Environmental geophysics at J-Field, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland

Technical Report · Tue Nov 01 04:00:00 EST 1994

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/10120863· OSTI ID:10120863

Daudt, C R; McGinnis, L D; Miller, S F; Thompson, M D

Geophysical data collected at J-Field, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, were used in the characterization of the natural hydrogeologic framework of the J-Field area and in the identification of buried disturbances (trenches and other evidences of contamination). Seismic refraction and reflection data and electrical resistivity data have aided in the characterization of the leaky confining unit at the base of the surficial aquifer (designated Unit B of the Tertiary Talbot Formation). Excellent reflectors have been observed for both upper and lower surfaces of Unit B that correspond to stratigraphic units observed in boreholes and on gamma logs. Elevation maps of both surfaces and an isopach map of Unit B, created from reflection data at the toxic burning pits site, show a thickening of Unit B to the east. Abnormally low seismic compressional-wave velocities suggest that Unit B consists of gassy sediments whose gases are not being flushed by upward or downward moving groundwater. The presence of gases suggests that Unit B serves as an efficient aquitard that should not be penetrated by drilling or other activities. Electromagnetic, total-intensity magnetic, and ground-penetrating radar surveys have aided in delineating the limits of two buried trenches, the VX burning pit and the liquid smoke disposal pit, both located at the toxic burning pits site. The techniques have also aided in determining the extent of several other disturbed areas where soils and materials were pushed out of disposal pits during trenching activities. Surveys conducted from the Prototype Building west to the Gunpowder River did not reveal any buried trenches.

• Research Organization: Argonne National Lab., IL (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE, Washington, DC (United States); Department of Defense, Washington, DC (United States)
• DOE Contract Number: W-31109-ENG-38
• OSTI ID: 10120863
• Report Number(s): ANL/ESD/TM--77; ON: DE95007494
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

45 MILITARY TECHNOLOGY, WEAPONRY, AND NATIONAL DEFENSE
450100
54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
540220
ANL
CHEMICAL EXPLOSIONS AND EXPLOSIVES
CHEMICAL EXPLOSIVES
CHEMICALS MONITORING AND TRANSPORT
CONTAMINATION
GROUND WATER
MARYLAND
MILITARY FACILITIES
ORDNANCE
REMEDIAL ACTION
SEISMIC SURVEYS
SITE CHARACTERIZATION
SOILS