Geotechnical Engineering & Engineering Geology

IFE has completed hundreds of geotechnical engineering and engineering geology studies and investigations. We utilize a number of field investigation methods, depending on the specific site geologic conditions. Site exploratory methods include backhoe, hollow-stem auger drilling, rotary wash drilling, Becker hammer (percussion) drilling, cone penetration testing (CPT) and rock coring.
Geophysical methods used for site investigation include seismic refraction surveys and shear wave surveys. For a hard rock site, we typically use rock coring equipment to obtain samples and perform seismic refraction surveys (geophysical) to evaluate the hardness and excavation characteristics of the rock. For a loose sandy site, we often use rotary drilling rigs to obtain samples and evaluate the liquefaction and seismic settlement characteristics. CPT, backhoe, and other investigation methods may be used in conjunction with drilling and coring, depending on the specific geologic and soil characteristics.

Services

Our geotechnical engineering and engineering geology experience and capabilities include but not limited to :

  • Earthquake fault studies
  • Evaluation of earth-retaining structures and excavations
  • Foundation engineering
  • Groundwater investigation and control
  • Infiltration testing
  • Liquefaction and seismic settlement studies
  • Onsite wastewater treatment system design
  • Pavement evaluation and design
  • Rippability studies
  • Slope stability analysis
  • Subsurface exploration

We provide geotechnical engineering and geologic services throughout project planning, design and construction. Services during the project planning stages are typically limited to research of potential geologic hazards or obstacles (e.g. earthquake faults, active landslides, etc.). During project design, when the locations and types of project structure(s) are known, we will conduct subsurface exploration using one or a combination of the aforementioned exploration methods. Soil and rock samples are obtained during this stage for laboratory testing to evaluate the actual engineering characteristics of the rock or soil materials sampled. This information is then used to develop specific recommendations for structure foundation design and construction. Recommendations are also developed during this stage for site earthwork, including fill placement, embankment construction, and trench backfilling.