Geophysical Methods in Civil Engineering at CIU

Cyprus International University (CIU) Faculty of Engineering organized a comprehensive seminar focusing on the use of geophysical methods in construction projects. The event, hosted by the Department of Civil Engineering, featured a presentation by Assist. Prof. Dr. Hilmi Dindar. The seminar covered in detail the fundamental principles of geophysics, the main geophysical methods used in engineering projects, their areas of application, advantages, and limitations.

Dindar emphasized that geophysics makes it possible to determine the characteristics of subsurface layers by using physical principles, noting that soils with different physical properties—such as density, elasticity, and electrical conductivity—can be visualized using geophysical instruments. However, he pointed out that geophysical data alone can be open to multiple interpretations, stressing that geophysical studies must be supported with verification data such as boreholes.

The seminar introduced the main geophysical methods used to identify underground structures, including seismic reflection and refraction methods, MASW (Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves), ReMi (Refraction Microtremor), Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), and magnetic and gravity measurements. Examples of how each method is used in engineering applications were presented, such as determining soil properties, detecting buried structures, identifying groundwater levels, and mapping weak zones and voids. It was noted that MASW and ReMi methods stand out in determining shear wave (Vs) velocities, which are critically important for designing structures against earthquake effects.

Significant advantages in terms of cost savings and safety
Dindar stated that geophysical studies help reduce the number of boreholes required in many engineering projects, thereby saving time and cost, and also allow for safe data collection in areas that are difficult or risky to access. It was highlighted that geophysical equipment offers high mobility in locations such as beneath bridges, forested areas, urban zones, and sloped terrains. He emphasized that geophysical methods do not replace borehole or laboratory testing; rather, they play a critical complementary role by supporting on-site measurements and aiding engineering decision-making. Geophysics was described as a tool that reduces risks and increases design accuracy, particularly in large-scale or complex projects.