characteristics of Combined Heavy Metals-Contaminated Soil Treated with nZVI through the Modified Slurry Consolidation Method

by Chen Fan, Yongzhan Chen, Qinxi Dong, Jing Wei and Meng Zou

Sustainability 2023, 15(24), 16959; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152416959 - 18 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1167

Abstract

Nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) has been widely applied to remediate heavy metal-contaminated soils and water. Its in situ treatment of combined heavy metal contaminated soil, followed by backfilling or other sustainable reutilizations, attracted attention to the treated soil’s deformation characteristics. In this study, [...] Read more.

Nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) has been widely applied to remediate heavy metal-contaminated soils and water. Its in situ treatment of combined heavy metal contaminated soil, followed by backfilling or other sustainable reutilizations, attracted attention to the treated soil’s deformation characteristics. In this study, soil samples were prepared using the modified slurry consolidation method to simulate the natural settling of backfilled soil and optimize the reactivity between nZVI and contaminants in soil. The deformation characteristics of natural soil, contaminated soil, and soil treated with varying dosages of nZVI (0.2%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 5%) were investigated. Moreover, the plasticity indexes and particle-size distribution of the samples were examined through Atterberg limits and laser-diffraction particle-size analysis. After a 4 d slurry consolidation process, a typical result indicated the immobilization efficiency of all three heavy metal ions achieved over 90% with 2% nZVI. The presence of three heavy metal ions decreased the Atterberg limits and increased the compression index, permeability, and consolidation coefficient of the soil. Conversely, the introduction of nZVI increased plasticity and resulted in higher permeability, stable secondary consolidation, and less swell. Microscopically, with an increase in the dosage of nZVI, the soil aggregates transformed from a weak chemical bond with insoluble precipitates/iron oxides to larger aggregates consisting of nZVI/-soil aggregates, thereby enhancing the soil skeleton. This study shows improved permeability and deformation characteristics in nZVI-treated combined heavy metal-contaminated soil, offering valuable insights for practical nanomaterials’ in-situ treatment in engineering applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Geology and Engineering)

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26 pages, 31104 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling and Assessment of Landslide Susceptibility of Dianchi Lake Watershed in Yunnan Plateau

by Guangshun Bai, Xuemei Yang, Zhigang Kong, Jieyong Zhu, Shitao Zhang and Bin Sun

Sustainability 2023, 15(21), 15221; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152115221 - 24 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1063

Abstract

The nine plateau lake watersheds in Yunnan are important ecological security barriers in the southwest of China. The prevention and control of landslides are important considerations in the management of these watersheds. Taking the Dianchi Lake watershed as a typical research area, a [...] Read more.

The nine plateau lake watersheds in Yunnan are important ecological security barriers in the southwest of China. The prevention and control of landslides are important considerations in the management of these watersheds. Taking the Dianchi Lake watershed as a typical research area, a comprehensive modeling and assessment process of landslide susceptibility was put forward. The comprehensive process was based on the weight of evidence (WoE) method, and many statistical techniques were integrated, such as cross-validation, multi-quantile cumulative Student’s comprehensive weight statistics, independence testing, step-by-step modeling, ROC analysis, and ROC-based susceptibility zoning. In this paper, fourteen models with high accuracy and validity were established, and the AUC reached 0.83–0.87 and 0.85–0.88, respectively. In addition, according to the susceptibility zoning map compiled via the optimal model, 80% of landslides can be predicted in the very-high- and high-susceptibility areas, which only account for 19.58% of the study area. Finally, this paper puts forward strategies for geological disaster prevention and ecological restoration deployment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Geology and Engineering)

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27 pages, 23901 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seismic Response of Earth-Rock Dams with Innovative Antiseepage Walls on the Effect of Microscopic Fluid-Solid Coupling

by Jingwei Zhang, Xuanyu Chen, Jia Li and Shuaiqi Xu

Sustainability 2023, 15(17), 12749; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151712749 - 23 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1262

Abstract

In dykes and dam projects, the microscopic fluid-solid coupling effect from the interaction between soil skeleton and pore water during an earthquake is crucial to consider, as it can lead to dam safety problems. To control seepage in medium- and small-sized dams, polymer [...] Read more.

