Survey & Soil Investigation

Geophysical Survey

Capital Surveys offers a comprehensive range of geophysical surveying and data interpretation services to support geotechnical, civil engineering, and infrastructure projects. Our geophysical methods are widely used to evaluate the engineering properties of soils and bedrock, providing critical input for the design of foundations, piles, earthworks, and underground structures.

All surveys are executed by highly trained field crews, with quality control, processing, and interpretation performed by an experienced team of geophysicists with extensive Middle East regional expertise. By combining state-of-the-art equipment, rigorous QA/QC procedures, and advanced inversion software, Capital Surveys delivers accurate, reliable, and actionable subsurface insights.

Our effectiveness is driven by a commitment to innovation, quality, efficiency, and safety on every project.

Our Geophysical Survey Capabilities
  • Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW)

MASW is a seismic geophysical method used to measure shear-wave velocity (Vs) profiles, enabling accurate assessment of subsurface layering, soil stiffness, and bedrock depth.

The technique analyzes the dispersion characteristics of surface waves—typically Rayleigh waves—recorded by an array of geophones. Seismic energy may be generated using an active source (e.g., sledgehammer) or from passive ambient noise such as traffic and machinery.

MASW deliverables include:

  • 1D and 2D shear-wave velocity profiles

  • Soil and rock stiffness characterization

  • Mapping of subsurface stratigraphy

  • Identification of low-velocity layers

  • Bedrock depth and topography (including below the water table)

MASW is widely used for seismic site classification, foundation design, and geotechnical investigations.

  • Crosshole & Downhole Seismic Surveys

Crosshole Seismic (CS) and Downhole Seismic (DS) surveys are performed to measure in-situ shear (Vs) and compression wave (Vp) velocities of soils and rock as a function of depth.

These parameters are essential for:

  • Earthquake and seismic response analysis

  • Liquefaction potential assessments

  • Dynamic machine foundation design

  • Site development and infrastructure planning

Derived engineering properties include:

  • Poisson’s ratio

  • Shear modulus and Young’s modulus

  • Material damping characteristics

CS surveys require a minimum of two boreholes, while DS surveys are conducted using a single borehole, offering flexibility based on site conditions and project requirements.

  • Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT)

Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) is a near-surface geophysical technique that measures subsurface resistivity variations using controlled direct current.

Current is introduced into the ground through two electrodes, while voltage differences are measured using additional electrode pairs. Various electrode array configurations are employed to capture both lateral and vertical resistivity variations.

ERT is particularly effective for:

  • Mapping soil lithology (e.g., clay, sand, gravel)

  • Identifying groundwater presence and saturation zones

  • Detecting fracture zones and voids

  • Locating high-salinity areas and potential contamination

  • Imaging cavities, karst features, and sinkholes

ERT surveys can produce 1D, 2D, and 3D subsurface models, making it a powerful tool for complex geological environments.

  • Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is a non-intrusive geophysical method that uses high-frequency radar pulses to image shallow subsurface features.

Capital Surveys provides GPR-based Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) services for accurate detection and mapping of:

  • Underground utilities (pipes, cables, ducts)

     

  • Reinforced concrete structures

     

  • Asphalt and pavement layers

     

  • Metallic and non-metallic objects

     

  • Masonry and structural elements

     

The depth of investigation depends on antenna frequency, ground conditions, soil composition, and target type. GPR is ideal for urban environments, active construction sites, and areas where excavation is not feasible.

Why Choose Capital Surveys for Geophysical Investigations?
  • Advanced geophysical instrumentation and software

  • Experienced geophysicists with regional expertise

  • High-quality data acquisition and interpretation

  • Integrated solutions for geotechnical and engineering design

  • Safe, efficient, and non-destructive survey methodologies

Reliable Subsurface Intelligence with Capital Surveys

Capital Surveys delivers dependable geophysical survey solutions that reduce uncertainty, mitigate risk, and support informed engineering decisions. From foundation design to infrastructure development, our services provide the subsurface clarity your projects demand.