Analyzing soil electrical and strength parameters using geophysical and geotechnical methods in Sungai Batu, Kedah

Abstract

Engineering structures require strong foundations to prevent hazards occur due to lack of understanding the subsurface soil. Geophysical and geotechnical surveys were conducted in Sungai Batu, Kedah to determine the effectiveness of correlating electrical parameters for vertical resolution and to evaluate soil strength by integrating Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Standard Penetration Test (SPT). Results from ERT and GPR showed heterogeneity in the subsurface stratigraphy from surface to 8.6 m depth. The inversion model showed two zones of saturated ( 150 Ωm). The integration of ERT, GPR and SPT is applied at the borehole position which is at distance of 9.5 m of the survey line. The resistivity values at distance of 9.5 m range from 7 – 30 Ωm due to soil formed by sedimentation originated from fluvial system (sandy clay and clay). Calculated electrical conductivity values from GPR radargram coincide and in range with values from ERT. At ...