Geoengineering field techniques for rock characterization of coastal protection structures

摘要

This study was carried out to improve diagnosis and prediction of geomaterials status from coastal protection structures. A methodology is proposed for the characterization of rock materials and management of the structures. The characterization was organized in different phases: i) visual inspection; ii) field techniques to study geologic-geotechnical features; iii) in situ measurement of geomechanical parameters; and iv) development of GIS-based mapping and assessment of the block materials. The results obtained allowed to define a geotechnical zonation for the structure armor layer, according to the type of geomaterial source, weathering/degradation grade and geomechanical rebound values. The GIS project developed, combined an applied cartography of the groins’ superficial layer with the results of the field techniques. The interactive base included the pilot case presented in this work, from Espinho coastal area (NW Portugal, Iberian Peninsula), which comprises four different sectors. The results of this work, support the need to apply geomechanic concepts to coastal structures, since they allow the evaluation of deterioration levels and improve the planning of intervention works. This methodology contributes to ameliorate the efficiency of monitoring and maintenance, in an economically beneficial mode.