Chapter 7 Ground investigation, testing and interpretation of results
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Published:January 01, 2012
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CiteCitation
R. J. Epps, I. E. Higginbottom, G. West, Engineering Group Working Party, 2012. "Chapter 7 Ground investigation, testing and interpretation of results", Hot Deserts: Engineering, Geology and Geomorphology Engineering Group Working Party Report, M. J. Walker
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Abstract
Ground investigations in hot deserts require an approach that takes account of the special environmental and ground conditions, as well as recognizing the scale, nature, cost and extent of the project in question. For example, the objective of a rapid reconnaissance of a wide area of terrain is to provide coverage at relatively low cost, using techniques such as normal observation, field mapping, geophysics or trial pitting. Whereas, by contrast, the requirements of a design-stage investigation are much more specific and detailed, focusing on individual structures or potential geotechnical hazards. To be cost-effective, the design of such an investigation needs to be based on a good feasibility/reconnaissance study.
The individual stages of the site investigation process are described in Chapter 6. The ground investigation methods described in this chapter represent the second stage, usually using intrusive techniques, but a flexible approach is required to ensure that the maximum benefit is derived from the results. The desk study is used to provide an initial design of the second-stage ground investigation. During the intrusive phase there should be a continuous review of the data, with modifications being made to the scope and programme based on results obtained in the field.
Sections 7.1–7.3 of this chapter address the technical and practical considerations that must be taken into account when planning ground investigations in desert conditions. Existing desert ground models have been described in Chapter 4 and an Earth systems model is proposed. The table presented in Section
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Contents
Hot Deserts: Engineering, Geology and Geomorphology Engineering Group Working Party Report

This volume provides an authoritative and comprehensive state-of-the-art review of hot desert terrains in all parts of the world, their geomaterials and influence on civil engineering site investigation, design and construction. It primarily covers conditions and materials in modern hot deserts, but there is also coverage of unmodified ancient desert soils that exhibit engineering behaviour similar to modern desert materials. Thorough and up-to-date guidance on modern field evaluation and ground investigation techniques in hot arid areas is provided, including reference to a new approach to the desert model and detailed specialized assessments of the latest methods for materials characterization and testing.
The volume is based on world-wide experience in hot desert terrain and draws upon the knowledge and expertise of the members of a Geological Society Engineering Group Working Party comprising practising geologists, geomorphologists and civil engineers with a wealth of varied, but complementary experience of working in hot deserts.
This is an essential reference book for professionals, as well as a valuable textbook for students. It is written in a style that is accessible to the non-specialist. A comprehensive glossary is also included.