Different types of soil tests may use both undisturbed or refined soil samples.
Geotechnical investigation is used to obtain information about the properties of soil, rock and substrate around an area, usually in preparation to design foundations, prepare soil amendments or construct other earthworks. In many cases, the same professionals -- known as soil scientists -- will conduct each aspect of the investigation, though in some cases drillers or borers will handle sensitive boring technology while soil scientists conduct the appropriate testing.
Soil Sampling
Most soil scientists conduct soil sampling using basic mechanisms -- sometimes as basic as a shovel, trowel and paper bag -- simply to gather enough of the surface soil to test and investigate its properties. Soil scientist usually conduct such soil samples to gauge the potential productivity of farmland. Most soil samples are considered "disturbed," meaning the stratification and structure of the soil is not a good representative of on-site conditions.
Soil Boring
Soil boring is a highly specialized type of soil sampling, and involves using a pneumatic or piston drill to collect deep samples of the soil, rock and lower substrates. Most soil boring is Most borers or drillers perform soil boring with narrow-diameter tubes, which are punched or pushed through the soil until the tube has been filled with an appropriate amount of sampling material. Boring is a way to get undisturbed soil samples -- those considered a very good indicator of on-site conditions.
Laboratory Testing
Laboratory testing of soil assesses its content -- ascertaining various minerals and its overall qualities. Soil scientists may perform many specific types of tests. Some examples involve finding the California bearing ratio to determine if soil has enough aggregates to be used as a road subgrade. Water content tests examine the capability of the soil to absorb and hold moisture.
In Situ Testing
In situ testing involves standard penetration tests (SPT) and cone penetration tests (CPT), which send probes beneath the soil surface to gather on-site data concerning the soil, groundwater, soil compaction, resistance and pressure and in some cases soil content. Different testing probes are manufactured for different soil types and testing functions, and some even gather soil samples while performing these tests.
Tags: soil samples, Most soil, on-site conditions, penetration tests, scientists conduct
