Geophysics Services
Douglas Partners have been providing innovative geophysical solutions to our clients for more than 30 years, often where conventional intrusive methods are impractical or costly.
Our team of highly experienced Geophysicists specialise in the application of a broad range of techniques for geotechnical, environmental and groundwater investigations.
Geophysics may be used during investigation, construction and remedial phases of projects. Projects can vary from general site assessment, where bulk information of the site subsurface permits cost effective selection of targets for further investigation, to measurement of a particular site characteristic.
Add-Ons
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Fast turnaround and accurate test results
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Reliable service and easy to work with
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Conduct our business with integrity
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Full geotechnical and groundwater engineering support
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Tender preparation service
Seismic
Douglas Partners has been conducting seismic surveys across Australia and abroad for over 30 years.
Seismic Refraction
Seismic refraction is commonly used in to characterise rock strength, depth and thicknesses of layers for excavation planning.
Example:
Seismic Refraction Profiling along a proposed section of highway. Seismic velocities from the profile were used to estimate excavatability.
Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW)
MASW is commonly used in Geotechnical investigations to locate zones of low soil compaction, mapping depth to bedrock, estimating shear moduli and site classification.
Example:
MASW profiling for site classification based on shear wave velocity.
Vibration Monitoring
Vibration Monitoring is often required on building and infrastructure projects of all sizes, usually where rock excavation, piling or vibratory compaction is planned near potentially affected buildings or infrastructure.
Vibration Monitoring is often a condition of DA approvals and/or required by owners of underground assets such as services, rail tunnels and other infrastructure. With the increasing tendency towards litigation many clients use our monitoring services to help safeguard against possible claims made by neighbours and asset owners relating to vibration damage.
At Douglas Partners, vibration monitoring is undertaken by experienced Geophysicists and Geotechnical engineers using regularly calibrated equipment, giving all stakeholders confidence in the accuracy of recorded vibration levels and the integrity of our reporting and advice.
Electrical Resistivity Imaging & Sounding
Resistivity Imaging can provide cost effective, high resolution subsurface imaging, where sufficient contrast exists between the electrical properties of subsurface materials.
This technique has been successfully applied by Douglas Partners in a wide variety of environments. Typical applications include:
- Layer mapping
- Depth to bedrock
- Landfill Investigations
- Void mapping
- Groundwater and contamination investigations
Example 1:
Mapping the continuity and thickness of a clay layer along a proposed highway route was considered necessary to help assess the likelihood of future subsidence. The models showed a strong correlation with nearby boreholes.
Mapping a landfill pit boundary was required for a proposed development. Resistivity contrasts between the landfill material and the underlying geology made delineation of the landfill boundary and thickness possible.
Vertical Electrical Soundings provide a 1D electrical profile of the subsurface, commonly used in earthing design for lightning protection, electrical substations, power lines and pipelines.
Ground Penetrating Radar
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) has gained widespread acceptance across a number of industries, in part due to the broad uptake by service locators and concrete scanners. However, implementation of GPR for more complex and detailed investigations requires specialist geophysical expertise.
A good understanding of how soil conditions, survey design and data processing affect survey outcomes is vital for its successful implementation. Douglas Partners’ Geophysicists have successfully implemented 2D and 3D GPR for a wide variety of applications,
such as:
- Void mapping
- Pavement thickness assessment
- Depth to bedrock
- Coastal geology investigations
- Groundwater
- Structural engineering investigations
- Grave-site detection and mapping
- Archaeology
Ground Conductivity Mapping
Rapid acquisition is made possible using custom vehicle setups (using a 4WD or ATV). Ground conductivity and position data are logged continuously in real-time whilst driving, making it possible to cover many hectares in one day.
Applications for conductivity mapping include:
- Salinity Mapping
- Soil thickness and depth to bedrock
- Landfill mapping
- Contamination plume mapping
- Soil mapping
Other Geophysical Methods
Douglas Partners employs a variety of geophysical methods to investigate the subsurface.
- Marine Geophysics – seismic reflection and refraction, sonar, magnetics
- Multi-channel analysis of surface waves
- Downhole p- and s- wave and CPT seismic profiling
- Cross-hole 2D seismic imaging
- Geophysical borehole logging
- Electromagnetics and Induced Polarisation
- Gravity and Magnetic
FAQs
1. What exactly is geophysical consulting, and how can it benefit my project?
Geophysical consulting involves using a range of non-invasive geophysical techniques to investigate and analyse the subsurface characteristics of a project site. Common methods include seismic reflection and refraction surveys, ground-penetrating radar (GPR), electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), electromagnetic (EM) surveys, and magnetometry. These techniques allow for the collection of detailed subsurface data without the need for extensive drilling or excavation, providing critical insights for decision-making, risk management, and project planning.
2. What types of projects do geophysical consultants work on?
Geophysical consultants apply their expertise across a broad spectrum of projects, including environmental assessments, groundwater investigations, and geotechnical evaluations. This versatility enables them to contribute to a variety of fields, such as construction, mining, and environmental management.
3. How do I know if my project requires the services of a geophysical consultant?
If your project involves understanding subsurface conditions, especially where invasive techniques are impractical, geophysical consulting services may be necessary. These geophysical services are vital for site assessments, detailed investigations of specific areas, and during the construction and remedial phases of a project.
4. How do geophysical consultants interpret the data they collect, and how accurate are their interpretations?
Geophysical consultants use advanced techniques and technologies to interpret the data collected from the field. The accuracy of their interpretations is enhanced by their extensive experience and specialisation in different geophysical methods, ensuring reliable results for project planning and decision-making.
5. How much do geophysical consulting services typically cost, and what factors influence pricing?
The cost of geophysical consulting services varies depending on the project’s scope, the techniques used, and the specific requirements of the site. Factors such as the area size, data complexity, and the level of detail needed in the reports can influence the overall pricing.
6. Can geophysical consultants assist with ongoing monitoring or maintenance of my project site after the initial survey is complete?
Yes, geophysical services provide ongoing monitoring and maintenance services for project sites. This includes continuous monitoring of conditions using various geophysical methods, which is crucial for projects involving construction and infrastructure in sensitive environments.
7. What Is the Purpose of Vibration Monitoring in Construction?
Vibration monitoring in construction helps manage and mitigate the impact of construction activities on surrounding structures and environments. It is crucial for projects involving piling, heavy machinery and blasting operations, as it ensures compliance with safety regulations and helps prevent potential damage to nearby structures and infrastructures.
