Subsidence resulting from the dissolution of Permian gypsum in the Ripon area : its relevance to mining and water abstraction

Cooper, A.H.

NORA

Subsidence resulting from the dissolution of Permian gypsum in the Ripon area : its relevance to mining and water abstraction

Cooper, A.H.. 1988 Subsidence resulting from the dissolution of Permian gypsum in the Ripon area : its relevance to mining and water abstraction. In: Bell, F.G.; Culshaw, M.G.; Cripps, J.C.; Lovell, M.A., (eds.) Engineering geology of underground movements. Geological Society of London, 387-390. (Engineering Geology Special Publications, 5).

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Abstract

Because gypsum dissolves rapidly in flowing water the subsurface dissolution of Permian gypsum at Ripon results in severe subsidence. The pattern of subsidence and methods of propagation are similar to those which might result from mining. Breccia pipe propagation and bulking factors for Permian rocks are discussed. The implications both of gypsum dissolution and the forceful expansion of anhydrite by hydration in flooded gypsum mines are assessed. The removal of gypsum and possible subsidence caused by large-scale water abstraction and mine dewatering are also considered.

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