Physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties of Mexico City sediments: a geotechnical perspective

Abstract

Geotechnical, physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties of the sediments of Ramón López Velarde Park were examined. The site is located in the ancient lacustrine zone of Mexico City. In situ tests included a resistivity survey, soundings with an electric cone, and cross-hole seismic tests. In addition, a continuous core was obtained for the upper 40 m. This core was extensively studied in the laboratory to determine the variation of mineralogy, pH, organic matter, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and structural features with depth. The information is unique with respect to previous studies which focused on specimens at a single depth. Results facilitate the interpretation of the deposit evolution, leading to the current properties of this unique lacustrine sequence.Key words: Mexico City, geotechnical properties, lacustrine sediments, physical properties, mineralogy, chemical properties.