SOIL INVESTIGATION AND

TESTING (CE-534)
ASSIGNMENT-II

Submitted to Dr. Amanullah Marri

Submitted by Happy Kumar
Qno1(a) Prepare a quotation for Geotechnical site investigation of an 8000 ft2 area for the
construction of a hostel comprising of ground plus four stories …? Please also give details of the mode
of payment, work schedule and turnaround time (TAT).

Quotation for Geotechnical Site Investigation

Project Details:

 Area: 8000 ft²

 Structure: Hostel comprising ground plus four stories

Scope of Work:

1. Geotechnical investigation to assess soil conditions and suitability for construction.

2. Subsurface exploration including soil sampling, laboratory testing, and analysis.

3. Preparation of a detailed geotechnical report outlining findings and recommendations.

Mode of Payment:

 30% advance payment upon acceptance of the quotation.

 60% payment upon completion of the fieldwork and submission of preliminary findings.

 10% payment upon submission of the final geotechnical report.

Work Schedule:

1. Mobilization: Within 5 working days of receipt of advance payment.

2. Fieldwork: Completion within 10 working days of mobilization, subject to weather conditions

and site accessibility.

3. Report Preparation: Preliminary findings within 7 working days of completing fieldwork. Final
report within 14 working days of receiving feedback on preliminary findings.

Turnaround Time (TAT):

 Mobilization: Within 5 working days

 Fieldwork: 10 working days

 Preliminary Findings: 7 working days after fieldwork completion

 Final Report: 14 working days after preliminary findings approval

Quotation Total: 130,000/=

Qno1 B Discuss various methods for the determination of bearing capacity of soil for a proposed
foundation. Give your comparative analysis of the suitability of various methods

1. Standard Penetration Test (SPT):

 Method: Involves driving a standard sampler into the ground using a hammer and recording
the number of blows required to penetrate the soil at various depths.

 Suitability: Widely used due to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and ability to provide data
for correlation with bearing capacity equations. However, it may not accurately represent
the in-situ soil conditions and may require empirical correlations for accurate bearing
capacity estimation.

2. Cone Penetration Test (CPT):

 Method: Utilizes a cone-shaped penetrometer to measure resistance to penetration as it is

pushed into the ground at a constant rate.

 Suitability: Provides continuous soil profile data, offering better insights into soil behavior.
Suitable for cohesive soils and can directly provide parameters for advanced soil strength
models. However, it may not be suitable for all soil types and may not capture certain soil
features accurately.

3. Plate Load Test:

 Method: Involves applying a known load to a steel plate placed at the foundation level and
measuring the settlement response.

 Suitability: Offers direct measurement of soil bearing capacity under actual foundation
conditions. Suitable for both cohesive and cohesionless soils. However, it can be time-
consuming and may require large-scale testing for representative results.

4. Shear Strength Parameters:

 Method: Utilizes laboratory or in-situ tests such as triaxial or direct shear tests to determine
soil shear strength parameters (e.g., cohesion and angle of internal friction), which are then
used in bearing capacity equations.

 Suitability: Provides a more mechanistic approach by directly measuring soil strength

properties. Suitable for cohesive and cohesionless soils, and can be used in conjunction with
other methods for more accurate predictions. However, it requires specialized equipment
and expertise.

5. Empirical Formulas and Charts:

 Method: Employs empirical formulas or charts based on experience and historical data to
estimate bearing capacity, often considering factors such as soil type, foundation type, and
depth.

 Suitability: Quick and easy to use, especially for preliminary assessments. However, they
may lack accuracy and may not account for site-specific conditions or soil variability.
Comparative Analysis:

 The suitability of each method depends on factors such as soil type, project requirements,
available resources, and desired level of accuracy.

 Methods like SPT and CPT are widely used for their simplicity and cost-effectiveness but may
require empirical correlations for accurate bearing capacity estimation.

 Advanced methods like plate load tests and shear strength parameter determination offer more
mechanistic approaches but may be more time-consuming and require specialized equipment.

 Empirical formulas and charts can provide quick estimates but may lack accuracy and reliability,
especially for complex soil conditions.

