A 3D Quaternary Geological Modeling Method Employing Stratigraphic Penetration to Link Stratigraphic Units

【Objective】Quaternary strata are characterized by inherently disordered distributions and complex multi-layered interbedding, posing significant challenges to three-dimensional (3D) geological modeling techniques. Current 3D geological modeling approaches often encounter limitations when dealing with such intricate stratigraphic architectures, particularly in accurately representing stratigraphic continuity and connectivity sequences. This paper introduces an enhanced 3D geological modeling methodology specifically designed to address the disordered nature and multi-layered characteristics of Quaternary strata. 【Methods】The proposed method is initiated by employing borehole data to identify and process lenses within the strata, effectively mitigating the influence of localized stratigraphic discontinuities. Subsequently, leveraging geological prior knowledge, a hierarchical "major stratum to minor stratum" system is established to standardize stratigraphic sequence, prioritizing the processing of layers exhibiting greater lateral continuity. Finally, thin-plate spline interpolation is utilized to construct the 3D geological model. 【Results】A case study employing 102 engineering boreholes from the Zhongguancun area of Beijing is presented to validate the methodology. The results demonstrate that the models generated by this method exhibit a high degree of consistency with geologist-interpreted cross-sections in terms of stratigraphic connectivity and successfully identify lenticular structures within the subsurface. The approach effectively reduces instances of unreasonable stratigraphic connection sequences arising from unconsolidated sediments. 【Conclusion】This improved method significantly enhances the accuracy of 3D geological modeling for Quaternary strata, providing robust geological model support for urban subsurface digitalization, intelligent geohazard early warning systems, and other engineering applications. It holds considerable engineering application value and broad prospects for wider adoption.