Harnessing the power of geophysics for Tunnel/Underground projects in pre-construction, construction and maintenance stages

The need for comprehensive, high-quality subsurface information is pivotal in the design and execution of construction projects, particularly for underground structures like tunnels and caverns. Traditional exploratory work often falls short, leaving decision-makers grappling with incomplete and imperfect data. Geophysical techniques offer a solution, providing an efficient means of subsurface investigation that significantly augments the understanding of underground conditions. These techniques afford a low-cost, rapidly deployable solution, capable of generating comprehensive subsurface knowledge over large areas, thereby enriching geotechnical evaluation studies. Recent technological advancements and the development of portable digital data acquisition systems have enhanced the versatility of geophysical techniques in site characterization and evaluating underground conditions. These state-of-the-art subsurface geophysical investigations aid in minimizing and optimizing conventional direct exploration methods, facilitating an accelerated and cost-effective development of underground construction projects. Moreover, geophysical investigations play an instrumental role in maintaining the quality of construction and performing non-destructive health checks throughout the lifecycle of underground structures. This paper presents a range of applications for geophysical techniques at different stages of underground projects: from planning and pre-construction to construction and maintenance. It further delves into recent advancements in geophysical investigations, underscoring the significant potential for harnessing geophysics in transforming the approach to tunnel projects, ultimately boosting economic efficiency and structural reliability.