In Situ Geotechnical Tests -
Field Testing and Monitoring Services

In situ testing (also known as field testing) provides a complementary means of determining ground conditions and material parameters to supplement testing carried out by sampling and laboratory testing.

The approach has advantages where recovery of undisturbed samples is problematic (eg sands and gravels), and where the ground behaviour may be controlled by structure (eg bedding and discontinuities) on a larger scale than visible in sampling. In situ testing is also used to obtain information for highways pavement design and for earthworks construction validation.

In situ tests are generally quicker to perform and often provide a depth profile rather than just a single result. SOCOTEC offer a wide variety of test types which may be performed within boreholes and installations, and as standalone activities on the surface and intrusively.