The engineering and Environmental Geophysics Lab focuses on applying non-invasive geophysical techniques to investigate and solve engineering and environmental problems. A key application aims at contributing to solving societal problems as related to global health.
We are advancing the idea of non-invasive characterization of the subsurface of the earth (applied geophysics) to include field studies for environmental and humanitarian causes. Relations between fracture characteristics and concentration of harmful nitrates in groundwater have been established based on worked partly funded by NSF and Petroleum research fund. We are developing theoretical models and redesigning of laboratory measurements as well as field methods to characterize the strength and hydro-properties porous media through non-invasive geophysical technologies. We continue to develop non-invasive methods based on sound physical theories to characterize the stability characteristics of unconsolidated geo-materials.
Examples of our current and recent research work are as given below.
Nitrates and other chemical contamination of groundwater resources in rural Ghana
Through the combination of geophysical, geological and geochemical studies, we revealed nitrate contamination of groundwater aquifers at farmlands in rural Ghana. The contamination is due to unique geology of the area (fractured bedrock covered by thin weathered loamy soil) and the indiscriminate application of fertilizers intended for higher crop yield.
The project funded by Duke University provided a great opportunity for students to appreciate the usefulness and application of their education at Duke and its impact in a global and societal context - providing education and creating awareness to the underprivileged of the need to protect their valuable natural resources and the environment.
Engineering, Petrophysical and Electrical Properties Relations
We develop relations between petrophysical and geotechnical engineering properties and geo-electrical parameters through controlled laboratory measurements. Such relations contribute towards our understanding of how engineering properties of unconsolidated geomaterials affect their geo-electrical response. It also enables geotechnical engineering properties to be estimated from easily measurable geoelectrical parameters.
Stability of near surface earth materials
Through laboratory and field studies, we investigate and develop methodologies to help characterize and monitor micro-structural modifications of near surface earth materials, which influence their geotechnical engineering behavior and stability conditions, non-invasively using geophysical techniques. Such studies provide a good understanding of how changing state of soil and deformational characteristics can be predicted from electrical response measurements. The results are useful in the use of geo-electrical methods in engineering, environmental and geohazard investigations.
Mosquitoes outburst and the environment - Global health perspective
Our project will build a conceptual framework to investigate and explain links between mosquitoes and the environment through a partnership research team involving researchers from Duke and universities in Ghana.