Geotechnical Investigation Midterm Prep

Geotechnical_Investigations_for_Co…
Presentation

Prepare a course for my midterm examinations based on

this presentation file given by my professor and also
syllabus :

Objective, engineering classification of rocks, Field

identification of soil and rock, stages of site investigation,
bore hole drilling, geophysical survey, PLT and SPT,
Borehole depth, spacing and layout,
Borelogs, drilling parameters (RQD, SCR, TCR, CL), Sampling
( different types of samplers, sample preservation and
transportation).

Midterm Examination Course Plan for Geotechnical Investigations

Based on the syllabus and the provided presentation, here is a structured course plan for
your midterm preparation:

1. Objective and Importance of Geotechnical

Investigations
Understanding soil and rock properties

Determining depth, thickness, and extent of strata

Evaluating bearing capacity, settlement, and earth pressure

Identifying geotechnical hazards and site feasibility

2. Engineering Classification of Rocks

Classification based on:

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 Mineralogy (igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic)

Weathering & Strength (fresh, slightly weathered, highly weathered)

Discontinuities (bedding planes, joints, faults)

Rock Mass Classification Systems:

Rock Mass Rating (RMR)

Rock Structure Rating (RSR)

Unified Rock Classification

3. Field Identification of Soil and Rock

Soil Identification:

Grain size distribution

Plasticity and consistency

Moisture content and color

Rock Identification:

Weathering grade

Hardness and strength

Discontinuity spacing

Field Tests for Identification:

Dry Strength Test

Dispersion Test

Pocket Penetrometer Test

4. Stages of Site Investigation

Preliminary Stage:

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 Desk Study, Aerial Survey

Walkover Reconnaissance

Visual identification of soil/rock

Geophysical Survey:

Seismic Refraction

Electrical Resistivity

Detailed Investigation:

Borehole drilling and logging

Sampling and laboratory testing

Final Stage:

Data interpretation

Preparation of Geotechnical Report

5. Borehole Drilling
Objectives:

To determine subsurface soil/rock layers

To collect soil and rock samples

To assess groundwater conditions

Drilling Methods:

Auger Boring: Hand auger and power auger

Wash Boring: Jetting water through a drill bit

Percussion Drilling: Heavy hammer and bit

Rotary Core Drilling: Continuous coring with a diamond bit

Borehole Depth, Spacing & Layout Considerations

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6. Geophysical Survey
Methods:

Seismic Refraction: Wave velocity changes in subsurface layers

Electrical Resistivity: Measures resistivity to determine soil stratification

Advantages & Limitations of Each Method

7. Plate Load Test (PLT) & Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

PLT:

Determines bearing capacity and settlement characteristics

Limitations: Small plate size, short test duration

SPT:

Measures soil resistance to penetration

Provides N-value for soil strength assessment

8. Borehole Logging and Drilling Parameters

Borelog Information:

Soil and rock description at different depths

Sampling details and groundwater level

Drilling Parameters:

Rock Quality Designation (RQD)

Solid Core Recovery (SCR)

Total Core Recovery (TCR)

Core Loss (CL)

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9. Soil/Rock Sampling
Types of Samplers:

Disturbed Sampling: SPT samplers, split spoon samplers

Undisturbed Sampling: Shelby tube, Piston samplers

Sample Preservation & Transportation:

Group A: Visual identification samples

Group B: Moisture content and classification tests

Group C & D: Undisturbed samples for strength, permeability tests

Midterm Study Strategy

1. Daily Study Plan:

Day 1: Objectives & Classification of Rocks

Day 2: Field Identification of Soil & Rock

Day 3: Stages of Site Investigation

Day 4: Borehole Drilling & Geophysical Surveys

Day 5: PLT & SPT

Day 6: Borehole Logging & Sampling Techniques

Day 7: Revision & Practice Questions

2. Answer Writing Practice:

Explain stages of site investigation with an example.

Compare SPT and PLT with applications.

Discuss the importance of RQD, SCR, and TCR in drilling.

Explain different soil sampling techniques and their applications.

