# Evaluation of Data Acquisition Areas in Geotechnical Seismic Tests: Insights from Field Applications

## TL;DR

This paper analyzes how different geotechnical seismic tests collect data, focusing on improving the accuracy of subsurface models and detecting defects using non-destructive methods.

## Contribution

The study introduces a method to predict SASW data acquisition areas as a function of depth, enhancing subsurface modeling accuracy.

## Key findings

- Analysis of 69 datasets from four sites predicted SASW data acquisition areas based on depth.
- A case study demonstrated SASW's effectiveness in detecting cavities near a dam spillway.
- The findings improve the interpretation of geotechnical seismic data for subsurface defect detection.

## Abstract

Geotechnical field testing evaluates soil, rock, and groundwater conditions in their natural states, offering critical information about subsurface properties such as the density, strength, permeability, and groundwater flow. These tests are essential in ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of civil engineering projects and are increasingly used for 3D geographical visualization and subsurface modeling. While point-based tests like the cone penetration test (CPT) and standard penetration test (SPT) are widely used, area-based methods such as the spectral analysis of surface waves (SASW) and electrical resistivity testing significantly enhance the accuracy of such models by providing broader coverage. Furthermore, these non-destructive techniques are particularly effective in identifying subsurface defects. This study focuses on analyzing the data acquisition areas of various field seismic tests, including SASW, downhole, crosshole, and suspension logging (PS logging). While other tests clearly define data acquisition areas based on their array paths, the SASW test posed challenges due to the complexity of data reconstruction. To address this, 69 datasets from four different sites were analyzed to predict the data acquisition areas for SASW as a function of depth. Moreover, a case study demonstrates the practical application of the SASW method in detecting cavities near a dam spillway. The findings of this research improve the understanding and interpretation of geotechnical seismic test data, enabling more precise geotechnical investigations and advancing the detection of subsurface defects using non-destructive methods.