Investigating internal erosion using a miniature resistivity array

Internal erosion has long been a major problem associated with earth structures and its investigation has been limited because of its hidden nature and the difficulty of simulating the field conditions. Laboratory experiments provide a potential insight into the processes involved. A miniature resistivity array probe was designed to produce an electrical resistivity profile of embankment material so that expansion of eroded pipe could be visualised. The miniature resistivity array proved useful in assessing the internal erodability of embankment material.