Evaluating Site Investigation Quality using GIS and Geostatistics
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Volume 128, Issue 6
Abstract
Current practice in the characterization of subsurface conditions usually involves the interpretation of data from laboratory and in-situ tests using deterministic analysis methods. These deterministic methods do not reflect the uncertainty inherently associated with the estimation of geotechnical parameters. In addition there are no commonly accepted methods for evaluation of the quality of the investigation or estimation of the impact of additional sampling in a quantitative manner. In this paper the development and implementation of a performance-based investigation and monitoring approach for assessing the quality, or thoroughness, of site investigation and monitoring activities in a quantitative, spatially sensitive manner is described. Thoroughness images are based on probability values generated using geostatistics and are designed to enable users to better assess the likelihood that design or regulatory criteria will be satisfied. This approach has been implemented within a geographic information system and was evaluated using an existing geotechnical data set.
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Published In
Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 128 • Issue 6 • June 2002
Pages: 451 - 461
Copyright
Copyright © 2002 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jun 22, 2000
Accepted: Nov 27, 2001
Published online: May 15, 2002
Published in print: Jun 2002
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