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This course plan ensures comprehensive preparation for your midterm exams, covering all
key topics. Let me know if you need further breakdowns or explanations!

More sample questions I answer to all,

Midterm Exam Practice Questions – Geotechnical Investigations

1. Objective & Importance of Geotechnical Investigations

1. Why is geotechnical investigation important for construction projects?

2. How does geotechnical investigation help in foundation design?

3. What are the key parameters determined during a site investigation?

2. Engineering Classification of Rocks

4. What are the main engineering classifications of rocks? Explain with examples.

5. How do mineral composition and weathering affect rock classification?

6. Explain Rock Mass Rating (RMR) and its significance in geotechnical engineering.

3. Field Identification of Soil and Rock

7. What field methods are used to identify soil types?

8. Describe the procedure for determining the hardness of a rock sample in the field.

9. What tests can be performed on-site to assess soil consistency?

4. Stages of Site Investigation

10. What are the main stages of site investigation? Describe each stage briefly.

11. Explain the importance of a desk study in geotechnical investigations.

12. How does a walkover survey help in preliminary site investigation?

5. Borehole Drilling

13. What are the different methods of borehole drilling? Explain their advantages and
disadvantages.

14. How do you determine the depth and spacing of boreholes for site investigation?

15. Explain the difference between rotary drilling and percussion drilling.

6. Geophysical Survey

16. Describe the working principle of seismic refraction and electrical resistivity methods.

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17. What are the advantages and limitations of geophysical surveys in site investigations?

18. Explain how geophysical methods help in detecting subsurface anomalies.

7. Plate Load Test (PLT) & Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

19. Explain the Plate Load Test procedure and its applications.

20. How is the Standard Penetration Test (SPT) conducted?

21. What are the limitations of the Plate Load Test?

22. How do you interpret SPT N-values for different soil types?

8. Borehole Logging and Drilling Parameters

23. What information is recorded in a borehole log?

24. Explain the significance of Rock Quality Designation (RQD) in geotechnical

investigations.

25. Define and compare Solid Core Recovery (SCR), Total Core Recovery (TCR), and Core
Loss (CL).

9. Soil/Rock Sampling

26. What are the different types of soil samplers? Explain their uses.

27. What precautions should be taken to preserve and transport undisturbed soil samples?

28. How does sample disturbance affect geotechnical testing results?

29. Compare disturbed and undisturbed soil sampling techniques.

10. Borehole Depth, Spacing, and Layout

30. What factors influence the determination of borehole depth in site investigations?

31. How is borehole spacing decided for different types of structures?

32. Explain the layout considerations for boreholes in large construction projects.

These questions will test both theoretical understanding and practical application of
concepts. If you answer all of them, you will have a strong grasp of the subject for your
midterm exams!

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 Answer all of these in good length not 2/3 lines,properly

Answering all these questions in detail will take considerable space. To ensure clarity and
organization, I will structure the answers in multiple parts. Here’s Part 1, covering questions
1-10 in detail.

Part 1: Answers to Geotechnical Investigation Questions

1. Why is geotechnical investigation important for construction
projects?
Geotechnical investigation is crucial because it provides detailed information about
subsurface conditions, helping engineers design safe and cost-effective foundations. It
assesses soil and rock properties, bearing capacity, settlement potential, groundwater
conditions, and possible geotechnical hazards. Without proper site investigation, structures
may suffer from foundation failures, excessive settlement, landslides, or soil liquefaction.
Proper investigation reduces project risks and ensures compliance with engineering
standards.

2. How does geotechnical investigation help in foundation design?

Foundation design depends on the strength, compressibility, and stability of the soil or rock
at a site. A geotechnical investigation helps determine:

Bearing capacity to decide whether shallow or deep foundations are needed.

Settlement characteristics to ensure long-term stability.

Soil classification to identify problems like expansive clay or loose sand.

Groundwater table which affects excavation, foundation type, and drainage design.
This information helps engineers design stable and economical foundations suited to
site conditions.

