Soil and Rock Sampling
The collection of representative subsurface samples is key to the development of relevant and accurate geotechnical evaluations and assessments. There are a wide variety of sampling methods available, and each is suited to a particular exploration method(s) and information goals. Oftentimes, multiple sampling methods will be utilized for a given project depending upon the nature of the subsurface materials and the scope of the proposed design. We have extensive experience with several common geotechnical sampling methods, and we have summarized the general purpose and procedure for each method and some their individual pros and cons.
Backpack Drilling
Well-suited to remote, greenfield property exploration, our backpack drill programs are ideal for near-surface initial sampling (soil or rock) and geologic mapping.
- Lightweight/man-portable diamond core drill
- Fast penetrating to depths of up to 5m (16ft). Drillhole depth to 10m (32 ft) under ideal conditions.
- 41mm hole diamter (36mm BQ core) or 25mm hole diameter (15mm core)
- Minimal footprint disturbance
- No permitting requirements in most jurisdictions
- Can replace trenching in inaccessible areas
- Penetrate lacustrine clays to sample bedrock-related soils below
- Build overburden or bedrock stratigraphy
- Test depth to bedrock and collect bedrock sample
- Collect structural data
- Collect soil or rock samples through swamps
- Follow up on high-grade rock samples
- Prove continuity of veins