Nondestructive Testing of Deep Foundations


Preface

Both authors of this book have been involved in the development and application of

nondestructive test techniques for deep foundations for a very large part of their lives

and have worked in many parts of the world. In doing so, they have concurrently

observed and contributed to improvements in deep foundation design, construction,

inspection and testing techniques, and developments in construction equipment and

materials. As in all industries where advances occur almost daily, and are driven by

a combination of technological interest and financial need, occasional mistakes are

made, and today’s miracle solution sometimes becomes tomorrow’s lesson for the

hasty.






Like all other forms of nondestructive or non-invasive testing, nondestructive testing

of deep foundations is the subject of many myths and legends. In reality, every

test method has specific capabilities and limitations that govern the usefulness of the

test results. While every test technique in commercial use has proven capabilities, the

results of any test used in the wrong circumstances will, at best, be inconclusive, and

at worst may be downright misleading.

The initial aim of this book was to provide a starting point and logical guide for

geotechnical and/or structural engineering students with an interest in deep foundations

and a useful reference for practicing professionals who have never been exposed

to testing techniques for deep foundations, but, through no fault of their own, suddenly

find themselves needing to specify or hire such testing services. However, as the book

evolved, so did the authors’ appreciation of the common misconceptions in the deep

foundations industry.


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