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From page 1...
... 1 C H A P T E R 1 Introduction Purpose The primary purpose of geotechnical subsurface investigations in transportation projects is to collect data that will help transportation engineers and planners identify, assess, and address risks associated with subsurface conditions; select appropriate design parameters; and monitor performance during construction and operation phases of an asset's life cycle. Geotechnical risks generally pose the greatest risk to transportation projects because adverse subsurface conditions can have significant impacts on public safety, project schedules, life cycle costs, and environmental sustainability.
From page 2...
... 2 subsurface investigations performed for the AASHTO LRFD bridge design and design-building projects are also discussed. Chapter 3 presents processes for developing the scope for the subsurface investigations related to planning, designing, constructing, and operating transportation facilities including the following: • Identifying the types of data required to address the anticipated geotechnical risks and performance issues • Determining the required appropriate type of data • Selecting the most appropriate investigation equipment for the anticipated site conditions • Selecting the appropriate scope for geophysical testing and the appropriate geophysical methods • Selecting the appropriate scope for in situ testing and the appropriate in situ tests • Selecting the appropriate sampling equipment and borehole advancing methods for the anticipated subsurface conditions • Selecting the appropriate type of measurements to evaluate groundwater conditions • Selecting the appropriate scope for laboratory testing and the appropriate laboratory tests 1.2.2 Executing the Investigation Chapter 4 provides an overview of surface and borehole geophysical methods based on measuring, analyzing, and interpreting seismic, electrical, electromagnetic, gravitational, and magnetic fields.
From page 3...
... 3 • QA (e.g., sample identification and tracking; transportation, storage, and handling of samples; assessment of sample disturbance) • Index tests (e.g., particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, moisture content)
From page 4...
... 4 Appendix B provides guidelines for implementing a geotechnical instrumentation program for embankments, deep foundations, excavations in soil and rock, dewatering, earth retaining structures, tunnels, and grouting. Appendix B also highlights how geotechnical instrumentation can be used to resolve legal disputes and manage geotechnical assets.
From page 5...
... 5 Appendix H summarizes the resources available to assist geoprofessionals plan and execute subsurface investigations, analyze and interpret subsurface investigation data, present subsurface information, and manage subsurface investigations. The following topics are presented: • Technical manuals and reports • Geotechnical websites • Available training resources • References Key Complementary Resources To complement the information in this manual, geoprofessionals responsible for planning and executing subsurface explorations, and using the results for planning, design, construction, and asset management phases of a project should consult the following complementary resources that also provide comprehensive information on geotechnical site characterization: • AASHTO R 13 (ASTM D420)
From page 6...
... 6 Chapter 1 References AASHTO.

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