Engineering geomorphological models of the North-west Yilgarn, Western Australia

This paper presents a case study showing the use of geomorphology to generate design recommendations for linear engineering projects. Landform variations have been described for the Yilgarn Craton in early geomorphological studies of Western Australia, and in programmes of regolith mapping and landscape dating. These variations relate to patterns of tectonics, weathering, erosion and cementation. The paper provides three scales of ground models that capture the material, morphology, environmental history and natural processes of the study area. It also reviews the variation of laboratory test results within the framework of the ground models in order to illustrate the practical value of this approach.