Laboratory Testing

Geotechnical Observations undertake routine and advanced laboratory testing of soil. Our principal areas of expertise are in the measurement of soil suction and the measurement of small strain stiffness.

You can deliver samples directly to our office in Egham or we can collect them from your site.

Routine tests

Geotechnical Observations have equipment for the routine classification (eg; plasticity) and description of soil. We can also take digital photographs of soil samples. Other testing can be arranged.

Soil suction

Measurements of soil suction up to 1500 kPa can be routinely made using the suction probe apparatus. Laboratory measurements of soil suction can be used in the assessment of sample quality, in the estimation of in situ stress and K₀, in the investigation of desiccation and for the assessment of compaction. Samples for testing can be delivered direct to our laboratory. Alternatively our engineers can make on-site measurements using portable equipment.

Soil stiffness

Small strain stiffness (G_max) can be measured using bender elements. G_max can be used in the assessment of sample quality and in finite element analyses of geotechnical structures. Samples for testing should be carefully wrapped using alternate layers of food-wrap, aluminium foil and paraffin wax. They should then be transported directly to our laboratory as carefully as possible.

Geotechnical Observations Limited
Brunel Science Centre
Coopers Hill Lane, Egham
Surrey, TW20 0JZ, United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0)1784 473733
Fax: +44 (0)1784 473734
Email: info@geo-observations.com
Web: www.geo-observations.com