Evaluation of Geotechnical Parameters of Soil Using Electrical Resistivity Imaging

Evaluation of Geotechnical Parameters of Soil Using Electrical Resistivity Imaging
Author: Md Asif Akhtar
Publisher:
Total Pages: 218
Release: 2022
Genre: Engineering geology
ISBN:

Electric resistivity imaging (ERI) is an effective non-destructive and rapid measuring way of obtaining continuous soil subsurface resistivity profiles. An ERI technique can be used to identify moisture variations and soil heterogeneities in an area. Thus, ERI is becoming a popular tool in geotechnical (FHWA, 2015)engineering; however, it only provides qualitative information at the current time. Using qualitative images, it is challenging to extract quantitative geotechnical information, such as the type of soil, moisture content, degree of saturation, and atterberg limit, of the subsurface. Several studies have described the electrical resistance of soil as a function of pore fluid conductivity and surface conductance. Additionally, electrical resistivity measurements have also been made on commercial soils in order to determine the influence of geotechnical properties. Since a conventional geotechnical investigation may not perform characterization tests of porewater or surface charge, electrical resistivity must be correlated with geotechnical properties that can be tested in the laboratory. The objective of this experimental study is to investigate the relationship between the electrical properties of soil and geotechnical parameters of locally available soil and determine correlations between geotechnical parameters and electrical resistivity that can be used by geotechnical engineers. A study was conducted to study the electrical properties of soils obtained from 22 boreholesof four different locations, namely Fort-Worth, Beaumont, Corpus Christi, and El-Paso, selected based on their geological formation. Besides collecting soil samples through soil borings using the Texas Cone Penetration (TCP) method, a field, electrical resistivity survey was also conducted using 28 and 56 electrodes at the same locations to obtain a subsurface resistivity map. Field resistivity values were correlated with soil TCP values, and the correlation was compared to previous literature. In this study, 44 soil samples classified as low plastic clay (CL), 15 samples as high plastic clay (CH), and four samples as elastic silt (MH) were used to measure the resistivity of compacted clay soils. Furthermore, soil samples were categorized into six categories based on their liquid limit higher than 50, between 35 and 50, and lower than 35, and plastic limit higher than 25 and lower than 25 to investigate the changes in geoelectrical properties of soil. Various geotechnical conditions were used in laboratory tests to determine the influence of soil parameters on electrical resistivity. In both clayey soils and sandy soils, electrical resistivity measurements were found strongly influenced by the moisture content and degree of saturation. Soil resistivity was found to be averagely decreased by 80%, 43%, and 21% of initial value when the soil moisture content was increased from 10% to 20%, 20% to 30%, and 30% to 40% except for the soil samples contains liquid limit less than 50 and plasticity index higher than 25 for unit weight of 11.8 KN/m3.Soil resistivity was found to be decreased by 42%, 25%, and 41% for the above-mentioned water content due to the high activity of soil. Moreover, soil resistivity decreases 45% and 49% of the initial values when the unit weight increases from 11.8 KN/m3 to 13.4 KN/m3 and 13.4 KN/m3 to14.9 KN/m3. Soil resistivity decreases as much as 57-fold for normal clay and 7.5 fold for active clay from the initial value when the degree of saturation increased from 17% to 100%. However, the rate of change of resistivity is low when the degree of saturation of compacted clay is more than 50%. Furthermore, clay properties such as liquid limit and plasticity index also affect electrical resistance at different saturation levels. However, at a higher level of saturation, geotechnical parameters have less impact on electrical resistivity. The soil engineering properties of both sandy and clayey soils were correlated with electrical resistance using different multiple linear regression (MLR) models developed with R-studio. In developing a multiple linear regression equation for clayey soil, the degree of saturation and plasticity index were selected as independent parameters, while for sandy soil, moisture and sand content were used. Validation of the MLR models was based on field data, and therefore these models can be used for estimating engineering properties.

