Electromagnetic Properties of Subsurface Materials: Applications in Soil Liquefaction Mitigation in Kathmandu Valley: A Technical Review

Abstract

Soil liquefaction, a geotechnical phenomenon wherein saturated soils lose shear strength under cyclic loading, poses a significant threat to seismically active regions such as the Kathmandu Valley. Traditional geotechnical methods, while effective, often lack the real-time assessment capabilities required for heterogeneous subsurface conditions. The research elucidates the pivotal role of electromagnetic (EM) properties dielectric permittivity, electrical conductivity, and magnetic susceptibility in mitigating liquefaction risks. By leveraging advanced geophysical techniques such as ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic induction (EMI), this study explores the potential of EM properties to enhance soil stability and reduce liquefaction susceptibility. Empirical data from the Kathmandu Valley reveal that saturated alluvial deposits, characterized by dielectric constants exceeding 25, exhibit heightened liquefaction potential, particularly in areas with high groundwater tables. The integration of EM data with conventional geotechnical practices offers a synergistic approach to soil stabilization, underscoring the potential of EM-based interventions to fortify infrastructure resilience in this seismically vulnerable region.