Calculating Earthwork Factors Using Seismic Velocities: Fid-Bau Portal

Calculating Earthwork Factors Using Seismic Velocities

E. Stephens

This study was made for the purpose of developing an empirical correlation between the seismic velocity of several rock materials and their earthwork factors. Two new curves were developed for volcanic rocks; one for hard flow rock, and one for pyroclastics. Three highway projects constructed through sedimentary rocks were studied to determine if their earthwork factors could be correctly determined from the curve developed by a previous research study. The factors from construction on two of these projects were lower than factors estimated from the curve. The factor from the third project was higher than the curve indicated it should be. The curve was adjusted slightly to give a reasonable fit with the two projects plus the original study project. The third project was considered to represent a different material condition, and a new curve was developed that applied only to it. A construction project through granitic rock was also studied to determine if it would yield a factor that could be correctly determined from the curve developed by the original study. The field earthwork factor from this project did agree with that predicted by the curve.