EMS Geotech have equipment and experienced geotechnical engineers able to undertake various forms of in-situ strength testing. In-situ strength testing is typically recommended or required during project planning, temporary works or earthworks verification.

EMS offer a range of in-situ strength testing including:

• CBR (California Bearing Ratio) - Testing by Plate Load Method

• Rapid in-situ CBR values by MEXE Cone Soil Assessment Cone Penetrometer (SACP)

• Approximate CBR Profiles by TRL (Formerly Transport Research Laboratory), Dynamic Cone Penetration (DCP) tests

Such tests are typically used to determine the physical properties of formations or subgrades, placed capping layers and sub-base.

A CBR Test works by testing the pressure required to penetrate a soil sample with a plunger of the standard area and measuring this.

This measurement is divided by the pressure needed to achieve an equal penetration on a standard, high quality crushed rock material. The harder the surface, the higher the CBR value.

The CBR test can be carried out on soils with a maximum particle size of 20mm. Tests are most usually undertaken at surface level or at depths of between 500-1000m, most commonly in 20-30mm intervals along the proposed construction centreline.

On a typical site with prepared surfaces, multiple CBR tests are usually undertaken in a day by a single operator. Provisional results are often available on site.

A CBR Test works by testing the pressure required to penetrate a soil sample with a plunger of the standard area and measuring this.EMS Geotech can provide CBR tests by Plate Load method. On request EMS Geotech can provide a quick indicative assessment of CBR profile by TRL (Formerly Transport Research Laboratory), Dynamic Cone Penetration (DCP) test or MEXE Cone Soil Assessment Cone Penetrometer (SACP) apparatus.

The TRL DCP is generally suitable for granular mixed soils and the SACP is suitable for fine grained soils.

On request EMS Geotech are also able to provide UKAS accredited tests in accordance with BS1377-9:1900 AND IAN73/06 via a specialist testing laboratory.

EMS Geotech can also provide preliminary recommendations regarding the type and depth of foundation, bearing capacity of underlying soils and settlements to aid with design.