Application of MASW for Foundation Evaluation & Site Characterization of Hydropower Projects in the Himalayan Region

Foundation evaluation and site characterization are important considerations in investigation of hydropower schemes towards establishing economic and secure projects. Accordingly, it necessitates adoption of a comprehensive program involving direct and indirect investigation techniques: In alliance with direct explorations, it is prudent to apply geophysical techniques that are effective in providing reliable knowledge of the underground status. In recent times, the geophysical Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW) technique is proving as a powerful subsurface investigation aid. The MASW is a non-destructive surface wave method that utilizes the phenomenon of geometric dispersion of Rayleigh wave to determine shear wave velocity distribution underground in high resolution 1-D/2-D form. The paper elaborates the utility of the state-of-the-art MASW technique in investigation of hydropower projects in the Himalayan region, exemplified through case studies. The three case studies presented herein demonstrate the merit of application of MASW as an efficient complementary tool for foundation evaluation and site characterization.