Three-dimensional Bearing Capacity of Footings on Sand over Clay
Introduction The bearing capacity of soil is one of the most critical factors in foundation design, particularly where sand overlies clay. While dense sand offers relatively high load-bearing strength and effective drainage, underlying clay soils are often weaker, compressible, and more prone to long-term settlement. This layered interaction poses challenges for shallow foundations, where the […]
What are the Factors Affecting the Choice of Foundation Type?
A building’s foundation forms the critical link between the structure and the earth. It supports the entire structure, distributes building loads into the soil beneath, and ensures long-term structural stability. Selecting the appropriate type of foundation depends on various factors, including soil conditions, structural demands, and cost. At Douglas Partners, we provide expert geotechnical engineering […]
How to interpret borehole data for foundation design?
Understanding how to interpret borehole data is essential when planning the design and construction of a reliable foundation. Borehole drilling plays a critical role in this process, as it provides engineers with first-hand information about the physical properties of subsurface materials. The quality and detail of data obtained from borehole drilling services allow for accurate […]
Sourcing sustainable groundwater supply where water is scarce
Why sustainable water supply in arid regions matters Groundwater accounts for approximately 20% of Australia’s currently accessible water resources. In some regions, even some major cities like Perth, more than 40% of our tap water is sourced from groundwater. However, this valuable resource is sometimes poorly understood and, as a result, inadequately managed. As urban […]
Reimagining Contaminated Sites Through a Circular Economy Lens
How Our Environmental Experts Are Advancing Industry Dialogue on Sustainable Remediation. At Douglas Partners, we’re proud that our colleagues are part of an evolving conversation about the future of contaminated land management—one that goes beyond compliance to explore resource recovery, sustainability, and long-term value creation. In their recently published article in ALGA’s e-chronicle, our colleagues […]
Effective Strategies for Soil and Groundwater Remediation: A Comprehensive Guide
Soil and groundwater contamination poses significant challenges to human health and the environment. As the three primary pillars of environmental remediation, soil and groundwater remediation are critical to mitigating contamination risks and restoring ecological balance. These practices address contaminants introduced through industrial spills, improper waste disposal, and site contamination, which otherwise leave behind harmful […]
Numerical modeling of ground behavior
The Role of Finite Element and Difference Methods. Why Ground Behaviour Modelling Matters In ground engineering and construction, one of the most complex and critical challenges is predicting how the soil conditions and ground behaviour will respond to loading and excavation. Numerical modelling techniques such as the Finite Element Method (FEM), Finite Difference Method (FDM), […]
Engineering Properties of Alluvial Soils
The modern cone penetration test provides a rapid and reliable method of profiling soil conditions, and is particularly suited to alluvial sediments such as encountered in many parts of the Newcastle area. Numerous empirical and theoretical methods have been developed to relate measured cone parameters to various engineering properties. This paper presents the results of […]
Could asbestos be present on your site?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral that was widely used in Australia in automotive, building, construction and other materials (e.g., textiles) for its superior heat-resistant, and insulating properties. The use of asbestos was banned in Australia in 2003, but given the wide use before this time, asbestos-containing materials (ACM) may still be present […]
Land contamination poses threat to residential development
Comprehensive Contaminated Land Risk Assessment and Site Investigations Addressing land contamination requires a structured approach to contaminated land risk assessment that ensures environmental safety and regulatory compliance. Our experts conduct preliminary risk assessments and detailed quantitative risk assessments to evaluate potential hazards associated with contaminated soil, groundwater contamination, and vapour intrusion. Utilising the latest tools, […]