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Geophysical characterization of derelict coalmine workings and mineshaft detection: a case study from Shrewsbury, United Kingdom

Stimpson; Pringle

Geophysical characterization of derelict coalmine workings and mineshaft detection: a case study from Shrewsbury, United Kingdom Thumbnail


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Abstract

A study site of derelict coalmine workings near Shrewsbury, United Kingdom was the focus for multi-phase, near-surface geophysical investigations. Investigation objectives were: 1) site characterization for remaining relict infrastructure foundations, 2) locate an abandoned coalmine shaft, 3) determine if the shaft was open, filled or partially filled and 4) determine if the shaft was capped (and if possible characterize the capping material).

Phase one included a desktop study and 3D microgravity modelling of the relict coalmine shaft thought to be on site. In phase two, electrical and electromagnetic surveys to determine site resistivity and conductivity were acquired together with fluxgate gradiometry and an initial microgravity survey. Phase three targeted the phase two geophysical anomalies and acquired high-resolution self potential and ground penetrating radar datasets. The phased-survey approach minimised site activity and survey costs.

Geophysical results were compared and interpreted to characterize the site, the microgravity models were used to validate interpretations. Relict buildings, railway track remains with associated gravel and a partially filled coalmine shaft were located. Microgravity proved optimal to locate the mineshaft with radar profiles showing ‘side-swipe’ effects from the mineshaft that did not directly underlie survey lines.

Geophysical interpretations were then verified with subsequent geotechnical intrusive investigations. Comparisons of historical map records with intrusive geotechnical site investigations show care must be taken using map data alone, as the latter mineshaft locations was found to be inaccurate.

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Mar 1, 2008
Online Publication Date Mar 1, 2008
Publication Date 2008-06
Publicly Available Date Mar 28, 2024
Journal Near Surface Geophysics
Print ISSN 1873-0604
Electronic ISSN 1569-4445
Publisher Wiley Open Access
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 6
Issue 3
Pages 185 -194
DOI https://doi.org/10.3997/1873-0604.2008014
Publisher URL https://doi.org/10.3997/1873-0604.2008014

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