In dykes and dam projects, the microscopic fluid-solid coupling effect from the interaction between soil skeleton and pore water during an earthquake is crucial to consider, as it can lead to dam safety problems. To control seepage in medium- and small-sized dams, polymer antiseepage walls have emerged as effective measures. In recent years, this method has been increasingly utilized in projects worldwide as it is essential for preventing potential dam safety issues. To address concerns related to seismic safety, this study conducts theoretical analysis, model tests, and numerical simulations to investigate the seismic response of earth-rock dams with polymer antiseepage walls, with a specific focus on the microscopic fluid-solid coupling effect. The dynamic viscoelastic constitutive model used in this study incorporates Biot’s theory of dynamic consolidation and the results of dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) of polymer materials. To validate the model, a centrifuge test is performed, and it is then utilized to study the seismic response of earth-rock dams with polymer antiseepage walls. Furthermore, the influence of factors such as fluid-solid coupling, water level, polymer material density, and wall thickness on the seismic response of dams with antiseepage walls is analyzed. Finally, the seismic safety of the earth-rock dam with the polymer antiseepage wall is thoroughly examined. The results emphasize the need to consider the fluid-solid coupling effect, as factors like water level and design parameters of the antiseepage wall significantly impact the seismic response of earth-rock dams with polymer antiseepage walls. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Geology and Engineering)

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36 pages, 16181 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Machine Learning Techniques in Predicting Bottom Hole Temperature and Remote Sensing for Assessment of Geothermal Potential in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

by Faisal Alqahtani, Muhsan Ehsan, Murad Abdulfarraj, Essam Aboud, Zohaib Naseer, Nabil N. El-Masry and Mohamed F. Abdelwahed

Sustainability 2023, 15(17), 12718; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151712718 - 22 Aug 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2171

Abstract

The global demand for energy is increasing rapidly due to population growth, urbanization, and industrialization, as well as to meet the desire for a higher standard of living. However, environmental concerns, such as air pollution from fossil fuels, are becoming limiting factors for [...] Read more.

The global demand for energy is increasing rapidly due to population growth, urbanization, and industrialization, as well as to meet the desire for a higher standard of living. However, environmental concerns, such as air pollution from fossil fuels, are becoming limiting factors for energy sources. Therefore, the appropriate and sustainable solution is to transition towards renewable energy sources to meet global energy demands by using environmentally friendly sources, such as geothermal. The Harrat Rahat volcanic field, located in the western region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), gets more attention due to its geothermal potential as a viable site for geothermal energy exploration due to its high enthalpy. The prime objective of this study is to present up-to-date and comprehensive information on the utilization of borehole temperature and remote sensing data to identify the most prospective zones with significant geothermal activity favorable for exploration and drilling. A brief description of the selected wells and the methodology used to determine the petrophysical parameters relevant to the geothermal potential assessment are presented. Special emphasis is given to gamma-ray ray and temperature logs for calculating heat production and the geothermal gradient. The effectiveness of various machine learning techniques are assessed throughout this study for predicting the temperature-at-depth to evaluate the suitability of employing machine learning models for temperature prediction, and it is found that XG Boost provided excellent results. It can be observed that some linear anomalies can be traced in the NW, trending on the west side of the Harrat volcanic field based on magnetic data interpretation. The land surface temperature in 2021 exhibited higher temperatures compared to 2000, suggesting potential volcanic activity in the subsurface. It is concluded that the integration of remote sensing data with subsurface data provides the most reliable results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Geology and Engineering)

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12 pages, 2977 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Geological and Climatic Factors Affecting the Correlation between Electrical Resistivity and SPT N-Value in Sandy Soils of Phuket, Thailand

by Avirut Puttiwongrak, Solina Keo, Sakanann Vann, Tanwa Arpornthip, Thongchai Suteerasak and Piti Sukontasukkul

Geosciences 2023, 13(6), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences13060185 - 17 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2812

Abstract

Understanding the technical properties of the subsurface soil is essential for carrying out any building project correctly. In sandy soils in Phuket, Thailand, a correlation between electrical resistivity and the SPT N-value should be established in design to cut down on the time [...] Read more.

Understanding the technical properties of the subsurface soil is essential for carrying out any building project correctly. In sandy soils in Phuket, Thailand, a correlation between electrical resistivity and the SPT N-value should be established in design to cut down on the time and expense of engineering field work for site investigation operations. Using the least squares method, the data of electrical resistivity and SPT N-values were fitted for regression analysis, and the behavior of the fitting coefficients was examined under various soil conditions found in the field. The factors affecting the link between electrical resistivity and the SPT N-value were found using data classifications of geology and climate. Phuket is located in a humid tropical region with frequent heavy rainstorms and extended periods of high temperatures and is composed of two main distinct geological areas: (1) igneous rock and (2) sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. According to the geological classification, the regression parameter (R²) of the relationship between the electrical resistivity and SPT N-values somewhat increased from a straightforward plot (R² = 0.0171) to 0.1721, and the geology and climate data categorization revealed the best fit which is an exponential model (R² = 0.6175). By re-examining the two VES lines under the identical bedrock and climate characteristics as the original model, the relative R² of 0.5519 validates the association between electrical resistivity and SPT N-values. It is important to emphasize that the geology and climate of the collected data have an impact on the correlation model. Furthermore, a geotechnical investigation should be used to confirm the findings of an electrical resistivity survey as a preliminary tool to assess any problematic subsurface zones. However, more field test data from diverse places must be acquired in order to establish the relationship between the SPT N-value and electrical resistivity of sandy soils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Environmental Geology and Engineering)

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