Spatial Analysis and Interpretation of Geological and Geotechnical Database: A Case Study of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

In light of the pressing need for optimizing the cost and efforts involved in geotechnical investigations, this study presents a spatial analysis and interpretation of geological and geotechnical database of Riyadh City. By consolidating available data from geotechnical investigation reports of the study area, spatial maps have been developed focusing on subsoil types and rock quality designation. The application of the geostatistical analyst extension in ArcMap highlights significant spatial variation in subsoil characteristics, leading to a more accurate zonation of geotechnical profile. It is emphasized that among several interpolation methods, the inverse distance weighting emerges as a better approach for representing these variations, enabling the creation of detailed geotechnical zonation maps. Considering its importance, the data on groundwater table depths at various locations were also retrieved and visualized illustrating the frequency of presence of groundwater in bedrock (limestones) or in the surface soils. This insight can be instrumental in strategizing groundwater pumping for water supply as well as designing dewatering systems for potential excavations in the study area. The findings of this study indicate that a GIS-based overview of subsoil profiles allows the construction engineers to plan and execute projects more effectively, resulting in considerable savings in time and financial resources associated with site investigations as well as contributing the sustainable development of infrastructure projects in the region.