Geophysics in the assessment of road materials borrow sites

Abstract

Geophysics plays an important role in geotechnical investigations for projects related to roadworks. Geophysical methods commonly employed are seismic refraction and electrical resistivity, and more recently terrain conductivity (EM). The Geotechnical Group of VICROADS routinely uses geophysics to investigate borrow material sites for roadworks projects. Problems may arise however through ineffective and incomplete communication between the investigating geoscientist and the end users of the information, i.e., the design engineer and especially the earthworks contractor.