Groundwatch PH

Integrated Applications

Foundation Investigation Geophysics

This page helps teams plan where to investigate first, which zones may need borehole confirmation, and how to reduce redesign and excavation surprises.

Definition

What this method is

Foundation investigation geophysics integrates seismic, resistivity, and radar methods to reduce uncertainty in early design and constructability planning.

This page helps teams plan where to investigate first, which zones may need borehole confirmation, and how to reduce redesign and excavation surprises.

How It Works

From field measurement to interpreted model

  1. 1The project objective, design stage, and expected foundation constraints are defined during scoping.
  2. 2Methods such as seismic refraction, MASW, ERI, and where applicable GPR are selected based on site condition and target depth.
  3. 3Interpretation outputs are integrated with boreholes and geotechnical data to support foundation decisions and validation planning.

When to Use

Best-fit conditions for this method

  • Pre-design and pre-construction foundation studies
  • Sites with variable rockhead depth or weathering profiles
  • Projects where boreholes alone cannot explain lateral ground change

What It Can Help Identify

Subsurface features and signals

  • Rockhead variation and weathered transition zones
  • Potential weak zones and stiffness contrast areas
  • Priority locations for borehole, test pit, or direct validation

Deliverables

What you receive

  • Integrated foundation investigation interpretation report
  • Risk-priority map and recommended validation locations
  • Method-specific sections and engineering notes for decision teams

Typical Outputs

What the data looks like

  • Rockhead and stiffness profiles
  • Risk-zone maps
  • Validation-priority plan

Applications

Common applications in the Philippines

Building and industrial foundation investigations

Road, bridge, and corridor foundation planning

Renewable-energy foundation and access-road studies

Method Limitations

What this method cannot do alone

  • Results are interpreted models and should be correlated with boreholes, test pits, and direct investigation where required.
  • Method performance and confidence vary with site access, noise, and subsurface contrast conditions.

Geophysical results are interpreted models based on measured physical property contrasts. Results should be correlated with boreholes, test pits, drilling, geological mapping, laboratory data, or other direct investigation methods where required.

Related Services

Methods and applications that work together

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foundation investigation geophysics replace boreholes?

No. It improves lateral understanding between boreholes, but direct investigation remains necessary for confirmation and design-critical decisions.

What methods are commonly used for foundation investigations?

Common methods include seismic refraction, MASW, electrical resistivity imaging, and in selected cases GPR or downhole seismic tests.

How does this help reduce construction risk?

It helps identify subsurface variability early, prioritize validation points, and reduce avoidable redesign and excavation surprises.

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