A novel subsurface slopes hazardous mapping with engineering geologic and geophysical characterizations.

Area of Science:

• Geotechnical Engineering
• Geophysics
• Environmental Geology

Background:

• Monitoring susceptible infrastructural facilities against hazardous slopes is vital for safety and sustainable development.
• Understanding subsurface characteristics is key to assessing slope instability.
• Previous studies often lack integrated approaches for detailed slope hazard assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the subsurface for slope instability analysis in Peninsular Malaysia's east coast.
• To identify critical zones prone to hazardous slopes using an integrated approach.
• To enhance policy management for sustainable development through effective slope monitoring.

Main Methods:

• Integrated engineering geology, geoelectrical resistivity (ER), and borehole data analysis.
• Engineering laboratory soil investigations using disturbed and undisturbed samples.
• Geophysical mapping to obtain subsurface geoelectric profiles and lithological zones.

Main Results:

• Water-saturated residual soils (ER < 100 Ω-m) identified as prone to slopes.
• Residual soils without water content delineated between 100–500 Ω-m.
• Weathered/fractured bedrock (500–2000 Ω-m) and granitic bedrock (>4000 Ω-m) identified.

Conclusions:

• The integrated method effectively characterizes subsurface conditions for slope stability assessment.
• Identified high-risk zones (water-saturated soils) require targeted monitoring and mitigation strategies.
• Findings support improved policy and management for sustainable development and infrastructure protection.