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3. What are the key parameters determined during a site
investigation?
A site investigation determines several parameters, including:

1. Soil and rock stratigraphy – Identifying different layers and their properties.

2. Soil strength – Measured through tests like the Standard Penetration Test (SPT) and
Plate Load Test (PLT).

3. Bearing capacity – Helps decide suitable foundation types.

4. Settlement characteristics – To predict how much a structure will settle over time.

5. Groundwater conditions – Affects excavation, foundation stability, and drainage.

6. Soil permeability – Important for drainage and dewatering systems.

7. Geotechnical hazards – Identifying risks like landslides, liquefaction, or expansive soils.

4. What are the main engineering classifications of rocks? Explain

with examples.
Rocks are classified based on origin, mineral composition, strength, weathering, and
discontinuities.

(A) Classification by Origin

1. Igneous Rocks – Formed from cooled magma/lava (e.g., granite, basalt).

2. Sedimentary Rocks – Formed by compaction of sediments (e.g., sandstone, limestone).

3. Metamorphic Rocks – Altered due to heat and pressure (e.g., marble, schist).

(B) Classification by Weathering

1. Fresh Rock – Unweathered and strong.

2. Moderately Weathered – Some decomposition but still retains strength.

3. Highly Weathered – Weak, decomposed, and fractured.

(C) Classification by Strength

1. Very Strong (>100 MPa) – Granite, Basalt.

2. Strong (50-100 MPa) – Sandstone.

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 3. Medium Strength (10-50 MPa) – Shale, Siltstone.

4. Weak Rocks (<10 MPa) – Claystone, Weathered Rocks.

This classification helps engineers decide rock excavation methods and foundation
requirements.

5. How do mineral composition and weathering affect rock

classification?
Mineral Composition: Determines rock strength, durability, and behavior under load.
For example, granite (rich in quartz) is strong, while shale (rich in clay minerals) is weak
and prone to swelling.

Weathering: Weakens rocks by altering their mineral structure. Fresh rocks are strong,
while highly weathered rocks may be weak and fractured, affecting excavation and
foundation stability.

6. Explain Rock Mass Rating (RMR) and its significance in geotechnical

engineering.
RMR is a classification system developed by Bieniawski (1976) to assess the quality of a rock
mass based on:

1. Strength of intact rock (MPa).

2. RQD (Rock Quality Designation) – Percentage of solid core recovery.

3. Spacing of discontinuities – Closely spaced fractures weaken rock mass.

4. Condition of discontinuities – Smooth, rough, or infilled fractures.

5. Groundwater conditions – Dry, damp, or wet rock affects stability.

Significance:

Helps in tunnel, slope, and foundation design.

Determines excavation methods (blasting or manual excavation).

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 Guides support system selection (rock bolts, shotcrete, etc.).

7. What field methods are used to identify soil types?

Several field identification tests are used to classify soil:

1. Visual Inspection – Color, texture, and presence of organic material.

2. Feel Test – Wet soil rubbed between fingers (clay is sticky, sand is rough).

3. Dry Strength Test – Crushing dry soil lumps to check cohesion.

4. Shaking Test – Detects silt by shaking wet soil in hand (water rises in silty soils).

5. Pocket Penetrometer Test – Estimates unconfined compressive strength.

6. Dispersion Test – Detects swelling clays (soil disintegrates in water).

These tests help engineers decide soil suitability for foundations and construction.

8. Describe the procedure for determining the hardness of a rock

sample in the field.
The hardness of a rock is commonly assessed using:

1. Mohs Hardness Test – Scratching the rock with different minerals (e.g., quartz = 7, talc =
1).

2. Hammer Test – Hitting the rock with a hammer to check resistance.

3. Point Load Test – Applying pressure using a point load tester.

4. Rebound Hammer Test – Measures surface hardness using a Schmidt Hammer.

Rock hardness influences excavation techniques and foundation stability.

