CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
Search Results
Author : Fortier, R.; and Savard, C.
Date : 2010.
Title : Engineering geophysical investigation of permafrost conditions underneath airfield embankments in northern Quebec (Canada).
Publication : GEO2010: 63rd Canadian Geotechnical Conference & 6th Canadian Permafrost Conference. September 12-16, 2010. Canadian Geotechnical Society: Richmond, B.C.
Issue :
Page(s) : 1307-1316.
Abstract
An increase in air temperature in excess of 3 °C over a 10-year period from 1992 to 2002 was observed in Northern Quebec (Canada). This increase induced widespread permafrost degradation in the discontinuous permafrost zone mainly under the form of localized zones of thaw subsidence affecting the performance of roads and airfields built on thaw-instable frozen ground. In a context of fast population growth and increasing resource development in Northern Quebec, the vulnerability of transportation infrastructure to permafrost degradation raises concern for the safety and economic sustainability of the Inuit communities. An engineering geophysical investigation, including capacitively coupled resistivity (CCR) and ground penetrating radar (GPR) surveys, was carried out in summer 2004 at the airports of Tasiujak, Aupaluk, Kangirsuk, and Quaqtaq in Ungava Bay to characterize the frozen ground conditions underneath the airfield embankments and assess their vulnerability to permafrost degradation. CCR and GPR are complementary non-invasive subsurface investigation tools. CCR is effective for characterizing the permafrost conditions while GPR defines accurately the cryostratigraphic contacts. The combined interpretation of CCR and GPR surveys leads to a high resolution cross-section of permafrost conditions. An example of the subsurface characterization capabilities of combined CCR and GPR surveys is given for Tasiujaq Airport which is considered vulnerable to permafrost degradation.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology