Using Geophysical Techniques To Study Rail Track In An Area Of Ground Movement

Maintaining mainline active rail track in good condition is critical for continued productive and safe use. Thus several railway track sites along the banks of major rivers with histories of ground movement are being studied. The paper presents results of the geophysical survey of one site, 1,200 feet in length, located 100 feet from the Ohio river. The focus is on evaluating track bulk moisture characteristics in track substructure. A geophysical survey consisting of ground penetrating radar, seismic, gravity, very low frequency and resistivity measurements were conducted. A high accuracy differential global positioning system surveying technique was used to determine elevation profile and vertical settlement of the track.