Evaluation of Pysicho-mechanical Properties of Clayey Soils Using Electrical Resistivity Imaging Technique

Evaluation of Pysicho-mechanical Properties of Clayey Soils Using Electrical Resistivity Imaging Technique
Author: Golam Kibria
Publisher:
Total Pages: 318
Release: 2014
Genre: Clay soils
ISBN:

Resistivity imaging (RI) is a promising approach to obtaining continuous profile of soil subsurface. This method offers simple technique to identify moisture variation and heterogeneity of the investigated area. However, at present, only qualitative information of subsurface can be obtained using RI. A study on the quantification of geotechnical properties has become important for rigorous use of this method in the evaluation of geohazard potential and construction quality control of landfill liner system. Several studies have been performed to describe electrical resistivity of soil as a function of pore fluid conductivity and surface conductance. However, characterization tests on pore water and surface charge are not typically performed in a conventional geotechnical investigation. The overall objective of this study is to develop correlations between geotechnical parameters and electrical resistivity of soil, which would provide a mean to estimate geotechnical properties from RI. As a part of the study, multiple regression analyses were conducted to develop practically applicable models correlating resistivity with influential geotechnical parameters. The soil samples considered in this study were classified as highly plastic clay (CH) and low plasticity clay (CL) according to Unified Soil Classification System (USCS). Based on the physical tests, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis, kaolinite was identified as the dominant mineral with some traces of magnesium, calcium, potassium, and iron. Electrical resistivity tests were conducted on compacted clays and undisturbed samples under varied geotechnical conditions. The experimental results indicated that the degree of saturation substantially influenced electrical resistivity. Electrical resistivity decreased as much as 11 times from initial value for the increase of degree of saturation from 23 to 100% in the laboratory tests on compacted clays. In case of undisturbed soil samples, resistivity decreased as much as sixteen fold (49.4 to 3.2 Ohm-m) for an increase of saturation from 31 to 100%. Furthermore, the resistivity results were different for the specimens at a specific degree of saturation because of varied surface activity and isomorphous substitution of clayey soils. In addition to physical properties, compressibility of clays was correlated with electrical conductivity. Based on the investigation, it was determined that the electrical conductivity vs. pressure curves followed similar trends as e vs. logp curves. Multiple linear regression (MLR) models were developed for compacted and undisturbed samples using statistical analysis software SAS (2009). During model development, degree of saturation and CEC were selected as independent variables. The proposed models were validated using experimental results on a different set of samples. Moreover, the applicability of the models in the determination of degrees of saturation was evaluated using field RI tests.

Determination of Geotechnical Properties of Clayey Soil from Resistivity Imaging (RI)

Determination of Geotechnical Properties of Clayey Soil from Resistivity Imaging (RI)
Author: Golam Kibria
Publisher:
Total Pages:
Release: 2011
Genre:
ISBN:

The use of resistivity imaging (RI) in the subsurface investigation has increased in recent years. RI is a non destructive method and provides a continuous image of the subsurface. Based on the electrical conduction phenomenon of soil, spatial and temporal moisture variation and heterogeneity of subsurface can be evaluated from RI. However, only qualitative evaluation of subsurface can be obtained from RI. The correlation between RI results and geotechnical engineering properties of soils has become an important issue for rigorous use of this method in site investigation. The current study attempts to develop the relationship and correlations between geotechnical parameters with electrical resistivity of soil. These correlations can be used for determining geotechnical properties from RI. Soil samples collected for the current study mostly consisted of medium to high plasticity clay with plasticity index more than 30. High energy X-Ray fluorescence (XRF) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) image analysis showed that the dominant clay mineral in the soil samples might be montmorillonite. The effects of moisture content, unit weight, degree of saturation, specific surface area, pore space, ion composition, compaction condition and fine fraction on soil resistivity were determined. Test results showed that soil resistivity decreased with the average rate of 13.8 Ohm-m for the increase of moisture from 10% to 20% at fixed unit weight. However, soil resistivity ranged from 2.1 to 2.42 ohm-m at 50% moisture content. Enhanced interaction between the clay particles and water and occurrence of ionic conduction reduced electrical resistivity with the increase of moisture content. Test results also indicated that soil resistivity decreased almost linearly with an average rate of 0.3 Ohm-m/pcf between moist unit weight 88.5 to 100 pcf at 18% moisture content. The average rate of reduction was 0.08 Ohm-m/pcf for further increase in moist unit weight in same moisture content. Reduction of interclod pores and better particle-to-particle contact might cause reduction in soil resistivity with the increase of unit weight. However, soil resistivity was more sensitive to moisture content than unit weight. In addition, average resistivity of the samples decreased from 6.7 to 3.2 Ohm-m with the increase of degree of saturation from 40% to 90% due to elimination of interclod macro pores, reorientation of clay particle and remolding of clay. Soil resistivity increased from 4.3 to 14.2 Ohm-m with the increase of specific surface area from 69.6 to 107.1 m2/gm at 18% moisture content and 75 pcf dry unit weight. Lack of formation of water film around the soil particle might restrict the current flow. Moreover, soil resistivity increased from 4.4 to 14.2 Ohm-m for the increase of pore space from 1.91% to 10.56% at 18% moisture content and 75 pcf dry unit weight and then decreased. Test results showed that soil resistivity increased from 4.3 to 14.2 Ohm-m with the increase of calcium ion from 8.3% to 13.9% at 18% moisture content and 75 pcf dry unit weight. Observed soil resistivity was high when samples were compacted at dry of optimum because of less pronounce bridging between soil particles. However, soil resistivity decreased when samples were compacted at wet of optimum. Near saturated voids and better interparticle bridging might caused the reduction in resistivity. Correlation of resistivity with unconfined shear strength of soil showed that soil samples prepared with moisture content below optimum, resistivity was high and strength was low. However, both resistivity and strength was low at moisture condition above optimum condition. In addition, soil resistivity were in between 3.16 to 3.6 Ohm-m for the increase of fine fraction from 66% to 94.8%. Therefore, the observed variation in soil resistivity with the fine content was not significant. Based on the study, it can be summarized that geotechnical engineering properties can be determined from RI under certain site specific conditions and moisture is the most influencing factor in electrical conduction.

