Mine Subsidence Analysis and Remediation

Service Overview

GeoStructures’ site investigations and risk assessments of mines begin with research of historic mine maps, followed by a program of deep test borings, geologic mapping, and delineating subsurface openings through geophysical techniques. Our subsurface investigations assign risk-levels based on controlling parameters such as the ratio of overburden to void height. An added comfort level can be gained by using the finite element method (FEM) to model underground stresses and deformations due to surface loads and site-specific subsurface factors.

For stabilizing ground above old mines, compaction grouting is used. Low slump concrete mixes are initially injected as a barrier before using less expensive, high-slump/low-strength cement and fly ash. The grout fills mine openings in the area of the collapse and also builds columns from the floor of the mine to the ground surface.

Service Offerings

Subsurface Investigation

Research historic mine maps, perform deep test borings, and conduct geologic mapping and geophysical surveys to identify subsurface voids.

Risk Assessment

Assign risk levels based on parameters such as the ratio of overburden to void height, using FEM modeling to simulate stresses and deformations.

Compaction Grouting

Use low slump concrete to create barriers and high-slump/low-strength cement and fly ash to fill mine openings and stabilize the ground above mines.

Scranton, Pennsylvania

Scranton Mine Subsidence

Deep room-and-pillar mines have been active in Pennsylvania’s coalfields since the late 1700s. Sinking of the ground surface above the mines occurs as long troughs…

Southwestern Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Turnpike Southern Beltway

Since 2013, GeoStructures has teamed with the Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania office of Stantec to provide geotechnical design services for a new 3-mile section of the $700-million,…

Scranton, Pennsylvania

Scranton Mine Subsidence

Deep room-and-pillar mines have been active in Pennsylvania’s coalfields since the late 1700s. Sinking of the ground surface above the mines occurs as long troughs…

Southwestern Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Turnpike Southern Beltway

Since 2013, GeoStructures has teamed with the Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania office of Stantec to provide geotechnical design services for a new 3-mile section of the $700-million,…

Eric Seksinsky, P.G., P.E.

CO-FOUNDER AND PRINCIPAL ENGINEER