APPLICATION OF SEISMIC REFRACTION IN THE CHARACTERISATION OF THE NEAR SURFACE STRUCTURE OF AJERE IN EKORI, YAKURR LOCAL GOVERNEMENT AREA

The aim of the research was to find out the characteristic of the near surface structure at Ajere in Ekori, based on available data sourced from other researchers and researches from the study area. The deployment of seismic refraction method yielded velocities of 283m/s for the upper layer. (complex) interpreted as top soil with thickness of 2.05m. the middle layer has a thickness of 18.7m and velocity of 1572m/s and is interpreted as fracture zone categorized as mild, third layer’s velocity is 3385m/s and is interpreted as bedrock with indefinite vertical extension categorized as simple. The first layer will present challenges to geotechnical engineers for foundation purpose. Based on the orientation of the lithological layer’s rigidity. Based on the distribution pattern of shear velocities, Poisson’s ratio analysis shows two categories of soil lateritics layer of less than 2.0m and 4.5m (thick). The three layers identified were categorized as “complex “mild” and simple; Areas identified as complex structure with top soil will require foundation design than other areas especially when erecting huge building. Whereas areas characterized by thin topsoil and simple layer structure will require simple foundation plan for building development.