Confined Aquifer Confined Aquifer: In the hydrogeology branch of geology, a confined aquifer is an aquifer that is overlain (and underlain) by a layer of low permeability, such as clay, shale, or silty clay. In fact, the two confining layers contain the storage and flow of groundwater, such that the aquifer maintains hydraulic pressure (or…

Petroleum Extraction Well (Oil Well) Petroleum Extraction Well (Oil Well): A petroleum extraction well, or an oil well, is a deep borehole or shaft sunk into the Earth for the exploration of oil or gas. Additionally, injection wells are often drilled to inject fluids or gas for stimulating oil recovery, re-pressurizing or pressure maintenance of…

Silicates Definition In the fields of geology and mineralogy, the term “silicates” refers to compounds whose crystal structure contains SiO4 tetrahedra. Silicates are either isolated or joined to form groups, rings, single or double chains, sheets, or three-dimensional frameworks.

“Toe” of a Slope Definition The “toe” of a slope is essentially the bottom, or baseline section, of the soil mass comprising the slope. It is also defined as the outermost margin of displaced material during a landslide. The toe of a slope is farthest away from the head scarp.

Triggered Creep In the field of geology, the term “Triggered Creep” refers to a type of creeping landslide, usually along a fault line, that is triggered by a source of seismic activity.

Waterproofing Barrier System Definition A waterproofing barrier system guarantees full protection to walls, foundations, and methane mitigation systems that are below grade and are susceptible to moisture penetration. Typically, the best way to protect a retaining wall against moisture is the application of a waterproofing barrier on the backside of it, after pouring concrete, but…