Ground movement prediction and risk assessment | Geotechnics

Expertise Applied geomorphology Applied research and development Coastal geomorphology Coastal management Contaminated land services Due diligence Geotechnical advice Geotechnical asset management Geotechnical information management Ground movement prediction and risk assessment Information technology and innovative approach Infrastructure management Remedial earthworks design Risk assessment Site investigation Slope management and vegetation Sub structures Sustainable geotechnics Terrain evaluation Value and risk Value management and value engineering Techniques

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Boston Central Artery

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Delhi Metro

Heathrow ART

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Boston C-AT Instrumentation

Prediction in practice

Karachaganak Processing Complex

Key ground work for this project

Heathrow ExpressMott MacDonald has a strong record with the prediction and assessment of ground movements resulting from underground excavation. We have taken a prominent role in assessment and research into excavation induced movement and have been responsible for drafting major reports on the subject.

This work draws together the empirical formulae generally used to predict ground movements with case history studies, and proposes the risk classification related to maximum slope and maximum settlement. This, with our practical experience in this field forms the basis of our approach to:

ground movement prediction
risk classification
building/structure response
preventative action
defining limits of deflection and deformation

Settlment contour predictionsThe effect of sub-surface excavation by tunnelling or cut and cover construction on adjacent structures can involve extremely complex and time dependent modes of soil/structure interaction. While the assessment procedures for ‘greenfield’ sites are now well established, predicting the interaction effects of existing foundations and structures requires considerable judgement. Mott MacDonald has ‘state-of-the-art’ experience and expertise in analytical techniques for the prediction of ground movements. This, together with a large data bank of case records, provides the basis for comprehensive assessments of potential risks of damage to adjacent structures. A strategy of monitoring and protective measures is then developed to minimise the potential risk or damage due to construction related ground movements.

We have recently completed the development of further in-house software which results in the production of building damage assessments associated with settlement from tunnelling, vertical shafts and open cut excavation (in any combination and orientation).