Site Investigation using Resistivity Imaging

Site Investigation using Resistivity Imaging
Author: Sahadat Hossain
Publisher: CRC Press
Total Pages: 232
Release: 2018-08-06
Genre: Science
ISBN: 1351047590

Subsurface investigation is the most important phase of any civil engineering construction or development activities. The geologic conditions can be extremely complex, variable, and subject to change with time; soil test borings and in-situ tests are employed to obtain subsoil information. Resistivity Imaging (RI) is a non-destructive, fast and cost-effective method of site investigation and soil characterization. Site Investigation using Resistivity Imaging aims to summarize pertinent details of RI in site investigation for geotechnical and geo-environmental applications. It aims to bridge the gap that currently exists between the geotechnical/geo-environmental and geophysical engineering community. The geotechnical and geo-environmental engineers will be able to use annd understand geophysical data and utilize the information for their design. Features: First comprehensive handbook aimed at engineers that summarises pertinent details of Resitivity Imaging (RI) in site investigation for geotechnical and geo-environmental applications. for geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineers, making it possible to interpret geophysical data and utilize the information for their design. explanining the advantages of RI over conventional site investigations: continuous image, large coverage, low cost, quick and easy data processing. It will be a comprehensive handbook for the application of RI in geotechnical and geo-environmental site investigations.

Site Investigation using Resistivity Imaging

Site Investigation using Resistivity Imaging
Author: Sahadat Hossain
Publisher: CRC Press
Total Pages: 265
Release: 2018-08-06
Genre: Science
ISBN: 1351047582

Subsurface investigation is the most important phase of any civil engineering construction or development activities. The geologic conditions can be extremely complex, variable, and subject to change with time; soil test borings and in-situ tests are employed to obtain subsoil information. Resistivity Imaging (RI) is a non-destructive, fast and cost-effective method of site investigation and soil characterization. Site Investigation using Resistivity Imaging aims to summarize pertinent details of RI in site investigation for geotechnical and geo-environmental applications. It aims to bridge the gap that currently exists between the geotechnical/geo-environmental and geophysical engineering community. The geotechnical and geo-environmental engineers will be able to use annd understand geophysical data and utilize the information for their design. Features: First comprehensive handbook aimed at engineers that summarises pertinent details of Resitivity Imaging (RI) in site investigation for geotechnical and geo-environmental applications. for geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineers, making it possible to interpret geophysical data and utilize the information for their design. explanining the advantages of RI over conventional site investigations: continuous image, large coverage, low cost, quick and easy data processing. It will be a comprehensive handbook for the application of RI in geotechnical and geo-environmental site investigations.

