Geotechnical Survey

Geotechnical survey is an engineering geological study that determines the physical and mechanical properties of soil and subgrade. Although not a direct surveying task, geotechnical investigation is closely related to geodesy and topographic surveying.

Geotechnical survey objectives:

• Determine soil layer composition and thickness
• Evaluate soil bearing capacity
• Determine groundwater level
• Assess foundation solution suitability
• Identify construction risks

Investigation methods:

• Boreholes - soil sample acquisition for analysis
• Cone penetration test (CPT) - soil resistance measurements
• Dynamic probing - rapid soil investigation
• Test pit excavation - visual soil inspection
• Laboratory analyses - detailed soil tests

Connection with surveying:

• Borehole positioning - coordinate determination with GNSS
• Borehole elevations - connection to height system
• Topographic plan - displaying borehole locations
• Cross-sections - soil layer visualization

Geotechnical report contains:

• General territory characteristics
• Borehole location plan
• Soil profiles and descriptions
• Laboratory test results
• Conclusions and recommendations

When is geotechnical survey needed?

• Before any building construction
• For road and bridge design
• For underground structure planning
• In areas with complex soil conditions
• For building reconstruction with additional loads

Investigation scope:

Number and depth of boreholes depends on:

• Building size and significance
• Soil complexity level
• Building code requirements
• Historical data about the territory

Quality geotechnical investigation prevents foundation problems and ensures sustainable building operation.