In conclusion, a comprehensive approach combining multiple methods, including both empirical and
mechanistic approaches, tailored to the specific project requirements and site conditions, is often the
most suitable for accurately determining the bearing capacity of soil for a proposed foundation.

Qno1C) Describe and discuss the criteria for the selection of a suitable type of foundation based on
geotechnical site investigation report and the type of proposed structure

As a geotechnical engineer, selecting the appropriate type of foundation is critical for ensuring the long-
term stability, safety, and performance of a structure. The selection process involves careful
consideration of various factors derived from the geotechnical site investigation report and the
characteristics of the proposed structure. Here are the key criteria and considerations:

1. Soil Conditions:

 Soil type, bearing capacity, and shear strength are fundamental parameters derived
from the geotechnical investigation. They dictate the choice of foundation type. For
example:

 Cohesive soils (clayey) may require deeper foundations like piles or drilled shafts
to reach suitable bearing strata.

 Cohesionless soils (sandy or gravelly) may be suitable for shallow foundations

like spread footings or mats if they have adequate bearing capacity.

2. Groundwater Conditions:

 Groundwater level and permeability influence foundation design and construction

methods. High groundwater levels may necessitate dewatering measures or the use of
waterproofing techniques for below-grade structures.

3. Load-Bearing Capacity:

 The magnitude and distribution of loads from the proposed structure must be
considered. Heavy structures or concentrated loads may require deep foundations to
distribute loads to competent strata.
 4. Settlement Considerations:

 Anticipated settlement must be within acceptable limits to ensure structural integrity

and functionality. Settlement analysis based on soil consolidation characteristics is
crucial for selecting the appropriate foundation type.

5. Environmental Factors:

 Environmental conditions such as seismic activity, frost depth, and soil erosion potential
influence foundation design. Seismically active regions may require special foundation
designs to mitigate earthquake-induced loads.

6. Accessibility and Construction Considerations:

 Accessibility to the site and construction methods influence the choice of foundation.
Restricted access or site constraints may favor certain foundation types over others.

7. Structural Requirements:

 The type, size, and configuration of the proposed structure influence foundation
selection. Tall or irregularly shaped structures may require specialized foundations to
accommodate structural loads and minimize deflection.

8. Cost and Time Constraints:

 Project budget and schedule constraints play a significant role in foundation selection.
Economical and time-efficient solutions that meet performance requirements are
prioritized.

Discussion:

 A thorough analysis of geotechnical data from the site investigation report is essential for
informed decision-making in foundation selection.

 Engineering judgment, experience, and collaboration with structural engineers and other
stakeholders are critical for evaluating options and selecting the most suitable foundation type.

 The selected foundation type should provide adequate support, minimize settlement, and
ensure stability under all anticipated loading and environmental conditions.

 Regular monitoring and quality control during construction are essential to verify that the
selected foundation performs as intended and meets design criteria.

In summary, the selection of a suitable foundation type is a complex process that requires
comprehensive evaluation of site-specific conditions, structural requirements, and project constraints. A
sound understanding of geotechnical principles and close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams are
key to achieving optimal foundation design and performance.
Qno2A) Enlist necessary information/data which is to be collected during field investigations, and
discuss the significance and used of each relevant data.

Field investigations in geotechnical engineering are crucial for collecting essential data that informs the
design and construction of foundations and other structures. Here's a list of necessary information/data
to be collected during field investigations, along with their significance and uses:

1. Soil Samples:

 Significance: Soil samples provide direct information about soil composition, properties,
and behavior.

 Uses: Laboratory testing of soil samples helps determine parameters such as grain size
distribution, moisture content, Atterberg limits, shear strength, compressibility, and
consolidation characteristics.

2. Standard Penetration Test (SPT) Data:

 Significance: SPT data indicates soil resistance to penetration and helps evaluate soil
strength and bearing capacity.

 Uses: Used to estimate bearing capacity, evaluate liquefaction potential, and assess soil
stratigraphy for foundation design.

3. Cone Penetration Test (CPT) Data:

 Significance: CPT provides continuous soil profile data, including soil resistance, pore
pressure, and soil type.