Recent Advances in Geo-Environmental Engineering, Geomechanics and Geotechnics, and Geohazards

Recent Advances in Geo-Environmental Engineering, Geomechanics and Geotechnics, and Geohazards
Author: Amjad Kallel
Publisher: Springer
Total Pages: 459
Release: 2018-12-31
Genre: Science
ISBN: 303001665X

This edited volume contains the best papers in the geo-engineering field accepted for presentation at the 1st Springer Conference of the Arabian Journal of Geosciences, Tunisia 2018. In addition, it includes 3 keynotes by international experts on the following topics: 1. A new three-dimensional rock mass strength criterion 2. New tools and techniques of remote sensing for geologic hazard assessment 3. Land subsidence induced by the engineering-environmental effects in Shanghai China The book is useful for readers who would like to get a broad coverage in geo-engineering. It contains 11 chapters covering the following main areas: (a) Applications in geo-environmental engineering including soil remediation, (b) Characterization of geo-materials using geological, geotechnical and geophysical techniques, (c) Soil improvement applications, (d) Soil behaviour under dynamic loading, (e) Recent studies on expansive soils, (f) Analytical and numerical modelling of various geo-structures, (g) Slope stability, (h) Landslides, (i) Subsidence studies and (j) Recent studies on various other types of geo-hazards.

Determination of Selected Geotechnical Properties of Soil Using Electrical Conductivity Testing

Determination of Selected Geotechnical Properties of Soil Using Electrical Conductivity Testing
Author: L. Sebastian Bryson
Publisher:
Total Pages: 10
Release: 2009
Genre: Clay fraction
ISBN:

The use of electrical conductivity measurements, at relatively low frequencies, has been shown to be an effective tool for characterizing soils for hydrogeological studies. Many of the properties that affect the hydraulic and mechanical behavior of a soil also affect the electrical response. Thus, there is a likelihood that electrical measurements of soils will provide useful information for predicting geotechnical parameters. This paper presents the results of efforts to develop an electrical conductivity testing system that can be used specifically to evaluate geotechnical properties of soils. The testing system consisted of a robust data acquisition and control system that allowed for autonomous testing of various sand-clay mixtures and a testing apparatus that was rugged enough to allow soil samples to be compacted directly into the cell. The testing apparatus utilized a multi-electrode configuration which facilitated the investigation of anisotropic electrical measurements of the compacted soil samples. The data obtained during the evaluation phase of this research showed that low-frequency electrical conductivity measurements are viable for evaluating and predicting geotechnical properties of soils such as void ratio and volumetric water content, and the use of the multi-electrode configuration is very promising for evaluating anisotropy in soils.

The Geoelectrical Methods in Geophysical Exploration

The Geoelectrical Methods in Geophysical Exploration
Author: Mikhail Semenovich Zhdanov
Publisher: Elsevier Science & Technology
Total Pages: 892
Release: 1994
Genre: Science
ISBN:

Hardbound. This volume deals with electrical methods as used in applied geophysics. There are 14 chapters. The first four chapters comprise a handbook of information needed in applied electrical geophysics. The next three chapters deal with three standard techniques: Direct Current (DC), Magnetotelluric (MT) and Controlled-Source Electromagnetic (EM) methods. Chapters 8 - 11 develop important aspects of the subject which are common to all three standard techniques. These common aspects include ambiguity and insensitivity, data acquisition, modeling and simulation, and interpretation. Chapters 12 and 13 cover experience with electrical methods in the solution of a wide variety of practical problems.

Correlations of Soil and Rock Properties in Geotechnical Engineering

Correlations of Soil and Rock Properties in Geotechnical Engineering
Author: Jay Ameratunga
Publisher: Springer
Total Pages: 236
Release: 2015-12-11
Genre: Science
ISBN: 8132226291

This book presents a one-stop reference to the empirical correlations used extensively in geotechnical engineering. Empirical correlations play a key role in geotechnical engineering designs and analysis. Laboratory and in situ testing of soils can add significant cost to a civil engineering project. By using appropriate empirical correlations, it is possible to derive many design parameters, thus limiting our reliance on these soil tests. The authors have decades of experience in geotechnical engineering, as professional engineers or researchers. The objective of this book is to present a critical evaluation of a wide range of empirical correlations reported in the literature, along with typical values of soil parameters, in the light of their experience and knowledge. This book will be a one-stop-shop for the practising professionals, geotechnical researchers and academics looking for specific correlations for estimating certain geotechnical parameters. The empirical correlations in the forms of equations and charts and typical values are collated from extensive literature review, and from the authors' database.