The application of the gravity, resistivity and induced polarization (IP) methods on the geophysical interpretation in karst terrains is a useful tool, considering its capability in identifying and dimensioning existing dissolution features such as fractures, voids or cavities, filled or not by water or sediment in the subsurface. The bi-dimensional and three-dimensional modeling of these bodies makes possible an indirect evaluation of the geotechnical-structural context of the terrain under study. The aim of this work consisted on the identification of these features and the evaluation of their shape and dimensions over an area that suffered ground collapses, compromising buildings in this region. Qualitatively, the results indicated the existence of regions where there is water flow or very saturated soil, following the analysis of the correlation among the responses of the employed methods. In a quantitative point of view, gravity and resistivity-IP inversion methods were used. These methods allowed the estimation of the shape and the depth of the anomalies causative bodies. Finally, the results showed that the employed methods can be useful in the investigation of karst features, pointing out fragile regions which can compromise the implantation of physical structures over the surface.
gravimetry; resistivity; karst aquifer system; geotechnical risk
