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Engineering Geophysics

RoadScan™
RoadScan non-destructive, high-speed ground penetrating radar system
Seismic refraction profile - Click image for larger view. Seismic refraction profile based upon the generalized reciprocal method (GRM)
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3-D ERI of bedrock surface showing karst - Click image for larger view.
3-D ERI of bedrock surface showing karst conditions
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MASW in use on major Interstate
MASW in use on major Interstate
Blue Route shear wave profile
Shear wave velocity profile along an interstate
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Quantum Geophysics' experienced team provides cost-effective solutions to engineering projects. Since our founding in 1990, we have performed a broad range of successful geophysical investigations throughout the United States.

Quantum Geophysics uses multi-channel analysis of surface waves (MASW) to identify subsurface conditions. MASW is a relatively new, non-invasive, non-destructive, continuous profiling method that can explore to depths upwards of 100 feet, depending on the seismic source and site conditions. Quantum also utilizes MASW to determine seismic site classification. MASW is more cost-effective than traditional means of determining site class – drilling – and can often elevate a site to a more favorable classification than drilling, thereby reducing construction cost.

MASW has been successfully used in urban settings where traffic noise and 60 hertz noise from electrical lines make seismic refraction ineffective where buried piping impacts electrical resistivity data. Because MASW provides a continuous profile of the subsurface, it is ideal for exploring long, narrow easements and alignments, such as roads, dams, levees, and utility corridors.
Read more about MASW (PDF: 159KB)
View the MASW video

Quantum Geophysics uses RoadScan™ to quickly determine pavement layer thickness and perform sub-base evaluations with data densities not obtainable by other labor-intensive methods. RoadScan is a non-destructive, high-speed ground penetrating radar (GPR) system that can continuously profile pavement and sub-base layer thicknesses at highway speeds. This eliminates the need for lane closures, providing a safe working environment. RoadScan is the most state-of-the-art and cutting-edge pavement analysis system available.
Read more about RoadScan™ (PDF: 310KB)

Quantum Geophysics supports sinkhole remediation by using 3-D electrical resistivity imaging (3-D ERI) to identify the location of sinkhole throats. Throats are small openings in the top of rock that allow soils to slough into large voids and cavities. Remediation generally entails plugging the throat. However, sinkhole throats are inherently unpredictable and are not always in the footprint of sinkholes. Trying to find them via drilling can be a hit-or-miss proposition. 3-D ERI can locate throats and other bedrock surface features because the method provides robust spatial coverage.
Read more about 3-D ERI (PDF: 301KB)

Engineering geophysics allow us to locate, identify and/or evaluate:

View a complete list of Quantum Geophysics' services on the About Us page.