 Uses: Used for soil stratigraphy, determining soil properties, assessing liquefaction
potential, and estimating pile capacities.

4. Groundwater Level Data:

 Significance: Groundwater level affects soil properties, foundation design, and

construction methods.

 Uses: Essential for designing dewatering systems, assessing potential for soil erosion,
and determining foundation depths.

5. Geophysical Survey Data (e.g., Seismic Refraction, Electrical Resistivity):

 Significance: Geophysical surveys provide indirect information about subsurface

conditions, including soil layering and presence of anomalies.

 Uses: Used to map subsurface stratigraphy, identify bedrock depth, detect buried
utilities, and locate potential hazards.
 6. Field Shear Strength Tests (e.g., Vane Shear Test, Pocket Penetrometer):

 Significance: Field shear strength tests provide quick estimates of soil strength
parameters.

 Uses: Used for preliminary assessment of soil strength, stability analysis, and
classification of soil types.

7. Ground Settlement Monitoring Data:

 Significance: Ground settlement data helps assess the potential for soil consolidation
and foundation settlement.

 Uses: Used to predict and mitigate settlement, evaluate the effectiveness of ground
improvement measures, and monitor the performance of foundations over time.

8. Topographic Surveys and Site Layout Plans:

 Significance: Topographic surveys provide information about site contours, slopes, and
surface features.

 Uses: Used for site layout, grading plans, drainage design, and assessing surface water
runoff.

9. Environmental Data (e.g., Climate, Vegetation, Soil Erosion):

 Significance: Environmental data helps assess potential impacts on soil stability,

groundwater quality, and construction activities.

 Uses: Used for environmental impact assessments, erosion control planning, and
selecting appropriate construction methods and materials.

10. Borehole Logs and Well Logs:

 Significance: Borehole and well logs document subsurface conditions, soil types,
groundwater levels, and geological features.

 Uses: Used for geological mapping, soil stratigraphy analysis, groundwater modeling,
and correlation with laboratory test results.

Qno 2b) How bearing capacity of soil can be determined from field data (such as SPT, CPT, DCPT, Field
CBR etc.). Give correlations with references.

1. Standard Penetration Test (SPT):

 The bearing capacity of soil can be estimated using the N-value obtained from the SPT test. Several
empirical correlations exist, with one of the widely used being the Meyerhof's Bearing Capacity
equation: 𝑞ult= 𝑐𝑁𝑐+𝛾𝐷𝑁𝑁𝑞+0.5𝛾𝐵𝑁𝛾

Reference: Meyerhof, G. G. (1956). "Penetration Tests and Bearing Capacity of Cohesive Soils."
 2. Cone Penetration Test (CPT):

 The cone resistance (𝑞𝑐qc) obtained from the CPT can be used to estimate bearing capacity. One of
the widely used correlations is the Schmertmann's method: 𝑞ult=𝑐𝑁𝑐+𝑞𝑐

Reference: Schmertmann, J. H. (1978). "Guidelines for Cone Penetration Test (CPT) Studies."

3. Dynamic Cone Penetration Test (DCPT):

 The dynamic penetration resistance (𝐷𝐶𝑃DCP) obtained from the DCPT can be used to estimate the
bearing capacity. One empirical correlation is: 𝑞ult=𝑘×DCP

Reference: ASTM D6951 - 03(2018), "Standard Test Method for Use of the Dynamic Cone Penetrometer
in Shallow Pavement Applications."

4. Field California Bearing Ratio (CBR):

 CBR values obtained from the field CBR test can be correlated with bearing capacity. One empirical
correlation for cohesive soils is: 𝑞ult=𝐶𝐵𝑅×Pressure for 2.5

Reference: AASHTO T 193, "Standard Method of Test for The California Bearing Ratio."

Qno2c) How the properties of soil can be determined from laboratory investigations

Laboratory investigations play a crucial role in determining various properties of soil, providing essential
data for geotechnical design and analysis. Here are some common laboratory tests used to determine
soil properties:

1. Grain Size Analysis (Sieve Analysis and Hydrometer Analysis):

 Method: Involves separating soil particles into different size fractions using sieves or
sedimentation techniques.

