I came across this interesting product for structural/geotechnical monitoring of cracks in 3 dimensions. Most crack monitors are designed for monitoring in 2 dimensions, this one can measure movement out of the plane of monitoring. I like that the markings are laser-etched so the simple device should last for a long time. Price is $40/each from Quality Plus Engineering, LLC.
Geologic Hazards
USGS Landslide Documentary Video
The USGS has a documentary on landslide video on landslide danger in the San Francisco Bay area entitled “Riding the Storm”. I think the target audience is more general than geologist or engineer, but it is still interesting. The bullet points from the USGS site:
- A catastrophic 1982 rainstorm triggered 18,000 landslides in the Bay Area, claiming 25 lives and causing $66 million in property damage
- The combination of steep slopes, weak rocks, and intense winter storms make Bay Area uplands an ideal setting for landslides
- Landslides include both swift, potentially deadly debris flows and slower, but destructive deepseated slides
- Learn what USGS scientists have discovered about landslide dynamics and which slopes are most susceptible to sliding
- Hear the devastating stories of Bay Area residents affected by landslides and learn to recognize the danger signs
Click through to view the trailer and for links to download the full video. (Image credit: USGS)
Available Resources
Video: New Redi-Rock Design Resource Manual Available
The Redi-Rock Design Resource Manual or DRM has everything you would need to design a Redi-Rock retaining wall, including block sizes, design charts, construction details, and setback options. The manual also includes case studies and […]
Geologic Hazards
Video: Helicopter Based Rock Scaling “Sledgehammer”
[Updated May 26, 2011] A new, cleaner, longer version of the video has surfaced on YouTube recently. You can see it embedded below. It includes some footage of attempts to "water bomb" the rock loose […]