Using Electrical Resistivity Tomography to Determine Seepage Zones in the Earthen Dam in Karasai District, Kazakhstan

The issue of the safe operation of hydraulic structures has always been relevant, as their destruction leads to serious negative consequences for human life. In particular, in the spring of 2024, many earthen dams in Kazakhstan have been destroyed due to abnormally heavy rainfall. Therefore, the development of various methods for monitoring their physical condition is in demand. The study of the body and the foundations of hydraulic structures using engineering geophysics methods is undoubtedly very effective. It allows express and non-invasive determination of weakened areas in the dam body, where the process of seepage (filtration) of water from the reservoir takes place. This paper presents the results of the use of the Electrical Resistivity Tomography method to survey an earthen dam in the Karasai district in southern Kazakhstan. During research work in autumn 2023, resistivity was measured, making it possible to determine the nature of water seepage through the body of the earthen dam. The resistivity distribution has been analyzed using the ZondRes2D two-dimensional data interpretation software. Based on the results of field measurements processing, explanations have been given for leakages in certain zones of the earth dam. These studies have proven the effectiveness of the Electrical Resistivity Tomography method for determining weakened zones in the earth dam body. The application of geophysical methods is a qualitative investment for monitoring and analyzing dam stability. The method can be used for the primary assessment of the condition of the earth dam body and determination of potentially dangerous seepage zones, as well as for regime observations of the dynamics of changes in the structural condition of earth dams. The information obtained will make it possible to take preventive measures to reduce the risks of dam failure.