A Computer-Assisted Method for Depositional Model Determination

A software has been developed to overcome the difficulties related to depositional model determination in Geosciences. The implemented methods, Walker, Harper and Turk methods, based on Markov process and Markov chain analysis, have been used in a case study. The results of the analysis are consistent with previous works. The analysis shows also that the results are accurate and do not rely on the used method. Therefore, the obtained depositional sequence is suitable to build a depositional model on which reliable sequence stratigraphic studies can be based.

Resilient Modulus of Compacted Lateritic Soils from Senegal at OPM Conditions

Repeated load triaxial tests were performed on five compacted gravel lateritic soils collected from different locations in Senegal: Sébikotane, Dougar, Pa Lo, Mont-Rolland and Ngoundiane. The study revealed that resilient modulus decreases with the increase of the bulk and deviatoric stress in constant confining pressure. In addition, resilient modulus increases with the percentage of cement for appreciably equal contents of moisture. This effect tends to stop for higher stress. Besides, correlations were made with some models of resilient modulus such as the Uzan-Witczack model (Witczack and Uzan, 1988 [1]) and the National Highway Research Program (NCHRP) model (2004 [2]). The study confirms that both models give very good results with the best correlations being obtained with the Uzan-Witczack model.

A Semi Automated Method for Laminated Sediments Analysis

We developed a software performing laminae counting, thickness measurements, spectral and wavelet analysis of laminated sediments embedded signal. We validated the software on varved sediments. Varved laminae are automatically counted using an image analysis classification method based on K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) algorithm. In a next step, the signal corresponding to varved black laminae thickness variation is retrieved. The obtained signal is a good proxy to study the paleoclimatic constraints controlling sedimentation. Finally, the use of spectral and wavelet analysis methods on the variation of black laminae thickness revealed the existence of frequencies and periods which can be linked to known paleoclimatic events.

Cyclostratigraphy Data as a Proxy for Geoelectrical Data Interpretation: Application to Phosphate Minerals Exploration in Matam (Senegal)

The vertical electrical soundings on the Matam region phosphates deposits are interpreted by inversion. To retrieve lithology from the obtained resistivities, mechanical drilling was performed to compare directly the lithologies and the geoelectrical resistivities. The obtained relation is not simple and is not sufficient to interpret all the VES. This situation motivated the collection of supplementary information from cyclostratigraphy. Geoelectrical and cyclostratigraphic?information is combined using fuzzy logic techniques to build a fuzzy inference system. The obtained results seem to be consistent with the stratigraphy of the investigated region and allow retrieving lithological succession. Further investigations are necessary for more accurate thickness determination.

Geomagnetic Investigation Method Using Iphone^®Integrated Magnetic Sensor

We carried out a geomagnetic investigation using Iphone 4S? integrated magnetic sensor. The investigated area is a faulted sedimentary terrain crossed by basaltic volcanic veins. The obtained magnetic anomaly map shows the limits between the sedimentary rocks and a magnetic body at a given depth. These results are compared to the geometry of the magnetic body as shown by geological maps. The results seem to be accurate for the determination of geometry and the depth of the magnetic body.

Determination of an Equivalent Loading Circle Which May Represent the Loading of the Dual Wheels

This work aims to look for a simplifying surface that can represent the effect of the dual wheels on the variation of the stress and deformation state prevailing during the passage of traffic loads. This was facilitated by the results of Thiam (2016) [4] obtained on the distribution of the vertical contact stress in the space described by the dual wheels. The analysis of the results of this study, on all the loading circles considered, shows that the radius loading circle equal to 0.181 m makes it possible to most probably represent the effect of the dual wheels. With this new surface, the effect of the dual wheels can be determined in 2D. The choice of this load is confirmed by a study in case of overload. Thus, the single axle with dual wheels is represented by a simplified diagram equipped on each side by a disk of radius 0.181 m. These results are obtained using a numerical simulation under Cast3M with a gravelly lateritic pavement.

Evolution of the Deflection According to Truck Overloading—Comparison between Benkelman Beam Method and FEM of Lateritic Pavements

The study of the deflection due to the passage of an axle on a pavement structure has the advantage to make possible to pronounce on the portance, the rigidity and the homogeneity of this one. In the case where the allowed axle load is not respected, surface deflection leads to premature deterioration of the roadway. In order to study the evolution of these deformations, deflection measurements were made by using the Benkelman method in the Fatick-Kaolack road in Senegal by varying the axle load with the following values: 10, 13 and 16 tons on three different zones. The results show a linear evolution of the deflection as a function of the axle load. Also, the impact of truck overloading was studied by considering different values of the axle load with comparison to the allowed axle load by using frequent types of vehicle. A numerical simulation of the Cast3M pavement was done first, in the case of an isolated single wheel with a radius of 12.5 cm, then in the case of an equivalent dual wheel with a radius of 18.1 cm for loads of 10 to 19 tons. In the same way, the pavement design software (ALIZE) is used to analyse the variation of the axle load. The results show a linear evolution of the deflection, which corroborates the measurements made in the field and those obtained by Samb (2014) with a slope coefficient equal to 1.7. Nevertheless, the case of an isolated single wheel of 12.5 cm radius is closest to the measurements with a straight line of slope coefficient equal to 1.9.

