Monitoring blasting-induced vibrations in a Québec clay deposit

Blasting operations carried out as part of road projects can generate vibrations that affect the stability of surrounding slopes. However, the effects of these vibrations on clay soils remain poorly documented. To date, few cases of landslides or major deformations have been recorded in these types of soils following blasting. Currently, blasting is controlled by peak particle velocity (PPV) thresholds. In Queébec, existing regulations are becoming increasingly restrictive, leading to a significant increase in blasting costs. This article is a continuation of the recommendations from previous studies, which highlighted a lack of field data on vibrations caused by blasting in sensitive clay deposits, as well as the absence of a clear methodology for carrying out measurements (number of devices, distances between recording sites, etc.). One of the objectives of this article is to show vibration recording data produced by blasting activities in clays in order to gain a better understanding of these problems. As part of this project, two blasting operations were carried out near a clay deposit. Various installation devices and techniques were used to measure vibrations and are presented in this article. These field tests highlighted limitations in the surface recordings, which affect our understanding of blasting wave propagation mechanisms in clay soils. These understanding of blasting wave propagation mechanisms in clay soils. These limitations will be discussed in detail and provide the basis for a subsequent phase of research.