Applied Research

GCG are committed to implementing state-of-the-art knowledge in our day to day work, because this allows us to develop innovative and progressive solutions for our Clients. For this reason we work hard to maintain strong academic links and ties with international geotechnical research organisations, and have supported numerous research projects over the years.

These are exemplified by the numerical analysis and site investigation techniques we have helped to develop and pioneer, and which are now routinely implemented throughout the industry, such as non-linear soil stiffness modelling and the adoption of appropriate  soil sampling techniques. And also by other construction activities such as compensation grouting, the successful use of which GCG helped to introduce to the UK during the Jubilee Line Extension project in London, to protect Big Ben from tunnelling induced movements.

Current research activities in which GCG is actively involved include:

• Ongoing development and implementation of thermodynamic numerical modelling;
• Research into the deposition and structural development of the Harwich Formation;
• The Pile Soil Analysis (PISA) project, aiming to investigate and develop the design methodology for offshore wind turbine monopile foundations, particularly in relation to lateral loading.

In addition to these activites, GCG are members of the Association of Geotechnical & Geoenvironmental Specialists, AGS, and are core members of  the Construction Industry Research and Information Association, CIRIA. Our members and associates  regularly participate in workshops, and are actively involved in developing industry best practice guidance for geotechnical issues.