Infrared image implication for non-destructive geotechnical investigation method

Thermal diffusion process in soils reflects the engineering characteristics of soil components and internal structures. This study proposes a non-contact and non-destructive geotechnical investigation method using the surface temperature changes to estimate the stratifications of the underground. Infrared images taken on the soil surface and thermocouples are used to measure the surface temperature changes with time. Experimental and numerical test results on two layered deposits made of dry sand and rock show that different soil stratification promotes the different surface temperature change even under the same heating or cooling condition and the surface temperature changes can be used to estimate the thickness of dry soil layer up to about 10cm. © 2015 ejge.