 Properties Determined: Grain size distribution, including percentages of gravel, sand,

silt, and clay fractions.

 Significance: Helps classify soil according to standard classification systems (e.g., Unified
Soil Classification System) and assess its engineering behavior.

2. Atterberg Limits Tests (Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and Shrinkage Limit):

 Method: Determines the water content at which soil transitions from one state to
another using specific test procedures.

 Properties Determined: Liquid limit, plastic limit, and shrinkage limit.

 Significance: Provides information on soil consistency, plasticity, and compressibility,

essential for foundation design and construction.
3. Moisture Content Tests:

 Method: Measures the moisture content of soil samples before and after drying in an
oven.

 Properties Determined: Moisture content expressed as a percentage of the dry weight

of soil.

 Significance: Essential for calculating other soil properties and adjusting test results to a
consistent moisture condition.

4. Compaction Tests (Standard Proctor and Modified Proctor Tests):

 Method: Compacts soil samples in standard or modified Proctor molds using a specified
energy input.

 Properties Determined: Maximum dry unit weight and optimum moisture content.

 Significance: Evaluates soil compaction characteristics for earthwork construction and

determines the moisture content required for maximum compaction.

5. Direct Shear Test:

 Method: Applies shear stress to soil samples along a defined plane until failure occurs.

 Properties Determined: Shear strength parameters, including cohesion and angle of

internal friction.

 Significance: Provides data for analyzing slope stability, bearing capacity, and design of
retaining structures.

6. Triaxial Compression Test:

 Method: Applies confining pressure to cylindrical soil samples while subjecting them to
axial compression.

 Properties Determined: Shear strength parameters under various stress conditions

(e.g., drained, undrained, consolidated, unconsolidated).

 Significance: Essential for advanced soil mechanics analyses, including assessment of

soil behavior under different loading and drainage conditions.

7. Consolidation Test:

 Method: Applies incremental loads to soil samples confined in oedometers to measure

settlement over time.

 Properties Determined: Compression index, recompression index, and coefficient of

consolidation.

 Significance: Evaluates soil compressibility, settlement characteristics, and estimates

consolidation settlement for foundation design.
 8. Permeability Test (Constant Head and Falling Head Tests):

 Method: Measures the rate of flow of water through soil samples under controlled
hydraulic gradients.

 Properties Determined: Coefficient of permeability (hydraulic conductivity).

 Significance: Assess soil drainage characteristics, seepage potential, and suitability for
drainage systems.

These laboratory tests provide critical information on soil properties essential for geotechnical
engineering analyses and design. Interpretation of laboratory test results requires consideration of soil
variability, testing standards, and engineering judgment to ensure accurate characterization of soil
behavior.

Qno3) How the bearing capacity of soil can be determined from laboratory investigations?

The bearing capacity of soil can be determined from laboratory investigations using several methods,
each focusing on different aspects of soil behavior. Here are the common laboratory tests used to
determine soil bearing capacity:

1. Unconfined Compression Test:

 Method: Applies axial load to a cylindrical soil sample until failure occurs.

 Significance: Provides an indication of the soil's unconfined compressive strength, which

is useful for estimating bearing capacity under shallow foundations.

 Uses: Particularly suitable for cohesive soils such as clays.

2. Triaxial Compression Test:

 Method: Applies axial load and lateral pressure to a cylindrical soil sample while
measuring deformation and stress.

 Significance: Allows testing of soil under various stress conditions, including drained and
undrained conditions, providing more comprehensive data on soil strength and
behavior.

 Uses: Provides parameters for estimating bearing capacity under different foundation
types and loading conditions.

3. Direct Shear Test:

 Method: Applies shear stress to soil samples along a defined plane until failure occurs.

 Significance: Provides shear strength parameters, such as cohesion and angle of internal
friction, which are essential for calculating bearing capacity under shallow and deep
foundations.

 Uses: Suitable for both cohesive and cohesionless soils.

4. Consolidation Test:
  Method: Applies incremental loads to soil samples confined in oedometers to measure
settlement over time.

