Geotechnical Underground Sensing and Monitoring

The use of field instrumentation for condition assessment of geo-structures or to monitor the on-site behavior of foundations, soils, embankments, and structures is being required more and more on many projects. This chapter introduces the most commonly used sensors employed for monitoring of underground geomechanics. By combining elements from civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering together with some management concepts in a coherent modular format. The chapter begins with measurement of strain, since strain is often employed for monitoring a variety of common geotechnical processes. Next measurement of load, pressure, displacement, and tilt is discussed. The chapter ends with a discussion of common measurement errors and typical sensor specifications.