Development of regulations for non-destructive testing of pile foundations

Introduction. Highly intensive work on the construction of pile foundations requires a well-established system of testing and quality control. The main non-destructive methods of technical geophysics used to monitor the integrity of concrete and depth of piles is sufficiently well studied from both a scientific and practical point of view. The transition to a parametric standardization system established a number of provisions for the application of these methods in national standards. Low strain impact testing methods and crosshole sonic logging received their own State Standard R 71039 and State Standard R 72171 standards; thermal integrity profiling was included in broad-scope State Standard R 71733. The simultaneous release of several regulatory documents will expand the field of geophysical activity due to the ability of performing complex work.

Aim. To inform test engineers, designers, and employees of supervisory organizations about the current state of regulatory framework on non-destructive testing of pile foundations.

Materials and methods. The paper describes a set of geophysical methods used to monitor the integrity and length of pile foundations. The methods developed sufficiently for including in regulatory documents are indicated.

Results. The performed work systematizes the information on the current state of regulatory framework on the use of geophysical methods for non-destructive testing of piles. The content of standards for low strain impact, crosshole sonic logging, and thermal integrity profiling testing is used to demonstrate possible directions for regulating methods of technical geophysics.

Conclusions. The main geophysical methods used in non-destructive testing of pile foundations have now received the necessary regulation in national standards. The possibility of accumulating information on the capabilities and limitations of auxiliary examination methods is provided. The prospects for developing regulatory frameworks lie in the further harmonization of standards with current codes and State Standards, including the analysis of empirical data to correct documents during future revisions.

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