9. What tests can be performed on-site to assess soil consistency?

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Soil consistency refers to its resistance to deformation. Common field tests include:

1. Hand Penetrometer Test – Measures resistance to penetration.

2. Shear Vane Test – Determines shear strength of cohesive soils.

3. Plasticity Test – Rolling soil into threads; if it cracks, it has low plasticity.

4. Field Permeability Test – Measures how easily water flows through soil.

5. Proctor Test (Field Compaction Test) – Ensures proper soil compaction.

These tests help determine soil strength, compaction, and suitability for construction.

10. What are the main stages of site investigation? Describe each
stage briefly.
Site investigation involves four main stages:

1. Desk Study (Preliminary Investigation)

Collection of existing maps, satellite images, and reports.

Identifying past land use, geology, and environmental concerns.

2. Site Reconnaissance (Walkover Survey)

Physical inspection of terrain, soil, vegetation, and nearby structures.

Identifying potential geotechnical hazards.

3. Detailed Site Investigation

Borehole drilling and soil/rock sampling.

Geophysical surveys (seismic, resistivity).

Field and laboratory tests to determine geotechnical properties.

4. Reporting & Interpretation

Analyzing collected data and making engineering recommendations.

Providing foundation design criteria, settlement analysis, and hazard assessment.

Each stage is crucial in minimizing risks and ensuring safe construction.

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This concludes Part 1 (Q1-Q10). I will continue with Part 2 (Q11-Q20) in the next response.
Let me know if you want any modifications or if you'd like me to continue!

Good going, finish all plus earlier 4 questions too, given

under answer writing

I'll now continue with Part 2 (Q11-Q20) and systematically complete all questions, including
the extra ones you requested for answer writing practice.

Part 2: Answers to Geotechnical Investigation Questions

11. Explain the importance of a desk study in geotechnical
investigations.
A desk study is the first stage of site investigation, involving the collection and analysis of
existing information about the site. It helps in planning the subsequent phases of
investigation and minimizes uncertainties.

Key Aspects of Desk Study:

1. Review of Existing Maps:

Topographical maps: Show elevation, drainage, and landforms.

Geological maps: Provide rock types, faults, and formations.

Hydrogeological maps: Indicate groundwater conditions.

2. Historical Data Collection:

Previous land use, contamination risks, and foundation failures.

Records of past geotechnical investigations at nearby sites.

3. Case Studies:

Similar projects in the area help predict potential problems.

4. Legal and Environmental Considerations:

Building codes, zoning regulations, and environmental impact assessments.

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A well-conducted desk study saves time and costs by avoiding unnecessary field
investigations and identifying potential hazards early.

12. How does a walkover survey help in preliminary site

investigation?
A walkover survey (site reconnaissance) is a physical inspection of the site to gather real-
time observations that cannot be obtained from desk studies.

Key Objectives of Walkover Survey:

1. Visual Soil and Rock Identification:

Identifies exposed rock formations, soil deposits, and discontinuities.

Locates soft soil areas, loose fill, and waterlogged zones.

2. Site Accessibility and Constraints:

Checks access for drilling rigs and heavy equipment.

Identifies obstacles like power lines, underground utilities, and traffic constraints.

3. Existing Structures and Geohazards:

Assesses cracks in buildings, retaining walls, and roads.

Identifies signs of slope instability, landslides, or erosion.

4. Groundwater Conditions:

Observing nearby wells, seepage points, and water bodies.

Importance:

Ensures efficient planning for detailed investigations.

Helps identify potential geotechnical hazards like collapsible soil, expansive clay, or
liquefaction-prone areas.

13. What are the different methods of borehole drilling? Explain their
advantages and disadvantages.

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1. Auger Boring

Hand Auger: Used for shallow depths (~2-3m) in soft soils.

Power Auger: Mechanized version for deeper drilling (~30m).

Advantages: Quick, cost-effective, suitable for soft soils.

Disadvantages: Not effective in hard soils, cannot collect undisturbed samples.

2. Wash Boring

Uses high-pressure water jet to break soil and bring cuttings to the surface.

Advantages: Simple and inexpensive, good for soft-to-medium soils.

Disadvantages: Cannot drill through hard rock, samples are disturbed.

3. Percussion Drilling

Uses a hammering bit to break soil/rock while water flushes out debris.

