Mapping and Characterization of the Marlboro Clay Formation

Abstract

The Marlboro Clay formation is a geologic formation that outcrops in Prince George's County, Maryland, and is of great significance due to its instability. Water well logs are collected to determine ground water quantity. Marlboro Clay can be easily recognized in the water well log's lithology descriptions due to its pink color. The objectives of this study were to provide data on the morphology and problematic characteristics of soils formed from Marlboro Clay to and use water well log data to create an interpolated Marlboro Clay map. Marlboro Clay samples were smectite and kaolinite dominated and had moderate potential volume change ratings. The particle size varied due to infilling of sediments from the overlying Nanjemoy and underlying Aquia formations. An accurate bottom elevation Marlboro Clay map was created which we strongly anticipate will contribute to improved natural resource and urban planning activities where the Marlboro formation is found.