What Is Site Characterization In Civil Engineering Pdf
Site characterization is a crucial process in the successful execution and durability of various geotechnical projects, such as foundation, excavation, earth dams, embankments, seismic hazards, environmental concerns, and tunnels, as well as near and offshore structures. It involves gathering information about the site to ensure proper design, construction, and long-term performance.
What are in situ invasive site characterization methods?
In situ invasive site characterization methods are techniques used to assess the properties of waste material by physically probing into the site. Examples of such methods include the standard penetration test (SPT), cone penetration test (CPT), and dilatometer. They help to interpret the shear strength of the material and provide important information for site characterization.
What are the areas of concern in geotechnical site characterization?
According to SpringerLink, there are five areas of concern in the state of the practice in geotechnical site characterization, including the fact that most geotechnical related accidents, disasters, and failures are not considered "acts of God".
What is the most economical approach to site characterization?
The most economical approach to site characterization is to conduct it early as part of the site selection process, which can reduce the project's time and costs significantly.
What happens if you don't complete a site characterization?
Failure to complete site characterization can lead to increased risks, remediation costs, schedule delays, lawsuits, and unnecessary expenses. Eventually, a site characterization will have to be done regardless of whether one wants to do it or not.
When does BES recommend a site characterization?
BES recommends a site characterization and associated analytical testing of soil and groundwater early in the design phase to determine if the project can move forward as submitted. This step is crucial in the project evaluation process.
What are the three core components of a site characterization process?
The site characterization process consists of three core components: investigation and remediation, risk management, and human health and ecological risk assessment. This guidance manual specifically focuses on site characterization, which is a critical aspect of the investigation and remediation process.
What is an example of in situ?
An example of in situ is when measurements are taken in the same place where a phenomenon is occurring without altering the original conditions of the test, such as in fields like physics, chemistry or biology.
What is groundwater sampling for site characterization?
Groundwater sampling for site characterization is the process of collecting representative samples that accurately reflect the subsurface conditions of a site, while ensuring the integrity of the samples from collection to laboratory analysis.
Geotechnical hazard reports may include information regarding fault lines, liquefaction, landslides and mudslides, and flooding. If an area lies on a fault line, a report may be issued to the landowner. Liquefaction happens when waterlogged soil loses strength due to ground shaking. Landslides and mudslides are also potential hazards, as are floods.
What are the most common geotechnical problems found on construction sites?
Common geotechnical problems found on construction sites include slope instability and collapse due to varying soil or rock types.
What is a geotechnical report?
A geotechnical report is a document that communicates site conditions, design recommendations and construction guidelines to relevant personnel involved in transportation projects. Its main objective is to provide information on subsurface soil, rock and water conditions obtained through site investigations.
Why should a geotechnical engineer prepare a site investigation report?
A geotechnical engineer should prepare a site investigation report to provide design and construction recommendations based on the interpretation of the site investigation information. An adequate geotechnical report is important for ensuring the safety and success of the project.
What is the most important step in geotechnical design?
The most crucial step in geotechnical design is to conduct a comprehensive subsurface investigation to determine the number, depth, spacing, and character of borings needed for the project.
An ideal location for a dam site is a narrow valley with steep rock slopes while a wide plain is more suitable for an earth-fill dam.
What is the geology of a dam site?
The geology of a dam site refers to the type of rocks present at the site that can offer a safe foundation for building a dam. Igneous rocks are usually preferred, while weak sedimentary rocks like shale, poorly cemented sandstones, and limestone are generally deemed unsuitable. This information is important in civil engineering applications, such as the construction of dams.
What are the parameters needed for primary design of dams?
The parameters necessary for primary design of dams are the cohesion and angle of internal friction of the dam foundation interface/weak zones of the foundation. Shear and sliding stability evaluation must also be conducted to determine if there are existing weak planes within the foundation.
What are the factors affecting the selection of a site for a dam?
The selection of a site for a dam is affected by several factors including topography, geology, hydrology, seismicity, availability of construction materials, environmental impact, and the economic feasibility of the project.
