Geotechnical investigation methods for site characterization
Geotechnical investigation methods for site characterization
investigation methods
for site characterization
By
Aizaz Ullah (122)
Rauf Dad(111)
Introduction
Definition:
Geotechnical investigation involves
the systematic study of subsurface
conditions to determine soil and rock
properties for engineering projects.
(Das, 2002, p. 12)
Importance:
Accurate site characterization
ensures safe and cost-
effective designs, minimizing
risks such as settlement and
failure. (Bowles, 1996, p. 34)
Objectives of Geotechnical
Investigation
To determine soil and rock properties
relevant to construction. (Das, 2002,
p. 45)
To identify potential geohazards like
liquefaction, slope instability, or
groundwater issues. (Terzaghi et al.,
1996, p. 78)
To provide data for designing
foundations, retaining walls, and other
structures.
• To determine the suitability of on-site
materials for use in construction, such
as backfill or road subgrade material.
Reference: Lambe, T.W., & Whitman,
R.V. (1969). Soil Mechanics.
Planning a Geotechnical Investigation
Preliminary Studies:
Review existing data, maps, and site history. (Holtz et al.,
1981, p. 23)
Selection of Methods:
Match investigation methods to project needs and
complexity. (Das, 2002, p. 56)
Field Reconnaissance:
Inspect the site visually to identify key features and
potential issues.
• Assess Groundwater Conditions
Include piezometers or observation wells to monitor
groundwater levels and flow.
Reference: Das, B.M. (2002). Principles of Geotechnical
Engineering.
Field Methods Overview
Site Reconnaissance:
Visual survey of site conditions, vegetation, and surface
features. (Das, 2002, p. 67)
Drilling and Sampling:
Obtain soil/rock samples for analysis using boreholes
and test pits. (ASTM D1586)
• Geophysical Methods
Assess subsurface conditions without disturbing the soil
(Telford, W.M., Geldart, L.P., & Sheriff, R.E. (1990).
Applied Geophysics.)
Drilling Methods
Auger Drilling:
Used for shallow investigations in soft
soils. (Das, 2002, p. 72)
Rotary Drilling:
Suitable for deep explorations in rock
or hard soils. (Bowles, 1996, p. 112)
Core Drilling:
Provides intact rock samples for
laboratory testing.
Sampling Techniques
Disturbed Sampling:
Collects soil without
maintaining its natural
structure, used for classification
tests. (Das, 2002, p. 81)
Undisturbed Sampling:
Preserves soil's original
structure, critical for strength
and consolidation tests.
(Terzaghi et al., 1996, p. 96)
In-Situ Testing
Seismic Refraction:
Analyzes the velocity of
seismic waves through
subsurface layers. (Bowles,
1996, p. 145)
Electrical Resistivity:
Maps subsurface conditions by
measuring soil's resistance to
electrical flow. (Das, 2002, p.
128)
Laboratory Testing
Classification Tests:
Grain size distribution and
Atterberg limits to classify
soil types. (ASTM D2487)
Strength Tests:
Triaxial compression and
direct shear tests to assess
soil stability. (Das, 2002, p.
200)
Reporting and Analysis
Data Interpretation:
Combine field and lab results to
create a geotechnical model.
(Das, 2002, p. 223)
Engineering
Recommendations:
Provide safe and cost-effective
solutions based on findings.
(Holtz et al., 1981, p. 145)
Challenges in Geotechnical Investigations
Site Accessibility:
Remote or difficult terrains can limit testing. (Bowles, 1996, p. 178)
Subsurface Variability:
Natural heterogeneity of soils complicates analysis. (Das, 2002, p. 310)
• Groundwater Challenges
High groundwater levels, fluctuating water tables, and seepage can complicate field investigations .
(Freeze, R.A., & Cherry, J.A. (1979). Groundwater)
Foundation Failure:
Example of a project where
inadequate testing led to
settlement issues. (Das, 2002, p.
341)
Successful Dam Construction:
Highlight of effective
geotechnical investigation
ensuring stability. (Holtz et al.,
1981, p. 189)
Future Trends
Instrumentation:
Advances in sensors for real-time monitoring of soil behavior. (Das, 2002, p. 377)
AI in Geotechnics:
Machine learning applications for data interpretation and predictive modeling. (Recent journal
articles)