Advantages: Works in dense/stiff soils and rock.

Disadvantages: Slow, produces highly disturbed samples.

4. Rotary Drilling

Uses a rotating drill bit (diamond/tungsten) with drilling fluid circulation.

Advantages: Provides high-quality rock cores, works in all soil/rock types.

Disadvantages: Expensive, requires specialized equipment.

Each method is selected based on soil type, required sample quality, and project needs.

14. How do you determine the depth and spacing of boreholes for site
investigation?

1. Factors Affecting Borehole Depth:

Type of Structure: Taller buildings require deeper boreholes (~1.5-2 times foundation
width).

Soil/Rock Properties: Must drill until a stable bearing layer is found.

Groundwater Conditions: Depth of water table affects excavation and dewatering plans.

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2. Borehole Spacing Guidelines:

Buildings: 15-30m apart.

Bridges: 20-50m apart at piers and abutments.

Highways: 200-500m apart (more frequent in weak soils).

Borehole depth should extend beyond the influence zone of the structure to avoid
foundation failure due to settlement.

15. Explain the difference between rotary drilling and percussion

drilling.
Feature Rotary Drilling Percussion Drilling

Mechanism Rotating drill bit Hammering action

Suitable for Soft soil to hard rock Stiff soil and rock

Sample Quality High-quality undisturbed core samples Highly disturbed samples

Speed Faster Slower

Cost Expensive Moderate

Rotary drilling is preferred for deep, high-precision boreholes, while percussion drilling is
used for dense soils and hard rock formations where rotary drilling may be ineffective.

16. Describe the working principle of seismic refraction and electrical

resistivity methods.

Seismic Refraction Method

Measures the time for seismic waves to travel through subsurface layers.

Principle: Faster waves indicate denser materials (e.g., rock), while slower waves
indicate softer materials (e.g., clay).

Used to determine soil layering, bedrock depth, and fault zones.

Electrical Resistivity Method

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 Passes electric current through soil and measures resistivity.

Principle: High resistivity = dry sand/rock, low resistivity = clay or water-bearing soils.

Used for detecting groundwater, voids, and contamination.

Both methods are non-invasive and useful for rapid subsurface profiling.

17. What are the advantages and limitations of geophysical surveys?

Advantages:

✔ Non-destructive (no drilling needed).

✔ Cost-effective for large areas.
✔ Provides rapid results.
✔ Helps identify subsurface anomalies.

Limitations:

✖ Cannot provide direct soil samples.

✖ Accuracy depends on soil conditions.
✖ Requires experienced interpretation.

Geophysical surveys are best used alongside borehole drilling for accurate results.

18. Explain how geophysical methods help in detecting subsurface

anomalies.
Seismic Methods: Identify faults, fractures, and bedrock depth.

Electrical Resistivity: Detects buried utilities, groundwater, and contaminants.

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR): Locates buried structures, pipes, and voids.

These methods help prevent foundation failures, excavation hazards, and construction
delays.

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19. Explain the Plate Load Test (PLT) procedure and its applications.

Procedure:

1. A steel plate (0.3m-0.6m) is placed on the soil surface.

2. Load is gradually applied through a hydraulic jack.

3. Settlement is measured at each load increment.

4. A load-settlement curve is plotted to determine bearing capacity.

Applications:

Determines ultimate bearing capacity for shallow foundations.

Helps design pavements and embankments.

Used for compaction control in soil stabilization.

20. How is the Standard Penetration Test (SPT) conducted?

1. A split-spoon sampler is driven into the soil using a hammer of 63.5kg dropping from
75cm height.

2. The number of blows required to penetrate the last 30cm is recorded as SPT N-value.

3. The N-value is used to classify soil strength and bearing capacity.

SPT is widely used because it provides quick, field-based soil strength assessment.

This concludes Part 2 (Q11-Q20). Let me know if you want me to continue with Part 3 (Q21-
Q40)!

Cont

I'll now continue with Part 3 (Q21-Q40), ensuring detailed explanations for each question.

