Deep Foundations: Types & Testing Methods for Structural Integrity & Geotechnical Load Bearing Capacity Evaluations 

Abstract: Deep Foundations are used to support all types of structures in various geotechnical conditions. Their engineering design includes structural, geotechnical, and constructability considerations; and their construction involves drilling, installations, driving, testing, and inspection. Testing and inspections are an integral part of the design process and construction work for verification, quality control, quality assurance, and foundation acceptance/certification. The presentation covers the main deep foundations types installations and testing methods for assessments of geotechnical load bearing capacity and structural integrity of driven piles, drilled shafts, and auger-cast piles. It includes wave equation analysis, dynamic load testing, bi-directional-static load testing, low-strain integrity testing, Cross-hole Sonic Logging, Thermal Integrity Profiling, and other testing and inspection methods and tools. Basic principles, capabilities and limitations of each method are discussed and illustrated with data from actual projects. 

Speaker: Mohamad Hussein, P.E., L.M. ASCE is Executive Vice President of GRL Engineers, Inc. and Executive Director of Global Industry Relations at Pile Dynamics, Inc., the world’s oldest and largest specialty deep foundations testing services and equipment manufacturing companies. In 40+ years he has consulted on more than 1,000 deep foundations projects around the globe. He organizes educational courses and seminars on deep foundations, including the American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE) Continuing Education Class: Deep Foundations Design, Construction, and Quality Control. Mohamad is a member of the deep foundations related committees of DFI, ASTM, PDCA, ASCE, and TRB. Chaired the Deep Foundations Committee of the ASCE’s Geo-Institute (2002-2009), and the PDCA’s Education Committee (2012-2013); and currently Chairs the PDCA’s Technical Committee. Mohamad is the recipient of several professional and industry awards and recognitions. Published over 60 technical papers, and co-edited 10 engineering books. He has achieved Expert level on the PDCA/PDI Dynamic Measurement and Analysis Proficiency Test and on the Foundation QA High Strain Dynamic Pile Testing examination and is a registered professional engineer in several States. Mr. Hussein conceived and Chaired the first International Foundations Congress and Equipment Expo (IFCEE-2009) that has been periodically repeated and is now an industry landmark.