An Enhanced Soil Characterization Study Supported by Resistivity Data Processing and Standard Penetration Test

The soil characterization is one of the major prerequisites in grounding system studies. Along with an adequate measurement procedure and a reliable field data processing, they are responsible for the success in the design and the installation of grounding grids in electrical power systems. In this frame of reference, the purpose of this work is to present an embracing investigation combining
in-situ
measuring data from soil resistivity and geological survey, supported by the Wenner method and standard penetration test (SPT). The study is focused on investigating the differences in the apparent soil resistivity interpretation, provided by distinct approaches, identifying the one that better correlates with SPT. Furthermore, a geoelectrical and geotechnical soil characterization is in-depth evaluated, culminating in the derivations among soil resistivity, moisture content, and its mechanical properties. The study has a particular application, but not restricted, to electrical substations design, in which a proper soil modeling and representation are mandatory. The obtained results are promising serving as a foundation for further investigation.