Complex engineering-geological investigations of karst phenomena
Researchers give various definitions of the term "karst", but the article provides the clearest wording: "Karst means phenomena associated with the activity of groundwater, expressed in the leaching of soluble rocks (limestone, dolomites, gypsum) and the formation of voids (canals, caves) in rocks, often accompanied by failures and settling of the roof and the formation of funnels, lakes and other depressions on the earth's surface". Karst is widespread in Eurasia. It is developed in Crimea (Crimean Yayli), the Caucasus (Gagra, Sukhumi, etc.), Central Asia, Altai, the Urals, the Far East, Siberia, the Russian Plain, etc. In the engineering and geological study of karst, various types of research are used to establish the patterns of distribution and development of the karst process, the speed of karst formation and the presence of karst manifestations threatening structures. However, the technique of geotechnical study of karst has not yet been developed at all. Great difficulties in developing such a technique are associated with the complexity and diversity of the conditions for the development of karst. In the vast majority of cases, the development of karst adversely affects the construction and agricultural development of territories or the exploitation of mineral deposits. However, the development of karst is not always an adverse phenomenon. In some cases, mineral deposits are confined to ancient karst voids. Military engineers often use karst voids in the construction of military engineering structures. The examples given in the article show the need for a comprehensive engineering and geological study of karst phenomena.