Knowing the subsurface conditions is essential to planning and constructing building and infrastructure projects like foundations, roads, bridges, excavation pits, and land reclamation. One of the geophysical methods that can be used is GPR, or Ground Penetrating Radar, which uses radar pulses to image the subsurface for geotechnical investigations.
Geotechnical investigation refers to using various methods to identify soil and rock properties below the surface in a proposed installation site. This helps engineers decide the tools to dig through the area most economically.
In geotechnical investigations, the following tasks are generally conducted:
- Identification of soil profile and groundwater status in the proposed site.
- Recommendations for foundation design and construction of building structures and underground utilities.
- Recommendations for constructing parking spaces and driveways for light and heavy-duty asphalt paving.
- Suggestions for site preparation and surface drainage
Process Involved in Geotechnical Investigations
Since each construction project’s requirements and land are unique, each type of geotechnical investigation may also vary. However, there are essential steps in carrying them out that remain the same.
Knowledge of the Construction Site
One of the crucial steps in geotechnical investigation is understanding the site’s geology. Gaining knowledge of the region’s geography can be done through geologic mapping, photogrammetry, or other geophysical methods to assess the physical conditions of the soil. Geotechnical investigation helps determine the soil’s limits and what needs to be done to address any issues.
Preliminary Assessment of the Site
After assessing the physical conditions of the soil, the engineers will coordinate with the client to see what type of construction they require. This is typically where the engineers use borings or drillings for soil samples. Depending on the client’s construction needs, these samples might also get tested in laboratories. Besides this, the engineers will also visually assess the soil for rock and water.
Detailed Assessment for Construction
There are also some instances wherein a more detailed assessment is needed. This depends on the type of construction a client wants, typically conducted through geophysical investigations and scientific studies. These methods are beneficial for understanding any underground anomalies or utilities.
For more details about geotechnical investigations and other professional engineering services to the construction and urban development industries, visit Durkin through their official website.
References:
https://mrengineering.ca/what-is-a-geotechnical-investigation-and-how-to-conduct-it/
https://g3soilworks.com/2022/05/06/what-is-the-purpose-of-geotechnical-site-investigation/
https://retipster.com/terms/geotechnical-investigation/
