Geotechnics

Geotechnical engineering applies over 100 years of engineering observations and experimentation to classify the relationship between soil, rock and the interaction of groundwater.  This relationship is transposed via in situ observations, laboratory testing and technical design to provide short and long term predictions as to how a soil will react to a change in state, be it an applied load, excavation or change in soil/groundwater conditions. 

What is the benefit?

A detailed understanding of the nature of the ground conditions underlying a site and how they interact with a proposed or existing development is essential to allow for the success of a proposed development or the continued integrity of existing structures.  Developers, existing property owners and those individuals involved in property transactions and subsequent remedial actions may all at one time or another require a geotechnical assessment of a site to quantify any subsurface geotechnical risk.

Why CRA?

In accordance with best practice, the adoption of a combined geotechnical and environmental investigation passes on significant cost savings to our clients.  This is achieved by undertaking multiple sampling and in situ testing to obtain both environmental and geotechnical samples thus negating the need to drill duplicate boreholes.  The data obtained allows for the accurate assessment and provision of geotechnical design parameters.

CRA provides expert advice on all aspects of geotechnical engineering including:

  • Geotechnical site review;
  • Appropriate intrusive investigations to identify soil, rock, and groundwater conditions;
  • Hydrogeological investigations;
  • Expertise in field and laboratory testing (S/CPTs, triaxial, oedometers, particle size distribution analysis, Atterberg Limit tests, etc.);
  • Provision of geotechnical design parameters to facilitate detailed foundation/structural design;
  • Mining assessment, including managing treatment of workings and unstable ground conditions (grouting);
  • SUDS/soakaway drainage assessments (BRE 365);
  • Ground improvement techniques;
  • Earthworks;
  • Slope stability;
  • Excavations;
  • Dewatering; and
  • Working platform design.

For additional information on how CRA could help you, please contact Frank Dennis on fdennis@cra.co.uk or 0115 965 6700.