A Workflow for Combining Geophysical and Geotechnical Investigations: More Coverage, Better Results, Faster Acquisitions

Summary As our built environment continues to expand, it is crucial to gather subsurface data with greater efficiency and precision, and to draw from as many data sources as feasible. This is essential both to avoid impacting existing infrastructure and to obtain the maximum amount of information before construction, especially in more challenging or high-risk environments. Due to this, there is a need to strengthen the collaboration between geophysics and geotechnical engineering, as combined investigations have repeatedly demonstrated their effectiveness in providing the most reliable foundation for planning. To promote the broader use of geophysical methods amongst geotechnical workers, it is essential to enhance the understanding of not only the benefits but also the limitations and uncertainties associated with different techniques. Key to this, is attempting to create a ‘standard’ workflow for operators and decision-makers, which includes both geophysical and geotechnical investigation techniques, to ensure they can obtain the best possible understanding of the subsurface every time they embark upon a new development project.