2026-10-14T06:25:05Z https://www.scidb.cn/oai

10.57760/sciencedb.43976 2026-07-23T15:17:09Z

2026-07-23 Analysis of the Development Characteristics of Shallow Dissolution Cavity in Critical Karst Zones Based on Earth Volumetric Studio (EVS) doi:10.57760/sciencedb.43976 en The karst critical zone serves as the fundamental unit of material cycling in karst ecosystems. In particular, the shallow karst zone plays a vital role in this process; however, its complex three-dimensional structure poses significant challenges for accurate characterization. In this study, we collected detailed engineering investigation data from ten sites in Guiyang City, yielding 4 307 borehole stratigraphic logs. Three-dimensional lithological models were constructed using the geological visualization and modeling software Earth Volumetric Studio (EVS). The cross-sectional areas of dissolution cavities at varying depths, cave encounter rates in boreholes, vertical spans of individual cavities, and weathering characteristics of cavity roofs were statistically analyzed to identify the spatial distribution patterns and controlling factors of shallow dissolution cavities. The results show that: (1) shallow cavity development exhibits pronounced vertical zonation and spatial heterogeneity, with localized peaks in cavity intensity at specific depths; (2) limestone areas tend to develop larger cavities with greater vertical extent, whereas argillaceous strata host cavities concentrated in the shallow subsurface with limited downward propagation; (3) bedding attitude significantly influences cavity geometry—gently dipping strata favor laterally extensive cavities, while steeply dipping strata promote vertical connectivity; (4) the occurrence of multiple-cavities-per-borehole is notable in certain dolostone areas, reflecting the combined influence of fracture-prone brittleness and catchment conditions on vertical cavity development; (5) moderately weathered bedrock is more conducive to the preservation of large voids, whereas intensely weathered bedrock is unfavorable for cavity stability. Overall, the development of shallow dissolution cavities is governed by a coupled control of lithology, bedding attitude, geomorphology, erosion base level, hydrological conditions, and degree of weathering. karst critical zone; dissolution cavities; EVS; 3D geological modeling; Guiyang City Xiao Shunlin Luo Weijun PUBLIC https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ dataset Science Data Bank