 Significance: Provides data on soil compressibility and consolidation behavior, which are
crucial for estimating settlement and bearing capacity under different foundation types.

 Uses: Helps assess the long-term performance and stability of foundations.

5. Plate Load Test:

 Method: Applies a known load to a steel plate placed at the foundation level while
measuring settlement response.

 Significance: Directly simulates foundation loading conditions, providing a more

accurate assessment of bearing capacity under actual field conditions.

 Uses: Particularly useful for verifying bearing capacity estimates derived from other
laboratory tests and for quality control during construction.

6. California Bearing Ratio (CBR) Test:

 Method: Measures the resistance of soil to penetration of a standard piston at various

moisture conditions.

 Significance: Provides an indication of soil strength and bearing capacity, particularly for
subgrade soils.

 Uses: Commonly used for designing pavement structures and assessing the suitability of
subgrade soils for foundation support.

These laboratory tests provide essential data for estimating the bearing capacity of soil under different
foundation types, loading conditions, and soil conditions. Interpretation of test results requires
consideration of factors such as soil type, moisture content, stress conditions, and project-specific
requirements to ensure accurate and reliable predictions of bearing capacity.

QNo4a) Enlist reasons of the deterioration of groundwater quality and depletion of groundwater

Groundwater quality deterioration and depletion are significant concerns globally due to various natural
and anthropogenic factors. Here are the reasons for the deterioration of groundwater quality and
depletion of groundwater:

1. Over-Extraction and Overuse:

 Excessive pumping of groundwater for agricultural, industrial, and domestic purposes

can lead to groundwater depletion, lowering the water table and reducing aquifer
storage capacity.

2. Contamination from Point Sources:

 Industrial discharges, leaking underground storage tanks, and improper disposal of

hazardous waste can introduce pollutants such as heavy metals, chemicals, and
petroleum products into groundwater, causing contamination.
 3. Contamination from Non-Point Sources:

 Runoff from urban areas, agricultural fields, and landfills can carry pollutants such as
fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and sediment into groundwater, contributing to
contamination.

4. Land Use Changes and Urbanization:

 Urbanization, deforestation, and changes in land use alter surface runoff patterns and
increase the risk of pollutants reaching groundwater through infiltration, runoff, and
leaching from impervious surfaces and contaminated soils.

5. Saltwater Intrusion:

 Excessive pumping of groundwater near coastal areas can induce saltwater intrusion,
where saline water infiltrates freshwater aquifers, rendering the groundwater
unsuitable for drinking and agricultural use.

6. Natural Geological Processes:

 Naturally occurring minerals and geological formations can influence groundwater

quality. For example, geogenic arsenic and fluoride contamination are common in some
regions due to natural geological sources.

7. Climate Change:

 Changes in precipitation patterns, increased temperatures, and altered hydrological

cycles associated with climate change can affect groundwater recharge rates,
groundwater levels, and water quality.

8. Groundwater Mining:

 Extraction of groundwater at rates faster than natural recharge processes, often

referred to as groundwater mining, can lead to long-term depletion of aquifers and
exacerbate water scarcity issues.

9. Lack of Regulation and Enforcement:

 Inadequate regulation, monitoring, and enforcement of groundwater management

practices can contribute to groundwater overuse, contamination, and depletion.

10. Population Growth and Urbanization:

 Rapid population growth and urban expansion increase demand for water resources,
leading to increased groundwater extraction and higher risks of contamination from
anthropogenic activities.

Addressing these challenges requires integrated groundwater management strategies, including

sustainable water use practices, pollution prevention measures, groundwater recharge initiatives,
improved monitoring and regulation, and public awareness and education campaigns.
Qno4 B) Enlist field tests for the following purposes and the relevant soil parameters

1. Bearing Capacity Analysis:

 Standard Penetration Test (SPT):

 Relevant Soil Parameters: SPT blow count (N-value), which correlates with soil
strength and relative density.

 Cone Penetration Test (CPT):

 Relevant Soil Parameters: Cone resistance (q_c), sleeve friction (f_s), and pore
water pressure (u2) which provide information on soil strength, stiffness, and
consolidation characteristics.

