U. Saltzman, D. David
Abstract
The paper describes the engineering response to sinkholes encountered along the coast of the Dead Sea in Israel.
The existence of large salt masses, and ground-water capable of dissolving the salt, together with the tectonic framework and the draw-down of the Dead Sea level, created the sinkholes.
Solving the problem started with a geological survey of the apparent locations of the sinkholes, followed by geo-radar surveys. In addition, Dynamic Compaction was used to densify the ground as well as to verify the geological and geophysical findings.
Especially strong geomembranes were used in the entire area to bridge over potential new developments of sinkholes.
As part of the solution, monitoring should be applied to identify any new, significant depression in order to take preventative measures such as grouting.
The above procedure was used successfully in the construction of the main highway and hotel facilities along the Dead Sea.