Work

Surveying and High-Resolution Topography of the Ochtiná Aragonite Cave Based on TLS and Digital Photogrammetry

Year: 2020

Type: article

Abstract: The Ochtiná Aragonite Cave (Slovakia, Central Europe) is a world-famous karst phenomenon of significant geological, geomorphological, and mineralogical values. Its specific origin is determined by particular lithological and hydrogeological conditions of the Ochtiná karst formed in lenses of Paleozoic crystalline limestones, partly metasomatically altered to ankerite and siderite. Although the cave is only 300 m long, it represents a combined labyrinth consisting in parallel tectonically controlled halls and passages, that are largely interconnected through transverse conduits of phreatic and epiphreatic morphology with many medium- and small-scale forms originated in slowly moving or standing water (flat solution ceilings, wall inward-inclined facets, water table notches, convectional cupolas, and spongework-like hollows). The highly dissected and irregular morphologies of the cave were surveyed with terrestrial laser scanning and digital photogrammetry. Both used surveying technologies proved to be suitable for quick and accurate mapping of the complicated cave pattern. While terrestrial laser scanning can provide a rapid survey of larger and more complex areas with results delivered directly in the field, digital photogrammetry is able to generate very high-resolution models with quality photo-texture for mapping of small-scale morphologies. Several data on cave morphometry were generated from terrestrial laser scanning (e.g., the area of cave ground plan, the peripheral surface of underground spaces, and their volume). The new detailed map, sections, and 3D model create an innovation platform for a more detailed study on the morphology and genesis of this unusual cave also for its environmental protection and use in tourism.

Source: Applied Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/app10134633

Authors: Katarína Pukanská, Karol Bartoš, Pavel Bella, Juraj Gašinec, Peter Blistan, Ľudovít Kovanič

Institutions: Technical University of Košice, Slovak Caves Administration, Catholic University in Ruzomberok

Language: English

Topic: 3D Surveying and Cultural Heritage

Subfield: Geology

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,901

Funders: Ministerstvo školstva, vedy, výskumu a športu Slovenskej republiky, Kultúrna a Edukacná Grantová Agentúra MŠVVaŠ SR, Vedecká Grantová Agentúra MŠVVaŠ SR a SAV