Subsurface Exploration

The process of identifying the layers of deposits that underlie a proposed structure and their physical characteristics. A subsurface exploration program is conducted to make designers aware
of the site characteristics and properties needed for design and construction.

Purpose To obtain information that will aid geotechnical engineers in: Selecting the type and depth of foundation Load bearing capacity evaluation of the foundation Estimating the probable settlement of a structure Determining potential problems regarding foundation Location of the water table

STEPS IN SUBSURFACE EXPLORATION PROGRAM Collection of Preliminary Information For: Buildings column loads and their spacing local building code and basement requirements Bridges span length loading on piers and abutments Review existing subsurface information. Possible sources of information include: a. Previous geotechnical reports b. Prior construction and records of structural performance problems at the site c. U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) maps, reports, publications, and Iowa Geological Survey website d. State geological survey maps, reports, and publications e. Aerial photographs f. State, city, and county road maps g. Local university libraries h. Public libraries

FIELD RECONNAISANCE Engineers should always make a visual inspection of the site to obtain information about these features: General topography of the site and possible existence of drainage ditches, abandoned dumps of debris or other materials. Soil stratification from deep cuts. Type of vegetation at the site High water marks on nearby buildings and bridge abutments Groundwater levels Types of construction nearby and existence of any cracks in walls or other problems. SITE INVESTIGATION The site investigation phase consist of: PLANNING MAKING TEST BOREHOLES COLLECTING SOIL SAMPLES

Determining the approximate minimum depth of boring for foundations

Depth > 2B (Strength concern) Depth D1 at (v / q) < 0.1 Depth D2 at (v / v0) < 0.05 Minimum Depth = min(D1, D2) In deep excavations, depth > 1.5 depth of excavation

Approximate depths of borings for buildings with a width of 30m No. of stories 1 2 3 4 5 Boring depth (m) 3.5 6 10 16 24

The exploration cost generally should be 0.1% to 0.5% of the cost of the structure