Ground stability assessment using geophysics and field observation techniques

Inspection of ground stability is necessary to ensure the suitability of an area for engineering and environmental applications. In a certain area, a combination of measurement of cracks and seismic refraction method can provide a better knowledge of the future behavior of the area in terms of its stability. In this reconnaissance study, seismic refraction method and continuous measurements of crack displacement were conducted to detect the stability of an area that lies on the downstream side of the Mosul dam, and to establish its possible mechanisms of failure. The study shows two types of instability, namely, fall and sliding, and these were due to heavy rainfall, springs, and spillway operation.