Assessment of deep compaction of the Péribonka dam foundation using “modal analysis of surface waves” (MASW)

Abstract

The construction of the Péribonka dam has involved deep compaction of its foundation using vibroflotation and dynamic compaction. Due to the presence of gravel and cobble-size particles, surface wave testing was used in addition to classical tests (cone penetration tests (CPTs) and standard penetration tests) for the assessment of compaction. More than 900 shear wave velocity (V s ) profiles down to bedrock or to a maximum depth of 50 m were determined using “modal analysis of surface waves” (MASW). The large number of V s profiles, before and after compaction, has allowed a good evaluation of the compaction performance and offered, at the same time, a unique opportunity to demonstrate the potential of surface waves in geotechnical investigations.