GEOLOGICAL

AND
GEOPHYSICAL
INVESTIGATION
IN CIVIL ENGINEERING
PREPARED BY GROUP 5
 GROUP MEMBERS

ARRE, JOEMARI BARRETA, BARUELO, ESPONILLA, GIL.

MYRLOVE CHRISTIAN A.

Create a Safe Work Environment:

Enhance productivity through
HERNANDEZ, LAZONA, NUILAN, ZYRIUS
safety.
HASIM, HAMDAN
IRISH TRISHA PRINCESS EMEE
GEOLOGICAL
AND
GEOPHYSICAL
INVESTIGATION
IN CIVIL ENGINEERING
PREPARED BY GROUP 5
Do you ever wonder how
engineers determine if a site is
stable and safe for construction,
or how they identify potential
hazards hidden beneath the
ground?
Objectives Objective 1: Understand the
Importance of Geological and
Geophysical Investigations in

of the Civil Engineering

presentation Objective 2: Explore the Different

Methods and Techniques Used
in Geological and Geophysical
Investigations

Objective 3: Address the

Challenges and Limitations
Faced in Geological and
Geophysical Investigations
GEOLOGICAL AND
GEOPHYSICAL
INVESTIGATION
Both are the first step
towards the completion of a
building and is considered as
the most important step as it
identifies the feasibility of an
area for construction and
determines the foundations
and preventive
measurements to be set up
for the building.
Refers to the systematic GEOLOGICAL
study and analysis of the
Earth's subsurface materials, INVESTIGATION
including soil, rock, and "geo," meaning Earth
groundwater. “ directly “

“geologist“
GELOGICAL INVESTIGATION

CORE DRILLING TEST PITS SAMPLING

 Refers to the use of physics-
GEOPHYSICAL based techniques, like
INVESTIGATION seismic and resistivity
surveys, to analyze
"geo," meaning Earth and “physics”
subsurface conditions non-
“ indirectly “ invasively.

“geophysicist“
GEOPHYSICAL INVESTIGATION

SEISMIC TESTING ELECTRICAL MAGNET SURVEY

RESISTIVITY
COMPARISON GELOGICAL
INVESTIGATION
GEOLOGICAL
INVESTIGATIONS GATHER
DATA THROUGH DIRECT
SAMPLING, WHILE
GEOPHYSICAL
INVESTIGATIONS USE
INDIRECT MEASUREMENTS.
TOGETHER, THEY PROVIDE A
COMPREHENSIVE GEOPHYSICAL
UNDERSTANDING OF INVESTIGATION
SUBSURFACE CONDITIONS.
OBJECTIVES OF GEOLOGICAL AND
GEOPHYSICAL INVESTIGATION

GEOLOGICAL SEISMICITY
LITHOLOGY GROUNDWATER
STRUCTURE
CONDITION
OF THE AREA
GEOLOGICAL
STRUCTURE OF THE
AREA
It is determined by conducting
extensive and intensive geological
surveys.
LITHOLOGY
It includes the types of rocks rocks
that make up different parts of
the area on the surface as also up
and even beyond a decider, their
textures, major structures, and
physical and engineering
properties.
GROUND WATER
CONDITION AND REGION

Reveals the relative

position of water table with
respect the project.
SEISMICITY OF
THE AREA
the occurrence of the
frequency of earthquakes
in the region.
 SITE
INVESTIGATION
 SITE A detailed examination of the
surface and subsurface
INVESTIGATION conditions at a site to assess its
suitability for construction or
other development.
PURPOSE

Assess soil and

rock stability.
Identify hazards like
sinkholes, faults,
and water levels.
STEPS IN SITE
INVESTIGATION
DESK STUDY

FIELD INVESTIGATION

LABORATORY ANALYSIS

REPORT FINDINGS
GEOLOGICAL
METHODS
GEOLOGICAL It refer to techniques used in the study of
Earth's structure, composition, processes,

