Geotechnical monitoring is a key tool to ensure the safety and success of infrastructure and construction projects. But what does it really entail, and when is it essential? Find out in this article.

The collapse of the Carmel Tunnel in Barcelona became one of the most impactful events in recent underground construction history. This blog analyzes how the combination of structural monitoring, sensors, and advanced excavation techniques has changed the game in protecting heritage structures, such as the Sagrada Familia, from geotechnical risks.

Global attention to sustainability is pushing mining companies deeper underground in search of materials for clean energy generation. These underground mining operations will be crucial for our future as the availability of vital minerals like nickel and copper in surface mines declines. But underground mining comes with dangers, from the risk of collapses to the potential for asphyxiation from harmful gases. Therefore, it’s crucial for mining companies to implement advanced monitoring systems that help improve the overall risk management and safety of the mine workers.

Much of the U.S. civil infrastructure is now operating beyond its useful life, but due to the cost of replacing these resources, we must continue using them as long as it is safe to do so. This situation raises the question: how can we determine how long a structure will remain safe to use? One approach that is being utilized is Structural Health Monitoring (SHM). SHM measures how a structure is performing under service conditions and then compares the measured performance with an acceptable level of performance. The results can indicate how much useful life remains and help make decisions about upgrades to extend the structure’s life. Extending life can save money, maintain mobility, and minimize impacts on the community compared to demolition and replacement options. This article presents a historical case where SHM helped extend the useful life of an important highway structure and suggests how this same approach could be useful for evaluating the future performance of geotechnical assets.

Today, it’s almost impossible to escape the buzz surrounding technologies and concepts like Big Data, Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning (ML), and artificial intelligence (AI). These emerging technologies are already impacting many aspects of daily life, from “Hey Siri, what’s on my calendar today?” to “Alexa, turn on the kitchen lights.” We live in a world where the generation of information and data is growing exponentially. However, geotechnical engineers often take pride in working “on the ground,” and for many, these new technological concepts seem out of place or impractical. Yet, there is currently an explosion of innovations in the geotechnical construction field tied to the development of Big Data, ML, and IoT.

Sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a necessary and urgent transformation. While we often focus on solar panels, thermal insulation, or recycled materials, foundations—the base that holds everything up—are equally important in reducing the environmental impact of any construction project.
This blog dissects how new sustainable foundation practices are revolutionizing the construction sector. From reducing concrete use to reusable systems that minimize waste, let’s explore how to start building a greener future from the ground up.