Delaware’s Indian River Inlet Bridge
Unexpected Foundation Behavior

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Geocomp Corporation was retained by the Delaware Department of Transportation (Del DOT) to perform an independent assessment of foundation conditions and performance of the approach fills, and to advise the Department on anticipated future performance. Geocomp conducted a detailed field investigation and comprehensive laboratory soil testing program to determine pertinent engineering properties of the soft clay deposit. Engineering analyses were performed to arrive at realistic predictions of consolidation and gain in strength of the soft foundation soils, as a function of time and loading history, in order to properly assess foundation stability. Plastic analysis, using numerical models (PLAXIS), was conducted to assess the impact of approach fill loading on the very soft foundation soils with respect to short-term deformation, including lateral squeeze and long term creep.


Numerical Analysis Model
(click graphic to enlarge)

We concluded that 40 to 50% of the total observed vertical movements were attributable to undrained deformations in the soft clay. The remainder was consolidation settlement. We provided the Department with predicted magnitudes and rates of continuing vertical and lateral movements over the next 5 to 7 years that were quite large.

From the Lab
 Towards A Paperless Laboratory

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  • tracks the source, time and technician for
    every piece of data
  • interfaces with the company's accounting
    system to automatically produce itemized
    invoices.


Fig. 1. Sample LIMS test assignment screen
(Click figure to enlarge)

Once samples are logged and tests assigned (see Fig. 1), an automated e-mail is generated and sent to the client's project manager. This message confirms receipt of samples, summarizes the requested tests, lists special instructions, and shows the anticipated test price and delivery date. The client can make changes to testing requirements and provide feedback on anticipated delivery dates.

To guide the technician through the test process, LIMS has a unique set of data entry screens for each test, and these screens display all the options necessary to perform the test. When weighing specimens on scales, the technician can send data directly to LIMS by utilizing the weighing scale's data port-to-workstation connection. The technician also has the option of entering the weight using a touch screen monitor.

Overall, this system has reduced our man-hours requirements for standard geotechnical tests by about 11%. The decrease in testing time allows us to get test results to our clients faster. It also translates into decreased labor costs. The reduction in cost for standard geotechnical tests has been approximately 19%. LIMS has benefited our laboratory by decreasing turnaround time, decreasing production costs and reducing errors.

Page 2    www.geocomp.com
below the SURFACE
 December 2007