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The spectral analysis of surface waves (SASW) method is an in situ seismic technique that is used for evaluation of the stiffnesses of pavement systems at low strain levels. The stiffness of the surface layer can be determined by direct measurements in the field. Stiffnesses of the layers beneath the surface layer require forward modeling of SASW field data in order for the pavement profile to be obtained. The forward modeling process can be time consuming, especially if a three-dimensional model is used. A simplified procedure is proposed for determining an average value of the subgrade stiffness without performing forward modeling. Additionally, the simplified procedure can be used for determining the depth of shallow bedrock beneath pavement sites. The recommended procedure is based on SASW tests performed at 24 flexible pavement sections in the state of Texas. Parametric studies were also conducted with idealized rigid and flexible pavement profiles for the purpose of verifying the accuracy of the procedure and evaluating its limitations. An important point is that SASW measurements associated with the simplified procedure can be performed in conjunction with falling weight deflectometer (FWD) measurements using the drop weight as a source. The drop-weight source generates the frequency range required for SASW receiver spacings of 3, 6, and 9 m, which are recommended in the simplified procedure. The subgrade stiffness and depth to bedrock (if it exists) determined by the simplified procedure can be used as input parameters for enhancement of the backcalculation procedure associated with FWD measurements.

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The FHWA project "Dynamic Bridge Substructure Evaluation and Monitoring System" was conceived to use dynamic characteristics of the bridge substructure to determine the condition of the foundation and to identify the type of the underground substructure (deep or shallow foundation). The determination of the foundation condition will be used to quantify losses in foundation stiffness caused by seismic and scour events. The dynamic characteristics of natural frequencies and mode shapes are extracted from the experimental data and compared with the computer simulation results. The computer simulations are based on a 3-D finite element modeling with Super-Soil-Structural (SSS) elements. The stiffness and mass of these Super-Soil-Structural elements are indicative of the foundation conditions which may be quantified by structural parameter identification techniques.Discussed in this paper are experimental test setups and initial test results for three kinds of foundation conditions at the Trinity River Bridge in Liberty County, Texas.

Nondestructive methods based on propagation of sonic and ultrasonic waves are being used increasingly in the United States and internationally for forensic investigations of existing structures and for quality assurance of new construction. Of particular interest is the quality assurance of newly constructed drilled shaft foundations. Many state departments of transportation specify nondestructive testing of drilled shaft foundations, particularly for shafts drilled and placed under wet construction conditions. For quality assurance of drilled shaft foundations of bridges, the crosshole sonic logging (CSL) and sonic echo and impulse response (SE/IR) methods routinely are used. In the CSL method, access tubes are installed in the shaft before concrete placement. SE/IR measurements require that the top of the shaft be accessible after concrete placement. Proper test setups, specifications, and case studies are presented to illustrate the advantages and disadvantages of each of these methods. Also presented are recommendations for repair when a defect is identified in a drilled shaft foundation. The CSL method is more effective for locating defects. CSL measurements are effective for determining anomalies and defects between two access tubes. However, an accurate image of the defect cannot be determined from a CSL test alone. The crosshole tomography (CT) method uses multiple CSL logs with varying receiver locations to produce a two-dimensional image of the defect. The CT method is discussed and a dataset obtained from a drilled shaft foundation is presented. CT data collection and analysis require more time than the CSL method, and the CT method is used only for critical drilled shaft foundations.