Geotechnical engineering is a part and branch of civil engineering focusing on the conditions and engineering properties of earth materials. It entails various elements of engineering, physics, and geology to assess whether the site has been deemed suitable for construction.
It would evaluate the sites developed earlier to assist in reducing the various potential dangers that could affect the longevity of the present structure. The evaluation would also assist in the prevention of any kind of harm incurring to the people living within or near the area.
Reasons for geotechnical engineering evaluation
The engineering experts of geotechnique would use various principles of rock and soil mechanics for the below-mentioned reasons.
- Examining the subsurface conditions and materials
- Monitoring the conditions, foundation, and earthwork of the site regularly
- Designing site foundations and earthworks
- Assessing the risk prevalent in the site conditions
- Evaluating the stability of the natural appearance of the manmade slopes
- Determining the relevant physical, mechanical, and chemical attributes of the materials
Geotechnical engineering solutions have been applied to civil design projects. However, it would not be limited to it, as this engineering is also used by various industries inclusive of resource development industries, military, and industries entailing construction into or on the ground.
A standard geotechnical engineering project would initiate normally with reviewing the proposed design elements. It would cater to you with an idea about the site development needs. Henceforth, the engineers would begin with site investigation. It would be inclusive of subsurface exploration focused on determining the properties of rock and soil above and below the site.
How essential is geotechnical evaluation of soil
Geotechnical evaluations should be an integral aspect of any site assessment. This cost-effective method would assist in reducing the prospective liabilities usually associated with various kinds of site conditions. Numerous government regulatory agencies would consider requiring geotechnical evaluations for all kinds of construction projects. Performing comprehensive geotechnical evaluations of various project sites could save several companies precious time and money.
It would assist in providing the design team and geotechnical engineer’s adequate information, limits to the design, and different planning stages of a particular project. These companies could avoid unessential expenses that might be incurred due to sudden changes in the subsurface conditions with extensive and quality geotechnical evaluation.
How much time does it take to report geotechnical evaluations?
It would vary immensely based on every project. Aspects inclusive of scope and size could affect the time taken to file the geotechnical report. The geotechnical engineers would take considerable time to finish the report due to series of lab testing and field explorations.
