MASW Survey to Map Soil Layers and Rock Profiles in a Construction Site

Abstract

Mapping and identification of soil layers and rock profiles is an essential task in any geotechnical engineering project. Conventionally, these are accomplished by conducting standard penetration test (SPT), which are time consuming, expensive and requires skilled workmanship for execution. On the other hand, development of various geophysical methods like Spectral Analysis of Surface Waves (SASW), Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW), etc. is very much helpful to map and identify the soil and rock profiles as well as the in situ dynamic properties. MASW is a seismic method that uses surface waves to estimate shear wave velocities (Vs). The main motivation behind this experimental study is to study the efficacy of MASW survey for delineating the soil layers and rock profiles. In addition to that, measurement of Vs profiles at various depths in a construction site is also conducted. The results of MASW survey are then cross-verified with SPT profiles.