Time Dependent Entropy and Decoherence in a Modified Quantum Damped Harmonic Oscillator

The time dependence of probability and Shannon entropy of a modified damped harmonic oscillator is studied by using single and double Gaussian wave functions through the Feynman path method. We establish that the damped coefficient as well as the system frequency and the distance separating two consecutive waves of the initial double Gaussian function influences the coherence of the system and can be used to control its decoherence.

Study and Comparison of Swelling and Compressibility Characteristics of Crumb Marl, Flaky Marl with Attapulgite and Sandy Clay from the Diamniadio Urban Pole at the Oedometer

In Senegal, the Diamniadio, Sebikhotane and Bargny sector contains clay soils that are problematic for construction. In order to have more information on the behavior of the clay soils of Diamniadio, free swelling tests followed by load-discharge cycles were carried out according to standard NF P 94-090-1. These tests were carried out using an Oedometric device on the three samples from the study site (sandy clays with calcareous concretion, marls with crumbs and laminated marls with attapulgite) to apprehend their swelling aspects in saturated conditions. For the free swelling test, a determination of the different swelling phases will be carried out followed by a comparison of the rate of evolution of the phases for the three samples from the site. In the same vein, the compressibility characteristics of the samples will also be provided from load-unload Oedometric tests. Thereafter, we proceed to a comparison of the void index at the initial state of the samples after two charge-discharge cycles and the influence of the cycles on the reorganization of the internal structure of the samples. These studies will provide more information on the swelling behavior of Diamniadio soils in the presence of water.

A Review and Update of Analytical and Numerical Solutions of the Terzaghi One-Dimensional Consolidation Equation

Practical resolution of consolidation problems that we often face requires an extensive and solid knowledge of the different parameters highlighted by the Terzaghi one-dimensional consolidation theory. This theory, with its assumptions, leads to a partial differential equation of second order in space and first order in time of pore water pressure. Analytical and numerical resolutions of this equation allow determining the water pressure variation before and after the application of a charge. Numerical modeling has enabled the simulation of the whole results obtained by the two methods of resolution (pressure, degree of consolidation, time factor, among others) to have a physical analysis and a lawful observation that lead to a suitable understanding of the phenomenon of Terzaghi one-dimensional consolidation.

Contribution to the Numerical Geological Mapping of the Paleocene in the Western Part of Thiès (Senegal)

The locality of Thiès has significant mining and hydrogeological resources that are of major economic interest and necessitates a sustainable management. Most of these resources are contained in the Paleocene. For a better assessment of Paleocene, we elaborated a spatial model using available seismic lines, oil and hydraulic drills. The data were integrated using interpolation, mainly natural neighbor method. The obtained model should make it possible to understand the variation of the lithostratigraphic parameters of the Paleocene. The extraction from the model of the upper and the lower limits showed that the Paleocene is shallow and is outcropping to subout-cropping in the area of Thiès. The model was validated using previously available geological map. Also, a crosscorrelation of the predicted and the observed data showed that the model is accurate.

Railway Traffic Vibration Impact Analysis on Surrounding Buildings by FEM—Case Study: TER (Regional Express Train) Dakar—AIBD

The vibrations induced by railway traffic can affect the stability of structures, buildings and buried structures. To evaluate this impact, this study was carried out considering the case of the Regional Express Train which will connect Dakar to Blaise Diagne International Airport. For that, the modeling software Plaxis dynamic [1], able to generate harmonic loads, is used and permitted to have a dynamic analysis and comparison between static and dynamic load for one passage of the train for 2.56 s. In the modeling, two behavior laws were used those of Mohr Coulomb for the layers of soil, embankments and the form layer, and then the linear elastic model for the rest of the elements. The results obtained showed extreme vertical displacements 40.18 mm for the building and when no load is applied on the track, there was 40.24 mm for a static load, and 40.17 mm for a dynamic load. Also, it was observed for the track a displacement of 33.73 mm for a static load and 19.83 mm for a dynamic load. However, further studies are necessary to take into account the permanent deformation after an accurate cycle of train passage in order to better evaluate the railway traffic impact.