METHODS
and history. These methods help geologists
understand the physical properties of
rocks, minerals, and subsurface formations,
as well as the processes shaping the
Earth's surface.
Test Pits
Test pits are shallow
excavations dug into
the ground to
investigate the
subsurface
conditions, typically
for construction
projects.
IMPORTANCE
Test pits are important for
assessing subsurface
conditions, determining soil
stability, guiding
construction design,
locating groundwater,
evaluating resource
potential, and uncovering
archaeological artifacts.
 To assess the soil composition, density, and
stability before building or excavating. Test pits
REASON are an essential part of geotechnical
investigations, providing valuable information
FOR USE for engineers and contractors to ensure safe
and successful project execution.
Trenches Sampling
Trenches sampling is
a method of
collecting geological
samples by
excavating a trench
or a channel in the
ground and collecting
material from its walls
or floor.
IMPORTANCE
Provides detailed information
about the geological
structure and stratigraphy of
the area and it allows for the
collection of large samples,
which can be useful for
laboratory analysis. thus can
be used to identify and
characterize geological
hazards, such as landslides or
unstable rock.
 Trench sampling is used to examine subsurface
REASON materials, evaluate mineral deposits, study soil
profiles, assess environmental conditions, and
FOR USE identify geological structures for construction or
resource extraction.
Core Drilling
Core drilling is a method of
drilling that removes a long,
cylindrical sample (called a
core) from the ground to
study the layers of soil, rock,
or minerals below the
surface. It helps geologists
understand what is
underground without
digging everything up.
IMPORTANCE
Provides accurate, direct
samples of subsurface
materials, helping to evaluate
resources like minerals, oil, and
groundwater, and assess ground
conditions for construction. It
ensures reliable data for
decision-making in exploration,
engineering, and environmental
studies.
REASON
Core drilling is used to gather accurate
subsurface samples for evaluating resources,
studying geology, and ensuring safe
FOR USE construction planning.
CONE
PENETRATION
TEST (CPT)
A test that measures
soil properties by
pushing a cone into
the ground. It helps
determine soil
strength and type by
recording the
resistance as the cone
is driven deeper.
IN-SITU
TESTING
• Standard Penetration
Test

Measures the
resistance of soil to
penetration by a
standard sampler. It is
crucial for evaluating
soil strength, density,
and bearing capacity in
geotechnical
engineering.
IMPORTANCE
It provides an estimate of
soil strength, density, and
bearing capacity
through the
measurement of the N-
value, which is essential
for designing
foundations and
evaluating soil stability
REASON
The SPT is used to identify different soil layers
and check for loose or weak soils that might
settle or shift during construction.
FOR USE
IMPORTANCE
It offers continuous
profiling of soil layers,
providing detailed
information about soil
strength and composition.
This allows for precise
assessment of subsurface
conditions, aiding in better
foundation design and
construction planning.
 Is used to gather detailed, continuous data
REASON on soil strength and composition, helping to
assess ground conditions for safe and
FOR USE effective construction.
EXPLORATION
TECHNIQUES
EXPLORATION Exploration techniques are ways to study the
Earth's surface and below it. They help

TECHNIQUES
scientists and engineers learn about an area's
makeup, structure, and resources. Common
methods include drilling, mapping, and
profiling. The goal is to gather information for
decisions about using resources, building
projects, or managing the environment.
BOREHOLES
Exploration Techniques
BOREHOLES Boreholes are narrow, deep holes drilled
into the ground to explore subsurface
conditions. It can vary in depth and
diameter depending on the purpose of
the investigation. And they provide a
direct way to access and study
underground layers.
IMPORTANCE
Gather detailed
information about the
geological and
hydrological properties of
an area. Also used to
monitor groundwater levels
and contamination. They
provide essential data for
designing foundations and
other engineering
structures.
REASON Boreholes are used to obtain accurate and direct
samples from beneath the Earth's surface. Also

FOR crucial for environmental monitoring and managing

groundwater resources. They provide valuable
insights into subsurface conditions that are not
USE visible from the surface.
INSTRUMENTS
INVOLVED
Drilling Rigs
Core Barrels
Mud Pumps
Logging Tools
Piezometers
Borehole Cameras
GEOLOGICAL
MAPPING
Exploration Techniques
 Geological mapping is the process of

GEOLOGICAL
creating maps that show the distribution
and characteristics of rocks and other
geological features on the Earth's

MAPPING surface. These maps provide a visual

representation of the geology of an area.
IMPORTANCE
To document and interpret the
geological features of an area. It
helps in identifying mineral deposits,
fault lines, and other significant
geological structures. Also, to guide
exploration and development
activities by providing a
comprehensive overview of the
terrain.
REASON Geological mapping is used to identify areas
with potential mineral or energy resources. It
FOR helps in assessing geological hazards like
earthquakes or landslides by revealing fault

USE lines and unstable formations.

