Geotechnical testing is a critical phase in the field of civil engineering that involves testing the physical properties of soil and rock. This assessment is crucial to the planning, design, and construction of infrastructural projects such as buildings, bridges, highways, dams, and tunnels.

The primary purpose of geotechnical testing is to determine the suitability of the site for construction. The tests provide valuable insights into the soil’s physical and mechanical properties, including its type, strength, density, permeability, porosity, and compaction, amongst others. Understanding these characteristics helps engineers to predict the soil’s behaviour under different environmental conditions and loads, and enables them to design the structure’s foundation effectively and safely.

There are several benefits of geotechnical testing. Firstly, it identifies potential issues like soil instability, susceptibility to erosion, and groundwater problems, which could jeopardise the construction project or the structure’s longevity. Secondly, it guides the choice of the appropriate construction method and materials to be used. Lastly, it aids in cost-saving by mitigating the risk of structural failure that could lead to expensive corrective actions.

Geotechnical testing should ideally be done before the commencement of a construction project, during the site selection and preparatory stages. This ensures that any potential geotechnical risks are identified and addressed well in advance.

Below is the list of the most common cement tests that we undertake for our clients. All our tests are undertaken in accordance with either the British Standard of ASTM:

 

  1. Particle Size Analysis: Determines the distribution of particle sizes in a soil sample.
  2. Atterberg Limits Test: Assesses the critical water content of a soil at various states, such as shrinkage, plastic, and liquid limits.
  3. Compaction Test: Measures the effects of compaction on the soil’s density and moisture content.
  4. Permeability Test: Evaluates the ability of water to flow through soil.
  5. Shear Strength Test: Determines the maximum shear stress that a soil can resist before failing.
  6. Unconfined Compression Test: Estimates the compressive strength and deformation characteristics of soil.
  7. Consolidation Test: Assesses the soil’s compressibility and the rate at which water is squeezed out under load over time.
  8. California Bearing Ratio (CBR) Test: Estimates the bearing capacity of the soil under road or pavement subgrades.
  9. Direct Shear Test: Measures the shear strength properties of the soil.
  10. Triaxial Compression Test: Evaluates the mechanical properties of the soil under controlled confining and axial stress conditions.

Please contact us for further details