Geotechnical Survey and Investigations – Bird’s Eye View

by Robin Jackson Marketing Expert

Geotechnical surveys are the first step before construction of any structure and include survey of the site for obtaining information on physical properties of rock as well as soil for designing earth works as well as foundations for potential structures and also for maintenance of the structures damaged due to subsurface conditions. Other than construction geotechnical surveys are done to manage the thermal resistivity of back fill materials or soil used in oil and gas pipelines, transmission lines, solar thermal storage facilities, radio waste disposal and more.

Geotechnical Survey Parameters - The various methods used for the same include photogrammetry, geophysical methods, geologic mapping and more. The study of the soil is done by the geologist who determines the size of the construction that would be safe for that kind of soil. Soil survey holds a significant place in construction and is helpful in preventing structures from collapsing during earthquakes or otherwise. The foundation stability is based on the information regarding the bearing capacity of the soil and nature of the soil.

Benefits of Geotechnical Surveys – Based on the information received about the soil conditions the structure could be designed and the even the maintenance of the structures which are damaged could be managed effectively. The geotechnical engineers and the geologists require this data to study the physical characteristics of soil and rocks. This examination of soil includes laboratory analysis besides soil sampling and surface as well as subsurface exploration. These surveys and investigations are also called soil analysis, soil testing, soil mechanics, subsurface investigation and more. As a result of geotechnical surveys or investigations, the stability of the structure and the longevity of it have increased to quite an extent. Also, damage to foundation cracks, earthquakes and other catastrophes is reduced big time. When it is about geotechnical surveys they could be simplified ones which include only visual assessment of the site or they could be more elaborate which include computer based soil study using laboratory tests.

Tools Used for Geotechnical Investigations – These days due to innovative equipments and methods, the accuracy of the investigation is very high and the speed of carrying out such surveys or investigations is also very fast. For subsurface imaging instruments like penetrating radar is used and it is a non destructive method of investigation and from the subsurface structures the reflected electromagnetic radiations are used for acquisition of data for further analysis. The uses of antennas are done for receiving and transmission of signals. The function of the antenna is to emit high frequency pulses into the soil wherein the waves unlike dielectric constants strike objects and the variations that are detected in the return signal are analyzed from the data received. The similar procedure is also used for pavements, fresh water, sense matter, cracks, voids and more.

Thus, geotechnical surveys or investigations are highly useful at the initial stage of construction for design of safe and sound structures which have high stability and long life and also in maintenance of existing structures which are under damage due to the soil conditions.

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