Sinkhole hazard maping with the use of spatial analysis and analytical hierarchy process in the light of mining-geological factors

Abstract

The problem of sinkhole hazard estimation in the former and present mining areas still remains unsolved. This issue is frequently associated with numerous factors causing that phenomenon. The origin of that factor is not only related to the mining and geological condition of the rock masses in the vicinity of sinkhole. The correct interpretation of grounds for discontinuous deformation occurrence in a given area is particularly important in densely built-up areas. The analyses presented were focused on the identification of risk factors which may have influence on the process of discontinuous deformation occurrence and their spatial analysis. Fuzzy set theory and kernel density estimation support dealing with uncertainty of potential risk factors. The correlation has been established between distribution of this factors and spatial distribution of places where discontinuous deformations occurred. Four the most significant risk factors were taken into account in order to develop probability maps of sinkhole occurrence. Presented approach is based on analytical hierarchy process, which enables integration of that factors. In the investigation both quantitative and qualitative factors were taken into consideration. While modelling discontinuous ground surface deformations, such an approach allows for consideration of complex mining and geological conditions. The effectiveness of the presented solution was verified by comparing probability maps of sinkhole occurrence with the observed sinkholes.