Geotechnical Investigation and Geophysical Survey

Superior Geotechnical Solutions for Reliable Foundations

Material Lab offers comprehensive geotechnical investigation services for architects, developers, consultants, and contractors. We perform surface explorations—using geologic mapping, geophysical methods, and photogrammetry—as well as subsurface investigations through targeted borehole drilling and sample collection. Our experienced team tailors laboratory testing programs to determine the soil and rock parameters essential for safe foundation design, using the right drilling techniques and equipment for each unique project.

Core Services

We at Material Lab provides wide range of geotechnical investigation services to the construction and allied industries. These includes but not limited to the following
Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

PT evaluates soil strength and compaction by driving a sampler into the ground. The results help determine foundation stability and bearing capacity for construction projects.

Rock Sampling (HQ, HWF, PWF)

We provide rock sampling using HQ, HWF, and PWF techniques to evaluate strength, composition, and durability. Our tests ensure accurate geotechnical data for foundation design and construction projects.

Disturbed Bulk Sampling

We collect bulk soil samples to analyze composition, compaction, and suitability for construction, ensuring compliance with geotechnical standards.

Cone Penetration Test (CPT)

CPT measures soil resistance to penetration, providing detailed information on soil strength, stratigraphy, and geotechnical properties for foundation design and construction planning.

Packer Test

The Packer Test measures the permeability of rock or soil by isolating sections and applying pressure. This helps assess water flow and support geotechnical evaluations for foundation and tunnel design.

In-Situ Permeability Test

This test measures the ability of soil or rock to transmit water under natural conditions. It provides crucial data for groundwater flow, drainage systems, and foundation design.

Plate Load Test

The Plate Load Test evaluates soil bearing capacity by applying a load to a steel plate and measuring settlement. It provides essential data for designing foundations and ensuring structural stability.

Cross-Hole Seismic Test

The Cross-Hole Seismic Test measures soil stiffness and seismic wave velocity by recording wave travel times between boreholes. It helps assess subsurface conditions and evaluate ground stability for construction projects.

Soil Electrical Resistivity

This test measures soil resistance to electrical currents, providing data on composition, moisture, and corrosivity, essential for foundation design and groundwater studies.

Groundwater Level Monitoring

We monitor groundwater levels to assess fluctuations and flow patterns, providing crucial data for drainage, foundation design, and environmental impact studies.

Multi-Analysis Surface Waves (MASW)

MASW uses surface waves to assess subsurface soil properties, such as stiffness and shear wave velocity, providing valuable data for geotechnical analysis and foundation design.

Downhole Seismic Test

The Downhole Seismic Test measures seismic wave velocity at different depths, providing insights into subsurface soil and rock properties for foundation design and geotechnical analysis.

Falling Head/Rising Head/Constant Head Permeability Test

These tests measure soil permeability by observing water flow through soil samples under different pressure conditions. They provide essential data for drainage, foundation design, and groundwater studies.

Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT)

ERT uses electrical currents to map subsurface resistivity, helping assess soil composition, groundwater conditions, and potential contamination for geotechnical and environmental studies.

Trusted Experts in Geotechnical Investigation for Road Construction

Material Lab is a trusted name among ground investigation contractors in the UAE, especially when it comes to large-scale infrastructure like highways, bridges, and airports.

Our geotechnical investigations for road construction are meticulously planned and executed to support safe and cost-effective road construction. Whether you’re planning a new alignment or reinforcing existing pavement layers, we deliver accurate data on soil bearing capacity, slope stability, and subgrade performance.

We incorporate rotary drilling, Standard Penetration Tests (SPT), Cone Penetration Tests (CPT), and packer permeability testing, all performed in line with the UAE regulations and international standards. This ensures your foundation designs are well-informed, safe, and structurally sound.

Deep Soil Investigation, Engineered for Construction Precision

Our geotechnical team specializes in soil investigation in construction, combining in-situ and laboratory testing for a complete picture of site conditions. We analyze soil properties like compaction, moisture, shear strength, and load-bearing behavior to identify potential issues before excavation begins.

 

Field operations are closely integrated with lab-based analysis, including triaxial compression, Proctor compaction, moisture-density relationships, and Atterberg limits. These insights help our clients minimize risks related to settlement, groundwater intrusion, or unstable subsurfaces during the early planning phase of construction projects.

 

Our soil reports not only interpret test results but also offer clear recommendations for foundation design, soil improvement, and site suitability.

UAE-Based Ground Investigation Company with End-to-End Capabilities

Material Lab is proudly counted among reliable ground investigation companies in the UAE, offering both geotechnical and geophysical services under one roof. From soil sampling and test pit excavation to full geophysical modeling, our capabilities support:

 

  • Road and bridge construction
  • Utility corridor planning
  • Industrial and tank farm developments
  • Urban infrastructure feasibility studies

 

Our dual-approach method, combining mechanical and geophysical data, ensures you get a 360° understanding of site behavior and risks.

Geophysical Survey Services That Go Beyond Boreholes

As one of the leading geophysical survey companies in the UAE, Material Lab provides advanced non-intrusive methods to map what lies beneath the surface without disturbing it. Our geophysical surveys reduce the number of boreholes needed and enhance subsurface visibility over large areas.

We utilize a wide range of technologies, including MASW, ReMi, Seismic Refraction Tomography, and Downhole Seismic to assess dynamic soil characteristics. These methods are particularly valuable in seismic zones or near sensitive infrastructure.

For groundwater detection and buried object mapping, we deploy Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR). These tools are ideal for pre-construction studies, tank farms, underground utilities, and forensic investigations.

Why Developers and Consultants Prefer Material Lab

Clients choose us because we’re more than a testing lab — we’re a strategic partner. Our engineers provide:

 

  • Site-specific solutions rather than off-the-shelf recommendations
  • Mobile drilling rigs and field testing that reduce project delays
  • Timely, high-confidence reports for design, tenders, and compliance
  • A team certified under ISO/IEC 17025 to guarantee data integrity and traceability

 

We speak the language of developers, consultants, and contractors, ensuring communication is as strong as our data.

Ready to Start Your Site Investigation?

Looking for reliable geotechnical survey companies or geophysical survey experts in the UAE? Material Lab offers complete investigation packages that combine speed, accuracy, and local regulatory compliance. Get in touch today to book a site assessment or request a custom proposal for your next construction or infrastructure project.