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The MHVSR technique as a rapid, cost-effective, and noninvasive method for landslide investigation: case studies of Sand Gap and Ozark, AR, USA

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Abstract

Landslides with a shallow and complex bedrock layer, where bedrock topography affects the stability of the slide, are a widespread phenomenon. The current methods for evaluating such landslides include conventional in situ methods and array-based geophysical methods. However, these methods are not capable of characterizing the complete spatial extent of the bedrock layer cost-effectively and are difficult to conduct for steep slopes. Therefore, in this study, microtremor horizontal to vertical spectral ratio (MHVSR) is proposed as an effective tool when used in conjunction with other methods to improve our understanding of the landslide. In this study, the method is used to make a tight grid of MHVSR measurements within the landslide. Using this method, a 3D image of bedrock topography can be created over a larger spatial extent to reveal the potential critical landslide zones. This method is employed for two active landslides that have recently experienced considerable movements. Using the MHVSR, several bowl-shaped features were detected in the bedrock layer, which were not detected using conventional invasive in situ methods. These features play a key role in landslide behavior as they can trap water and create a fully saturated soft zone within the critical slide. Missing such key features in the geologic model of the landslide can lead to errors in the slope stability models and cost overruns in rehabilitation efforts. The grid pattern MHVSR method used in this study offers a simple, rapid, and cost-effective tool for landslide site characterization for sites with shallow and complex bedrock topography.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Civil Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA

    Salman Rahimi, Clinton M Wood & Michelle Bernhardt-Barry

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  1. Salman Rahimi
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  2. Clinton M Wood
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  3. Michelle Bernhardt-Barry
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Correspondence to Clinton M Wood.

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Rahimi, S., Wood, C.M. & Bernhardt-Barry, M. The MHVSR technique as a rapid, cost-effective, and noninvasive method for landslide investigation: case studies of Sand Gap and Ozark, AR, USA. Landslides 18, 2705–2720 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10346-021-01677-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10346-021-01677-7

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