Caves evolution is controlled by lithological properties, discontinuities, water, climate, and physicomechanical properties of soluble rocks, vegetation and human impact. This study investigates the
cave formation in Upper Miocene-Pliocene clastic rock in Menteşe town of Muğla. The lithology, physico-mechanical properties and hydrogeologic factors of host rocks and morphology of the caves
in Asar Hill and Damlam Stream valley were examined. The caves are 1.47-9.71 m long, 2.24-19.36 m wide and 1.38-27 m high. Four joint sets and bedding planes affect the clastics in the Asar Hill
area. Mudstones (low plasticity clay, sandy clay) are in soft-very soft rock, while conglomerate is in moderate-hard rock class. The mudstone removal has started the formation of the caves. The
vegetation roots act as groundwater circulation paths in the Damlam Stream area. Water has eroded mudstone and muddy matrix of conglomerate following cracks and led to the formation of the
caves. Water infiltration may have led to stalactite, flowstone and travertine formation in Damlam Stream caves. Possible cave collapse could threaten life and property in the Asar Hill area, and may cause the destruction of internal structures of the caves in the Damlam Stream. Thus, precautionary measures such as continuous monitoring and protection must be taken in both cave areas.
The authors thank to reviewers Dr. Hüseyin KARAKUŞ and Dr. İbrahim ÇOBANOĞLU, and editors for their valuable contribution for increasing the scientific quality of the paper.
Birincil Dil | İngilizce |
---|---|
Konular | Mühendislik, Genel Jeoloji |
Bölüm | Makaleler |
Yazarlar | |
Erken Görünüm Tarihi | 28 Nisan 2023 |
Yayımlanma Tarihi | 19 Aralık 2023 |
Yayımlandığı Sayı | Yıl 2023 Cilt: 172 Sayı: 172 |
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