Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
2
Exploration
2.1
Introduction
2.1.1
Objectives
The general objective of an exploration program is to identify all of the significant features
of the geologic environment that may impact on the proposed construction. Specific objec-
tives are to:
1.
Define the lateral distribution and thickness of soil and rock strata within the
zone of influence of the proposed construction.
2.
Define groundwater conditions considering seasonal changes and the effects of
construction or development extraction.
3.
Identify geologic hazards, such as unstable slopes, faults, ground subsidence and
collapse, floodplains, regional seismicity, and lahars.
4.
Procure samples of geologic materials for the identification, classification, and
measurement of engineering properties.
5.
Perform
in situ
testing to measure the engineering properties of the geologic
materials (
Chapter 3).
2.1.2
Methodology
Three general categories subdivide exploration methodology:
1.
Surface mapping of geologic conditions
(
Section 2.2)
,
which requires review of
reports and publications, interpretation of topographic and geographic maps,
remote-sensing imagery, and site reconnaissance
2.
Subsurface sectioning
(
Section 2.3)
,
for which data are obtained by geophysical
prospecting, test and core borings, and excavations and soundings
3.
Sampling
the geologic materials (
Section 2.4)
utilizing test and core borings and
excavations
A general summary of exploration methods and objectives is given in
Table 2.1.
2.1.3
Scope
The scope of the investigation will depend upon the size of the proposed construction
area, i.e., a building footprint, or several to hundreds of acres, or square miles, and the
