Geophysics often is used to provide accurate subsurface information while minimizing surface disturbance.  Schnabel’s geophysicists work with you to get the information you need and present it in ways that make sense to you.  We work closely with our engineers and geologists to provide feasible, cost-effective solutions to your project challenges.

Selection of the appropriate geophysical methods is based on our many years of experience and depends on the project objectives and the site conditions. Examples of our geophysical applications include:

• Seismic refraction surveys to provide compressional wave velocities to estimate rippability and depth to bedrock
• Surface wave surveys (e.g., MASW) to provide subsurface shear wave velocity profiles for seismic/dynamic design of foundations and to image weak zones in the subsurface
• 2D and 3D resistivity imaging for karst and void studies
• Electromagnetic induction (EM) and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to locate buried waste, pipes, and underground storage tanks, as well as for characterization of karst.
• Self potential (SP) and resistivity surveys to map seepage paths in dams and reservoirs
• Resistivity and induced potential (IP) surveys to delineate municipal waste landfills
• GPR surveys to map steel reinforcing bars (rebar) in concrete, estimate asphalt and concrete thickness, and evaluate condition of concrete
• Borehole geophysical surveys to characterize bedrock fractures and obtain seismic velocity values
• Overwater geophysical surveys to investigate seepage, map sediment thickness, and locate sunken or buried objects