INSTRUMENTS
INVOLVED
Geological Compass
GPS Devices
Field Notebooks and Tablets
Rock Hammers and Chisels
Hand Lenses
Topographic Maps and Aerial
Photographs
 SOIL
PROFILING
Exploration Techniques
 Soil profiling involves examining and

SOIL
describing the layers of soil in a specific
area. It provides information about the
soil's composition, structure, and

PROFILING properties. Soil profiles are typically

studied by digging a pit or using a soil
auger to access different layers.
IMPORTANCE
To assess the suitability
of soil for agriculture,
construction, and
environmental
management. Also,
helps in identifying soil
types and their
characteristics, such as
drainage, fertility, and
stability.
REASON Soil profiling is used to evaluate the potential
of land for agricultural production by
FOR understanding soil fertility and structure. It
helps in assessing the risk of soil erosion and

USE other environmental concerns.

INSTRUMENTS
INVOLVED
Augers
Soil Probes
Moisture Meters
Penetrometers
Soil Sieves
pH Meters and Test Kits
GEOPHYSICAL
METHODS
 EOPHYSICAL
G Geophysical methods
METHODS measure the physical
properties of materials to
learn about the Earth's
surface and subsurface.
SEISMIC
TOMOGRAPHY
 EISMIC
S
Seismic tomography is a
TOMOGRAPHY
technique that uses seismic
waves to model the Earth's
interior in 3D.
 IMPORTANCE

Site Characterization

Foundation Design

Tunnel and Dam Construction

Seismic Hazard Assessment

REASON FOR USE

High-Resolution Imaging:

Cost-Effective:

Wide Range of Applications:

Real-Time Data Analysis:

SEISMIC
REFRACTION
 Seismic refraction analyzes
seismic wave travel times to
study subsurface layers and
SEISMIC their properties.
REFRACTION
SEISMIC IMPORTANCE
REFRACTION Site Assessment:

Foundation Design:

Groundwater Exploration:

Seismic Hazard Assessment:

SEISMIC REASON FOR USE
REFRACTION Non-Invasive Technique:

Cost-Effective:

Wide Application:

Accuracy in Layer Identification:

 ELECTRICAL
RESISTIVITY
GEOPHYSICAL METHODS
Electrical resistivity measures
subsurface materials' resistance to
electrical current, helping map
features like soil, rock, groundwater,
and voids.

ELECTRICAL
RESISTIVITY
ELECTRICAL IMPORTANCE
RESISTIVITY Site Investigation:

Foundation Design:

Mapping Subsurface Features:

Environmental Assessment:
ELETRICAL REASON FOR USE
RESISTIVITY Cost-Effective:

Versatile Application:

High Accuracy:

Sustainability:
 GROUND
PENETRATING
RADAR (GPR)
GEOPHYSICAL METHODS
 Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
uses electromagnetic waves to
detect and image subsurface
objects, layers, and voids, providing
detailed shallow subsurface
insights.

GROUND
PENETRATING RADAR
(GPR)
GROUND
PENETRATING IMPORTANCE
RADAR (GPR) Infrastructure Inspection:
Utility Mapping:

Foundation Analysis:

Archaeological and Environmental

Studies:
GROUND
PENETRATING REASON FOR USE
RADAR (GPR) High Resolution and Detail:
Shallow Penetration Depth:

Non-Destructive:

Real-Time Data Collection:

ELECTROMAGNETIC
SURVEYS
GEOPHYSICAL METHODS
 Electromagnetic (EM) survey, both
airborne and ground, is one of the most
commonly used methods in mineral
exploration. The technique is proficient in
direct detection of conductive sulfide
deposits. This instrument is highly
sensitive that is why i cannot be used or
not recommended in certain area such as
urban areas.

ELECTROMAGNETIC
SURVEY
INSTRUMENTS
REASON FOR USE

1. Non-Invasive
Exploration
2. Accuracy & Early Risk
Identification
3. Wide Range of
Applications
4. Cost and Time
Efficiency

1 2
IMPORTANCE
Electromagnetic (EM) methods are crucial in
civil engineering for non-invasive subsurface
exploration, enabling efficient, safe, and
sustainable construction. They help in:

Site Selection and Resource Identification

Foundation Design
Environmental Studies
Infrastructure Development
Disaster Preparedness
Heritage Preservation

3
 GRAVITY
GRADIOMETRY
GEOPHYSICAL METHODS
 Gravity gradiometers are devices
that measure all the independent
tensor components of the gravity
gradient field from a moving
platform, allowing for accurate
data acquisition to improve
mineral and hydrocarbon
exploration results.

INSTRUMENTS GRAVITY GRADIOMETRY

SURVEY
INSTRUMENT
INSTRUMENT
APPLICATION
ON
CIVIL
ENGINEERING
FOUNDATION
DESIGN
Ensures proper load distribution to
prevent structural failures.