Evaluation of the Impact of Truck Overloading on Flexible Compacted Gravel Lateritic Soil’s Pavements by FEM with Cast3M^©

Within the framework of a FEM of the nonlinear behavior of lateritic pavement of Senegal, the effect of truck overloading is studied to estimate its impact on the deformability of road pavement on compacted gravel lateritic soils. For that purpose, various loading conditions were tested to measure the impact on the critical response parameters of road pavement design. The implementation of the models was realized with Cast3M©. This study allowed us to point out that the observed variations are linear and would help to plan in advance the impact of axle overloads for a better evaluation within the framework of the mechanistic (M. E.) design of pavements.

New Approach of Geomechanical Properties by Scale Effect and Fractal Analysis in the Kedougou-Kenieba Inlier (Senegal-West Africa)

This paper shows geometric aspects of rock masses in the Senegalese side of Kédougou-Kéniéba inlier. The studies are done in one part on sedimentary rocks (represented by sandstones) with stratification and on the other part in igneous rocks (represented by basalts). Geometric studies are the fractal configuration and the scale effect. Scale effect is stud- ied by comparing the results of mechanical tests done in the laboratory and on outcrops. For all samples, laboratory pa- rameters are higher than values of field. In this paper, scale effect is characterized by the decrease of mechanical pa- rameters from laboratory samples to field. The scale coefficient is defined and characterizes the relation between me- chanical properties. More importantly, the scale effect is more significant. This scale effect depends largely on the rock anisotropy. The anisotropy depends on the fracturation and the filling. The scale effect takes into account the fracturation, the filling minerals and their diversity which define the complexity of the rock. The anisotropy is complex;the impact of scale effect traduced by an increase of scale coefficient is the highest. Configuration of discontinuities also defines fractal geometry. This fractal aspect appears on the asperities, the spacing and the apertures of discontinuities. The fractal dimension is different from a parameter to another. All these two parameters estimate the stage of fracturation of the rock in a geological system and depend one on another if they are studied in the same element.

Taking into Account the Effect of Dual Wheels on the Behavior of Lateritic Gravelly Pavements

The representation in the three-dimensional space of the physical model symbolized by the application of the pairing of the wheels described by 2 disks with a radius of 0.125 m and a 0.375 m spacing has the advantage of more accurately simulating the loading. In most cases, the assumption of a uniform distribution of loading on the circular surface is considered. In order to determine the effect of dual wheels, this research proposes a new approach to the distribution of vertical contact stress in three-dimensional space with loading on the circular surface. This allowed evaluating the maximum deformation on the space described by the dual wheels. The results showed that vertical deformation is maximum at the center of each circular surface. The distribution of the vertical contact stress is non-uniform on the circular footprint and has a significant influence on the deformation of the pavement at the level of the bituminous layer. The impact assessment of the twinning reveals that the dual wheels load causes less damage than that of a single wheel. These results are obtained by means of a numerical simulation under Cast3M with a gravitational lateritic pavement.

Relative Dielectric Permittivity Variations during Compaction as a Mean of Compaction Quality Control: Case Study on Laterite Samples from Senegal

This study explores an alternative to the classical use of direct methods, as water content and dry density measurements, for compaction quality control. For this purpose, the dielectric properties of lateritic materials are determined by radar method and are compared with the permittivity determined from the Topp formula and from the CRIM model. This approach allowed to establish a relationship between the geotechnical properties determined during compaction such as dry density, water content or porosity with dielectric permittivity. The obtained results made it possible to determine an optimum dielectric permittivity corresponding to the optimum dry density and the optimum water content that could be used for non-destructive in situ compaction testing. Such an approach should improve the implementation and effectiveness of in situ compaction quality control of geotechnical infrastructures.

Factors Predisposing and Triggering the Phenomenon of Shrinkage-Swelling of Clay Soils in the Urban Center of Diamniadio

The phenomena of shrinkage and swelling of clay induce damage to housing structures every year. Precipitation, climatic changes and drought are the cause of wall cracks due to subsidence or swelling of the supporting soil. This movement alters the balance between the soil and the structures. To explain this defection, the soil is made up of three elements: the solid, the liquid and the gas. Sometimes in a natural way or following a human intervention, one of these elements undergoes an abnormal variation that causes the loss of the balance between land and works. It is in this sense that this article deals on the one hand with the factors of predisposition and triggering of the phenomena of shrinkage-swelling of the clay soils of Diamniadio and on the other hand, the factors of aggravation linked to the lithological heterogeneity and the variation in the thickness of the layers susceptible to shrinkage-swelling. The studies carried out have enabled a deeper understanding of the behavior of expansive soils following their interactions with climate, vegetation, hydrology, hydrogeology, constructions among others, but also the influence of lateral and vertical variations of fine soil facies.