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Part 3: Answers to Geotechnical Investigation Questions
21. What are the limitations of the Plate Load Test (PLT)?
Although the Plate Load Test (PLT) is widely used, it has several limitations:

1. Scale Effect:

The test is conducted using a small plate (30-75 cm), whereas actual foundations are
much larger.

The bearing capacity of large foundations is often underestimated.

2. Shallow Depth Influence:

The test only evaluates soil behavior to a depth of twice the plate diameter, which
may not be sufficient for deep foundations.

3. Time Constraints:

The test is completed within a short time (a few hours), whereas actual structures
experience long-term loading.

Settlement measured in the test may not represent long-term consolidation

settlement.

4. Water Table Effects:

If groundwater is present, it can alter soil strength, affecting test results.

5. Soil Type Dependency:

In cohesionless soils, settlement depends on foundation size, making extrapolation

difficult.

In clayey soils, the test may not capture the effects of consolidation.

22. How do you interpret SPT N-values for different soil types?
The Standard Penetration Test (SPT) provides an N-value, which indicates soil resistance.

1. Interpretation for Cohesionless Soils (Sands & Gravels)

N-Value Soil Density Relative Density (%) Bearing Capacity

0-4 Very Loose < 15 Very Low

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 N-Value Soil Density Relative Density (%) Bearing Capacity

5 - 10 Loose 15 - 35 Low

11 - 30 Medium Dense 35 - 65 Moderate

31 - 50 Dense 65 - 85 High

> 50 Very Dense > 85 Very High

2. Interpretation for Cohesive Soils (Clays & Silts)

N-Value Consistency Undrained Shear Strength (kPa)

0-2 Very Soft < 25

3-4 Soft 25 - 50

5-8 Medium 50 - 100

9 - 15 Stiff 100 - 200

16 - 30 Very Stiff 200 - 400

> 30 Hard > 400

Corrections for Overburden Pressure and Dilatancy Effects

In deep boreholes, overburden pressure correction is applied.

In dense sands, dilatancy correction is applied to avoid overestimation of strength.

23. What information is recorded in a borehole log?

A borehole log contains detailed observations from drilling, including:

1. Borehole Identification

Borehole number, location, and depth.

2. Soil and Rock Description

Soil type, color, moisture content, and consistency.

Rock type, fractures, weathering, hardness.

3. Sampling Information

Depth of samples, type of sampler used.

Recovery percentage (RQD, TCR, SCR).

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 4. Groundwater Level Observations

Water table depth during drilling and after 24 hours.

5. SPT and Other Field Test Results

N-values, permeability test results.

6. Drilling Method and Equipment Used

Type of drilling rig, casing details.

7. Additional Remarks

Any unusual conditions encountered, such as voids or contamination.

A well-maintained borehole log helps engineers in foundation design and risk assessment.

24. Explain the significance of Rock Quality Designation (RQD) in

geotechnical investigations.
RQD is a measure of rock mass quality based on core recovery. It is expressed as:

∑ (length of core pieces > 10 cm)

RQD = × 100
Total core run length
​

RQD Classification:

RQD (%) Rock Quality

0 - 25 Very Poor

25 - 50 Poor

50 - 75 Fair

75 - 90 Good

90 - 100 Excellent

Importance:

Low RQD (<50%) indicates highly fractured or weak rock, requiring stabilization.

High RQD (>75%) suggests strong, stable rock, suitable for foundation support.

Used in Rock Mass Rating (RMR) and tunnel design.

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25. Define and compare Solid Core Recovery (SCR), Total Core Recovery
(TCR), and Core Loss (CL).
Parameter Definition

Total Core Recovery (TCR) Percentage of total core recovered, including fragments.

Solid Core Recovery (SCR) Percentage of intact (unbroken) core recovered.

Core Loss (CL) Percentage of missing core, indicating weak or fractured rock.

Formulae:

Total core recovered

TCR = × 100
Total core run length
​

Solid core recovered

SCR = × 100
Total core run length
​

CL = 100 − TCR

TCR gives overall recovery, while SCR indicates intact rock quality.

