Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
3
Measurement of Properties
3.1
Introduction
3.1.1
Objectives
The properties of geologic materials are measured to provide the basis for:
1.
Identification and classification (see
Chapter 5).
2.
Correlations between properties including measurements made during other
investigations in similar materials.
3.
Engineering analysis and evaluations.
3.1.2
Geotechnical Properties
Basic Properties
Basic properties include the fundamental characteristics of the materials and provide a
basis for identification and correlations. Some are used in engineering calculations.
Index Properties
Index properties define certain physical characteristics used basically for classifications,
and also for correlations with engineering properties.
Hydraulic Properties
Hydraulic properties, expressed in terms of permeability, are engineering properties. They
concern the flow of fluids through geologic media.
Mechanical Properties
Rupture strength and deformation characteristics are mechanical properties. They are also
engineering properties, and are grouped as static or dynamic.
Correlations
Measurements of hydraulic and mechanical properties, which provide the basis for all engi-
neering analyses, are often costly or difficult to obtain with reliable accuracy. Correlations
based on basic or index properties, with data obtained from other investigations in which