Cartography of Landslide Susceptibility around the Dias Horst and Thies Cliff-Senegal

The aim of this work is to map the susceptibility of sites to landslides. To assess the susceptibility of the zone, GIS techniques were used. Susceptibility factors are selected and split into two groups: active and passive factors. Passive factors regroup all the intrinsic conditions existing on the field at all times. The active factors or triggering factors are present sporadically and are added to the passive factors to trigger a landslide. With the weighted overlay method using ArcGIS?, four scenarios have been developed. A first scenario where only passive factors are combined and three scenarios for which we have for each scenario the passive factors combined with an active factor. With these different scenarios, five levels of susceptibility are obtained in the zone. These levels range from very low to very high susceptibility. For the different scenarios, the results show that the zone consists mainly of very low to low susceptibility with at least 61% of the area, followed by moderate susceptibility (23.54% to 38.24%) and last land with high susceptibility to very high with less than 1% of the surface. Fields with high to very high susceptibility are located on the slopes of the hills. Among the active factors, only the rainfall significantly modifies the percentage of land susceptible to landslide but remains in the field of moderate susceptibility. The predicted susceptibilities are closer to the observed landslides around the Thies Cliff than to the Dias Horst.

Diagnosis Study of the Louga-Ouarack-Ndoyene R31 Regional Road (Senegal)

The degree of structural damage of the Louga-Ouarack-Ndoyene R31 regional road was surveyed using Lacroix deflectographe and geotechnical testing, in order to recommend possible rehabilitation measures aimed at maintaining the high level of service over the projected life span of the road. The data processing and interpretation were essentially based on the French standards and specifications, through which synthetic variables were generated with a qualitative significance?and on the basis of which the extent of repairs and rehabilitation works to be undertaken were suggested. The decision grid thus produced, revealed road structure quality indices of mostly Q3, Q4, and Q5 types for a segment length of 36.954 km (equivalent to some 69.44% of the total road section), which justifies some major reinforcement works. The remaining part of the road section (nearly?30.56% with road quality indices ≤ Q2) is still in acceptable condition, requiring only some?minor maintenance works. The rehabilitation costs were estimated to be of the order of?5,352,000,000 (five billion three hundred fifty-two million) CFA francs, based on local market price conditions.

Effect of Water Content and Grains Size Distribution on the Characteristic Resilient Young’s Modulus (<i>E_c</i>) Obtained Using Anisotropic Boyce Model on Gravelly Lateritic Soils from Tropical Africa (Burkina Faso and Senegal)

This research was carried out to determine the rheological parameters of lateritic soils in order to contribute to the improvement of the technical documents used for pavement design in tropical Africa. The study is based on the loading repeated of cyclic triaxial tests (LRT) performed at University Gustave Eiffel (formerly Institut Français des Sciences et Technologies des Transports de l’Aménagement et des Réseaux (IFSTTAR)) in Nantes with the application of the European standard EN 13286-7: 2004 [1]. The tests were performed at constant confinement stress and using the stepwise method to determine the resilient axial () and radial () deformation as a function of the axial and radial stresses. Four gravel lateritic soils from different sites selected in Burkina Faso and Senegal were the subject of this research for the triaxial tests. These materials have a maximum diameter of 20 mm and a percentage of fines less than 20%. The LRT tests were carried out on samples compacted at three moisture contents (wopm - 2%, wopm and wopm + 2%) and at 95% and 100% of optimal dry density (γdopm). Test results showed that the characteristic resilient Young’s modulus (Ec) of gravelly laterites soils depends on the compacted water content and the variation of the grains size distribution (sand (ø < 2 mm), motor (ø < 0.5 mm) and fines content (ø < 0.063 mm) obtained after (LRT). Materials with a high percent of fines (>20%), mortar and sand (Sindia and Lam-Lam) are more sensitive to variations in water content. The presence of water combined with the excess of fines leads to a decrease in modulus around 25% for Lam-Lam and 20.2% for Sindia. Materials containing a low percent of fines, mortar and sand (Badnogo and Dedougou) behave differently. And the resilient modulus increases about 225.67% for Badnogo and 312.24% for Dedougou with the rise of the water content for approximately unchanged the percentage of fines, mortar and sand. Granularity therefore has an indirect influence on the resilient modulus of the lateritic soils by controlling the effects of water on the entire system. Results of statistical analysis and coefficients of correlation (0.659 to 0.865) showed that the anisotropic Boyce’s model is suitable to predict the volumetric () and deviatoric strain () with stress path (Δq/Δp) of the lateritic soils. The predicted Er resilient Young’s modulus from anisotropic Boyce’s model varies according to the evolution of the bulk stress (). A correlation around 0.9 is obtained from the power law model.