Specialist geotechnical services
Specialised geotechnical services explore the dynamic, complex, and often hidden interactions between the earth and proposed engineered structures.
These services are essential for projects that face unique environmental conditions, require advanced sub-surface insight, or demand long-term resilience.
Our specialised geotechnical teams use their knowledge and experience of data, modelling, and field expertise to solve problems that lie deep underground or across vast landscapes.
Our specialised geotechnical services include:
Geophysics
Geophysics uses non-invasive techniques such as seismic refraction, ground-penetrating radar, and electrical resistivity to map subsurface conditions, along with supporting intrusive investigative data.
Akin to x-ray data, geophysics reveals buried voids, rock layers, faults, and moisture zones without excavation and is especially powerful for large-scale projects, archaeological sites, and environmentally sensitive areas.
Hydrogeology
Hydrogeology examines the movement, distribution, and quality of groundwater and is vital for managing dewatering systems, predicting seepage, and protecting against contamination.
Hydrogeological modelling helps engineers understand aquifer behaviour, assess recharge zones, and design sustainable water management strategies, especially within urban environments or when developing infrastructure close to water bodies.
Tailings management
Tailings are the byproducts of mining operations, often stored in engineered dams knowns as Tailings Storage Facilities (TSF). Tailings management ensures these facilities remain stable, safe, and environmentally compliant over long periods (decades) and services include regular audits, geotechnical monitoring, seepage control, slope stability analysis, and emergency preparedness. A failure in tailings containment can be catastrophic, which makes this service technically rigorous and critical.
Pavement engineering
Our pavement engineers combine geotechnical knowledge and materials science to design roadways, runways, and industrial surfaces that resist cracking, rutting, and settlement. They evaluate subgrade strength, drainage, and traffic loads to optimise pavement thickness and composition for durability, safety, and life-cycle cost efficiency.
Geotechnical earthquake engineering
Geotechnical earthquake engineering focusses on how ground motion from earthquakes affects structures and terrain. Our geotechnical engineers assess site-specific seismic hazards, liquefaction potential, and dynamic soil behaviour to design foundations and earthworks that can withstand shaking and ground deformation.
In high-risk earthquake zones or areas prone to seismic hazards, seismic services are essential for project integrity and successful outcomes.
Our specialised geotechnical services unlock a deeper understanding of ground behaviour to help project owners anticipate risks before they surface and then tailor solutions to the unique environment.
With rising climate challenges, urban expansion, and resource extraction, these services can be essential for successful project outcomes.
