Engineering-geomorphological units of Grey Istria: lithological control on badland denudation
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Abstract
Grey Istria is characterized by extensive badland development within marl-dominated flysch and flysch-like deposits, where lithology exerts a primary control on slope degradation and denudation. This study aims to validate the preliminary engineering–geomorphological (EG) subdivision of the Grey Istria flysch by integrating sample-scale and outcrop-scale evidence. The proposed EG units were evaluated using marl durability testing, calcimetry, Geological Strength Index (GSI) assessment, and denudation measurements from representative badland test plots.
Four EG units were defined and tested in order to examine whether this subdivision is supported by measurable differences in material properties and field behaviour. The results confirm that it is justified both at the sample scale, through durability and calcimetric analyses, and at the outcrop scale, through GSI-based characterization and denudation measurements on badlands. Together, these approaches indicate that the subdivision is supported by evidence obtained at both the sample and outcrop scales.
The study demonstrates that engineering–geomorphological subdivision of the Grey Istria flysch is both conceptually and materially justified. Such subdivision provides a useful framework for geomorphological interpretation, erosion assessment, hazard analysis, and future large-scale engineering–geomorphological mapping.
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