Study on the Methodology of Florida Sinkhole Identification, Monitoring, and Mitigation

Sinkholes are a significant geohazard in karst topography areas with life-threatening consequences and a need for timely detection and mitigation. However, sinkholes are challenging to characterize and a multi-disciplinary task. Currently, deterministic methods (e.g., analytical and numerical solutions) have been developed to provide a more robust analysis of sinkhole raveling in Central Florida but have limited applications for sinkholes throughout the state of Florida. Additionally, the mitigation methods after identification, such as grouting, need significant improvement based on currently available data. This study presents a four-step approach for improving sinkhole identification and mitigation: (1) build a substantial sinkhole geotechnical testing database for all areas of Florida; (2) use the expanded database to evaluate previously created sinkhole indices and raveling chart; (3) develop an effective method of monitoring susceptible sinkhole locations and (4) develop a sinkhole mitigation technique based on the existing site investigation data, specifically through grouting. These deliverables were developed through the collection of an extensive data set of geotechnical investigations performed in karst landscapes for sinkhole investigation and mitigation purposes throughout Florida. The methodology and conclusion of this research aim to provide safer and more cost-effective geotechnical evaluations and designs