26. What are the different types of soil samplers? Explain their uses.

1. Disturbed Samplers:

Split Spoon Sampler: Used in SPT for soil strength evaluation.

Bulk Sampler: Used for grain size and classification tests.

2. Undisturbed Samplers:

Shelby Tube Sampler: Used for cohesive soils, preserves natural structure.

Piston Sampler: Used for soft clays, prevents sample disturbance.

Undisturbed samplers are essential for shear strength, permeability, and consolidation
tests.

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27. What precautions should be taken to preserve and transport
undisturbed soil samples?
Labeling: Borehole number, depth, date.

Sealing: Use wax, foil, or plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss.

Shock Protection: Store in cushioned boxes to avoid vibration damage.

Temperature Control: Avoid freezing or excessive heating.

Orientation: Maintain sample’s natural orientation.

Proper handling ensures reliable laboratory test results.

28. How does sample disturbance affect geotechnical testing results?

Disturbed samples lead to:

Incorrect strength measurements (shear, compressibility).

Altered permeability values (cracks may develop).

Loss of natural structure, affecting consolidation behavior.

To minimize disturbance, Shelby tubes and piston samplers are preferred over split-spoon
samplers.

29. Compare disturbed and undisturbed soil sampling techniques.

Type Definition Examples Used For

Disturbed Soil structure is Split Spoon, Bulk Classification, Grain size,

altered Sampling Atterberg Limits

Undisturbed Soil structure is Shelby Tube, Piston Shear Strength, Consolidation,

preserved Sampler Permeability

Undisturbed samples provide more accurate geotechnical properties.

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30. What factors influence the determination of borehole depth in
site investigations?
1. Foundation Type: Shallow or deep foundation.

2. Load Distribution: Heavier loads require deeper boreholes.

3. Soil Stratification: Drilling continues until stable soil/rock is found.

4. Groundwater Table: Boreholes extend below water table for dewatering analysis.

5. Seismic Considerations: In earthquake-prone areas, liquefaction depth is studied.

Minimum depth: 1.5 times foundation width or up to bedrock.

This completes Part 3 (Q21-Q30). Do you want me to continue with the remaining Q31-Q40?

Yes

Now, I'll complete the remaining Q31-Q40 with detailed explanations.

Part 4: Answers to Geotechnical Investigation Questions

(Q31-Q40)
31. How is borehole spacing decided for different types of structures?
Borehole spacing depends on the type of structure, soil variability, and project requirements.

Recommended Borehole Spacing:

Structure Type Borehole Spacing

Buildings 15 - 30 m

Bridges (at piers and abutments) 20 - 50 m

Roads and Highways 200 - 500 m

Dams and Large Infrastructure 50 - 100 m

Underground Structures (Tunnels, Pipelines) 10 - 30 m

24/29
If soil conditions are highly variable, closer borehole spacing is required to obtain more
accurate subsurface information.

32. Explain the layout considerations for boreholes in large

construction projects.
When planning borehole layout, engineers consider:

1. Uniform Coverage: Boreholes should be evenly distributed to capture subsurface

variations.

2. Critical Areas: Boreholes must be located at foundation points, load-bearing zones,

and areas of potential instability (e.g., slopes).

3. Depth Variability: Some boreholes should be drilled deeper to identify bedrock and
groundwater levels.

4. Soil Variability: In regions with heterogeneous soil, more boreholes are needed.

5. Accessibility: Borehole locations should not obstruct construction activities.

For high-rise buildings, boreholes are drilled at each column foundation location to assess
soil bearing capacity.

33. Explain the difference between PLT and SPT with applications.
Feature Plate Load Test (PLT) Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

Purpose Measures bearing capacity & Measures soil strength & density
settlement

Method Load applied on a steel plate Driving a split-spoon sampler into soil

Measured Load-Settlement Curve SPT N-value

Value

Best for Shallow foundations All soil types (esp. granular soils)

Limitation Affected by plate size and time Results require corrections

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 Feature Plate Load Test (PLT) Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

Application Road & foundation design Foundation design & liquefaction

analysis

PLT is mainly used for shallow foundations, while SPT is used for general soil investigation.