Techniques Used EXAMPLE:

Standard Penetration Test (SPT) In constructing a high-rise building, core drilling is

used to analyze deep soil layers and rock strength. If
Core Drilling
weak soil is detected, engineers may opt for pile
Boreholes foundations instead of shallow footings to ensure
stability.
 Slope Stability
Techniques Used

Geological Mapping

Seismic Refraction

Electrical Resistivity

EXAMPLE:

During the construction of a mountain Identifies areas prone to landslides

road, seismic refraction reveals a layer of and erosion, ensuring the safety of
loose soil overlying a steep slope. Engineers structures near slopes.
reinforce the slope with retaining walls and
drainage systems to prevent landslides.
 EXAMPLE:

Ensures structural stability in In dam construction, electrical

complex terrains and prevents
Tunnel and failures due to weak
resistivity is used to detect
permeable soil layers under the
Dam subsurface conditions. planned structure. Engineers
Construction reinforce these areas with grout
injections to prevent water seepage.

Techniques Used

Seismic Reflection

Electrical Resistivity

Gravity Surveys
 Groundwater
Management
Locates and evaluates aquifers to
manage water resources sustainably.

Techniques Used
EXAMPLE:
Electrical Resistivity
In a water-scarce region, boreholes and
resistivity surveys identify an aquifer Boreholes
beneath clay-rich soil. This data guides
the installation of a water extraction
Cone Penetration Test (CPT)
system for irrigation purposes.
Earthquake
Preparedness
Maps fault lines and assesses seismic
hazards to guide construction in
earthquake-prone areas.

Techniques Used

Electrical Resistivity
Seismic Method EXAMPLE:
Boreholes Before constructing a hospital in an
earthquake-prone region, seismic reflection
Cone Penetration Test (CPT) identifies a nearby fault line. The structure is
designed with seismic base isolators to
withstand potential ground motion.
CHALLENGES AND LIMITATIONS
IN

GEOLOGICAL AND
GEOPHYSICAL
INVESTIGATIONS
NATURAL COMPLEXITY
RECOMMENDATION

HETEROGENEITY OF THE
SUBSURFACE : The Earth's
CONTEXT
subsurface is highly variable,
with diverse rock types,
layers, and properties that
can lead to ambiguous or
conflicting interpretations.
ENVIRONMENTAL
CONDITION AND SITE
RECOMMENDATION
CONSTRAINTS
WEATHER CONDITIONS - It can significantly
influence geophysical and geological survey
processes

ACCESSIBILITY - Remote or hazardous

locations may limit equipment deployment.

URBAN SETTING - Interference from buildings

and underground utilities can affect methods
like GPR and magnetic surveys.
INSTRUMENTAL
RECOMMENDATION
LIMITATIONS
SENSITIVITY AND RESOLUTION : Equipment like
electrical resistivity meters may struggle in
areas with high moisture or conductive soils.

CONTEXT

DEPTH AND LIMITATION : Certain

methods, such as GPR, are only effective
for shallow subsurface investigations.
COST AND TIME
RECOMMENDATION
CONSTRAINTS
BUDGET
CONTEXTRESTRICTION : Advanced
methods, like seismic surveys or
borehole drilling, can be expensive and
may not be feasible for small projects.

TIME CONSUMPTION : Detailed

investigations, particularly those
requiring lab analysis, can delay project
timelines.
CONCLUSION
 GEOLOGICAL GEOPHYSICAL
INVESTIGATION INVESTIGATION

Core Drilling Seismic Testing

Test Pits Electrical Resistivity

Sampling Magnetic Survey

 S I T E I N V E S T I G A T I O N

GEOLOGICAL GEOPHYSICAL
METHOD METHOD

Test Pits
Seismic Tomography

Trenches Sampling Electrical Resistivity

Core Driling Ground Penetrating Radar ( GPR )

In-situ Testing Electromagnetic Surveys

Cone Penetration Test ( CPT ) Gravity Gradiometry

G E O L O G I C A L M E T H O D
G E O P H Y S I C A L M E T H O D
 T E C H N I Q U E S

Bore Holes Geological Mapping Soil Profiling

K e y L e a r n i n g s . . .

Site Investigation and Foundation Design

Earthquake Hazard Assessment

Slope Stability and Landslide Mitigation

Groundwater Exploration and Management

 Material Characterization for Construction

Tunnel and Underground Structure Design

Environmental Impact Assessment

Infrastructure Monitoring and Maintenance

Thank
You