How can you use GIS to map fractures in rock masses?

1 Step 1: Prepare your data

The first step is to gather and prepare your data sources for fracture mapping. You will need a digital elevation model (DEM) of the area of interest, which is a raster representation of the terrain surface. You can obtain a DEM from various sources, such as satellite imagery, aerial photography, lidar, or drone surveys. You will also need any existing fracture data that you have collected in the field, such as strike and dip measurements, fracture traces, or fracture density. You can store these data in a spreadsheet or a shapefile format. Finally, you will need a GIS software that can handle raster and vector data, such as QGIS, ArcGIS, or GRASS.

2 Step 2: Analyze your data

The second step is to analyze your data to extract useful information about the fractures. You can use various tools and methods in your GIS software to perform this step. For example, you can use slope and aspect maps to identify areas with high fracture density or preferred orientation. You can use contour maps to trace fracture patterns and intersections. You can use hillshade maps to enhance the visibility of fracture features. You can use rose diagrams or stereonets to display and interpret the fracture orientation data. You can use spatial statistics or geostatistics to quantify the fracture distribution and variability.

3 Step 3: Visualize your data

The third step is to visualize your data to create meaningful and attractive maps of the fractures. You can use different symbology, colors, labels, and legends to represent the fracture data on your maps. You can also use transparency, scale, and layout to optimize the readability and clarity of your maps. You can use 2D or 3D views to display the fractures in different perspectives. You can use animations or time series to show the fracture evolution or dynamics. You can use charts or graphs to summarize or compare the fracture data.

4 Step 4: Share your data

The fourth step is to share your data with others who are interested in the fractures. You can export your maps as images, PDFs, or georeferenced files. You can also create web maps or interactive dashboards that allow online access and interaction with your fracture data. You can use metadata and documentation to describe the sources, methods, and results of your fracture mapping. You can also use citations and references to acknowledge the original data providers and software developers.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?