 Plate Load Test:

 Relevant Soil Parameters: Measured settlement under a known load, used to

assess the bearing capacity of soil.

2. Determination of Groundwater Depth and Aquifer Thickness:

 Water Level Measurements:

 Relevant Soil Parameters: Depth to the water table, which indicates the
groundwater level.

 Slug Test:

 Relevant Soil Parameters: Hydraulic conductivity (K) and transmissivity, which

characterize the permeability of aquifers.

3. Subgrade Analysis:

 Dynamic Cone Penetration Test (DCPT):

 Relevant Soil Parameters: DCPT penetration resistance, which provides an

indication of subgrade strength and stiffness.

 Field California Bearing Ratio (CBR) Test:

 Relevant Soil Parameters: CBR value, which measures the relative strength of
subgrade soils under controlled conditions.

4. Embankment Dam:

 Piezometer Installation and Monitoring:

 Relevant Soil Parameters: Monitoring groundwater levels and pore water

pressures to assess seepage and stability.

 Inclinometer Measurements:
  Relevant Soil Parameters: Measures lateral displacement and deformation of
soil layers, crucial for monitoring embankment stability.

 Settlement Monitoring:

 Relevant Soil Parameters: Measuring settlement over time to assess the

consolidation behavior and long-term stability of embankment soils.

These field tests provide valuable data for assessing soil properties, groundwater conditions, and
stability characteristics essential for various geotechnical engineering applications, including foundation
design, slope stability analysis, and embankment construction.

Qno4c) Prepare detailed datasheet and calculation sheets for the following tests:

Here are detailed datasheet templates and calculation sheets for each of the mentioned tests:

1. Dynamic Cone Penetration Test (DCPT):

 Calculate the average blow count (N-value) for each depth interval.

 Plot the blow count (N-value) versus depth to generate a blow count profile.

 Interpret the results based on the blow count profile to assess the soil's engineering properties.

2. Triaxial Compression Test:

 Calculate the axial stress, confining stress, and deviator stress.

 Plot the stress-strain curve.

 Determine the peak strength, ultimate strength, and modulus of elasticity from the stress-strain
curve.

3. Uniaxial Compression Test:

 Calculate the axial stress and axial strain.

 Plot the stress-strain curve.

 Determine the compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, and strain at failure from the stress-
strain curve.

4. California Bearing Ratio (CBR) Test:

 Calculate the CBR value using the formula:

CBR=(Penetration LoadStandard Load)×100CBR=(Standard LoadPenetration Load)×100

 Plot the CBR value versus penetration depth to generate a CBR profile.

 Determine the CBR value at the desired penetration depth for design purposes.
5. One-Dimensional Consolidation Test:

 Calculate the coefficient of consolidation (𝐶𝑣Cv) using the time settlement data.

 Plot the settlement versus the square root of time to generate a consolidation curve.

 Determine the compression index (𝐶𝑐Cc) and coefficient of volume change (𝑀𝑣Mv) from the
consolidation curve.

6. Standard Penetration Test (SPT):

 Calculate the average blow count (N-value) for each test interval.

 Plot the blow count (N-value) versus depth to generate an N-value profile.

 Interpret the results based on the N-value profile to assess the soil's engineering properties.

7. Field Permeability Tests:

 Calculate the hydraulic conductivity (𝐾K) using Darcy's Law: 𝐾=𝑄⋅𝐿𝐴⋅Δ𝐻⋅𝑡K=A⋅ΔH⋅tQ⋅L Where:

 𝑄Q = Flow rate

 𝐿L = Length of flow path

 𝐴A = Cross-sectional area

 Δ𝐻ΔH = Water head difference

 𝑡t = Time interval

 Interpret the results based on the calculated hydraulic conductivity.

8. Compaction Test:

 Calculate the dry density (𝛾𝑑γd) using the formula: 𝛾𝑑=𝑀𝑉γd=VM Where:

 𝑀M = Mass of soil

 𝑉V = Volume of soil

 Plot the dry density versus moisture content to generate a compaction curve.

 Determine the maximum dry density and optimum moisture content from the compaction
curve.