34. Discuss the importance of RQD, SCR, and TCR in drilling.

Parameter Importance in Drilling

Rock Quality Designation Determines rock mass quality for tunnels, slopes, and
(RQD) foundations.

Solid Core Recovery (SCR) Indicates how much of the core is intact, useful for rock
mechanics.

Total Core Recovery (TCR) Measures total rock recovery, useful for determining weak zones.

Low RQD (<50%) indicates weak or fractured rock requiring stabilization.

High RQD (>75%) suggests good-quality rock for foundations.

SCR and TCR help in geotechnical decision-making for excavation and stability.

35. Explain different soil sampling techniques and their applications.

1. Disturbed Sampling Techniques:

Used for classification and index tests (grain size, plasticity, compaction).

Bulk Sampling: Large soil volume collected for tests.

Split Spoon Sampler (SPT): Used in standard penetration tests.

2. Undisturbed Sampling Techniques:

Used for strength, compressibility, and permeability tests.

Shelby Tube Sampler: Best for soft clay and silt.

Piston Sampler: Used in sensitive soils (prevents sample disturbance).

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Proper sampling techniques ensure reliable engineering property evaluation.

36. What factors influence the selection of borehole drilling methods?

1. Soil and Rock Type:

Soft soil → Auger boring, wash boring.

Dense soil & rock → Percussion or rotary drilling.

2. Depth of Investigation:

Shallow (<10m): Hand auger, wash boring.

Deep (>50m): Rotary drilling, diamond core drilling.

3. Sample Requirements:

Disturbed samples: SPT, wash boring.

Undisturbed samples: Shelby tube, piston sampler.

4. Groundwater Table:

If high groundwater, rotary drilling with mud circulation is preferred.

5. Project Budget & Time Constraints:

Faster methods like power augers are used for cost efficiency.

37. Compare disturbed and undisturbed sampling techniques.

Feature Disturbed Sampling Undisturbed Sampling

Purpose Soil classification Strength & settlement analysis

Sample Integrity Altered Natural structure preserved

Examples SPT, Bulk Sampling Shelby Tube, Piston Sampler

Used for Grain size, Atterberg limits Consolidation, permeability, triaxial tests

Undisturbed sampling is crucial for projects involving compressible or weak soils.

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38. Explain the importance of groundwater observation in site
investigation.
1. Foundation Stability:

High groundwater levels reduce bearing capacity.

Risk of uplift pressure in basements.

2. Excavation and Construction Challenges:

Water seepage into excavations can lead to failure.

Requires dewatering systems.

3. Soil Strength & Liquefaction:

Loose sand with high water content → prone to liquefaction during earthquakes.

4. Drainage & Environmental Impact:

Groundwater flow affects site drainage and pollution control.

Methods:

Observation wells (manual measurement).

Piezometers (automated monitoring).

39. Describe sample transportation and storage methods to maintain

sample integrity.
1. Disturbed Samples:

Stored in plastic bags or jars to prevent moisture loss.

Labeled with borehole number and depth.

2. Undisturbed Samples:

Wrapped in wax and foil to prevent moisture changes.

Stored in sealed containers and shock-proof boxes.

Handled carefully to maintain natural orientation.

Proper sample preservation ensures reliable geotechnical test results.

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40. Explain how borehole logs help in engineering decision-making.
1. Soil & Rock Stratigraphy:

Helps in foundation selection (shallow vs deep).

2. Bearing Capacity & Strength:

SPT, RQD, and core recovery values guide structural design.

3. Groundwater Conditions:

Identifies water table depth for excavation and dewatering plans.

4. Geotechnical Hazards:

Detects collapsible soils, expansive clays, and liquefaction-prone zones.

5. Excavation Planning:

Determines stability of slopes and retaining wall requirements.

A detailed borehole log is essential for safe and cost-effective construction.

Final Summary
You've now covered all 40 questions with detailed explanations. This will ensure strong
preparation for your midterm exam.

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✅ Condensed revision notes?
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