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Geotechnical investigation methods for site characterization

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Geotechnical investigation methods for site characterization

Uploaded by

Ali
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Geotechnical

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

• Standard Penetration Test


(SPT):
Determines soil resistance using a
split-spoon sampler. (Das, 2002, p.
104)
 Cone Penetration Test (CPT):
Measures soil properties by
penetrating a cone into the
ground. (Robertson &
Campanella, 1983, p. 54)
Geophysical Methods

 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)

• Environmental and Legal Constraints


• Environmental regulations, contamination concerns, and land use restrictions may limit investigation
activities.(ISO 14688-1 (2017) - Geotechnical Investigation and Testing.)
Case Studies

 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)

• Sustainable and Green Geotechnics


• Emphasis on sustainable practices such as using recycled materials and minimizing
environmental impact.

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