Sequence Stratigraphy and Engineering Geology of Lawrence Formation (Douglas Group) in Northeastern Kansas

US Transportation Collection2007PDFTech ReportHoglund, Christopher J.Archer, Allen W.Kansas State University, ManhattanKansas. Dept. of Transportation. Bureau of Materials & ResearchKansas. Dept. of Transportation. Bureau of Materials & ResearchKansasUnited StatesCalcium carbonateClay mineralsDurabilityEngineeringPetrographySlope stabilityStratigraphyLimestoneMudstonesGeotechnologyHighwaysI41: General Soil SurveysI43: Rock MechanicsKS-06-3Final Report January 2005 \u2013 August 2006Numerous cases of rock and slope instability in the Lawrence Formation (Virgilian Series, Douglas Group) have been encountered in construction, excavation, and highway projects in eastern Kansas (Archer, 1992). This formation consists of a thick interval of shales, mudstones, sands, and local marine limestone (Joeckel, 1994). Because of its heterolithic nature, the factors controlling rock/slope stability will vary throughout this formation. Furthermore, failures that occur following project completion are extremely costly. The principle objective of this report is to provide a detailed facies characterization of the Lawrence Formation that identifies the sedimentological and depositional properties and their corresponding durabilities. In order to identify potential areas that will be the most susceptible to failure, the following tests were conducted: Slake Durability, Jar Slake Index, Chittick (CaCO3 content), water absorption, clay mineralogy (XRD), and petrographic thin sections. This research will provide a better representation of the spatial distribution of the variability and durability within and between this problematic formation. The results will be useful for both engineers and contractors that encounter the Lawrence Formation in assessing the risk of rock/slope instability for future project developments. This research will not only benefit future project/construction costs, but it will also assist in protecting the safety of people and the environment.120