Geophysical Solution
S-scan geophysical survey showed variability in the uncontrolled fill
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The Challenge
- Numerous large boulders hindered drilling in Littleton, MA
- Boulders caused soil stiffness variation, complicating bedrock identification
- Variable uncontrolled fill thickness obstructed boring operations
The project site in Littleton, MA had a substantial number of very large boulders within an uncontrolled fill that were hard to penetrate with standard drilling augers. These boulders contributed to variability of soil stiffness within the uncontrolled fill and were a big challenge in identifying the depth to bedrock. The project site had variable thickness of uncontrolled fill that impeded successful execution of boring activities.
The Solution
Geocomp was hired to provide foundation recommendations of the water treatment plant on site. Our team performed standard boring activities to foundation design, but the borings could not be completed and did not reach the target depths required for foundation design because of the very large boulders within the uncontrolled fill. S-scan geophysical survey was able to show the variability in the uncontrolled fill, helping to identify hard boulders and recommend the right foundation, reducing the likelihood that deep foundations would be stopped at unsuitable depths.
The client used the data to evaluate the cost and potential of “remove-and replace” which without continuous profiles, would not have had the ability to accurately provide costs. Unexpected substantial variability at the site made the drilling activities and foundation design very challenging. S-scan results were used to guide the alternative location of drilling as well as re-set the expectation of the client for deep foundations which was not anticipated in the beginning of the project.
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