Infiltration Assessments on Top of Yungang Grottoes by Time-Lapse Electrical Resistivity Tomography

Infiltrated water does not significantly contribute to the weathering process of the Yungang Grottoes, contrary to previous assumptions. Using time-lapse electrical resistivity tomography over a year, researchers tracked rainfall infiltration in shallow soil layers and found that water primarily moves horizontally into nearby gullies rather than vertically into the rock base due to geological constraints. An artificial infiltration experiment confirmed minimal vertical movement, with 10 m³ of water saturating only the top 1.36 meters of soil. This study challenges the role of infiltrated water in grotto weathering and provides critical insights for conservation efforts.

Mao, D., Wang, X., Meng, J., Ma, X., Jiang, X., Wan, L., Yan, H., & Fan, Y. (2022). Infiltration Assessments on Top of Yungang Grottoes by Time-Lapse Electrical Resistivity Tomography. Hydrology, 9(5), 77. https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrology9050077