Geotechnical engineering is the specialist branch of civil engineering concerned with the behaviour of earth materials and the application of soil and rock mechanics. Geotechnical engineers determine the physical, mechanical and chemical properties of soil and rock to design foundations, retaining structures and earthworks.
Foundations may be shallow or deep depending upon the ground conditions encountered. Retaining structures includes earth-filled dams and retaining walls. Earthworks includes embankments, tunnels, channels, reservoirs and bunds.
A geotechnical site investigation determines the engineering parameters of soil and rock and how they will interact with a proposed construction. The aim of ground investigation is to assess the geotechnical, geological and hydrological risks to humans, property and the environment.
Altair GES is an independent geotechnical and geoenvironmental specialist. We provide site investigation, laboratory testing and professional consultancy services. Our work covers all aspects of soil engineering, contamination and environmental assessment, and land remediation and validation.
Our range of geotechnical engineering services includes:
site appraisal and site investigation design
geological and hydro-geological characterisation
excavation, earthworks and slope engineering
ground improvement and soil stabilisation
natural and man-made cavity and mine workings stabilisation
piling mat design, support systems and temporary works
foundation, basement and retaining wall engineering
subgrade testing for roads and external pavements
ground instrumentation and monitoring
directional drilling feasibility studies
subsidence engineering and underpinning advice
risk assessment and monitoring
A typical geotechnical report will include detailed exploratory logs and the results of in-situ and laboratory testing. The information is used to develop recommendations and design parameters for foundation and construction purposes. The contents of each geotechnical report are tailored to meet project specific needs. The report may contain discussion and advice for the type of foundations, retaining walls, earthworks and sub-grades required for the construction of the proposed man-made structures.