In Situ Estimate of Shear Wave Velocity Using Borehole Spectral Analysis of Surface Waves Tool

Abstract

In situ field testing has been performed over the past several years at a silty sand site in Austin, Tex. using the borehole spectral analysis of surface waves (SASW) tool to develop the technique and assess the validity of the method. The borehole SASW tool is an inflatable pressuremeterlike device that allows surface wave measurements to be performed along the wall of an uncased borehole while varying the in situ states of stress. Field results demonstrate the applicability of borehole SASW testing as a method to characterize soil sites and provide information about in situ shear wave velocity and the relationship between shear wave velocity and state of stress. Results from a borehole SASW test conducted at the Austin site are presented herein to demonstrate the applicability and validity of the method.