What is Marine Geotechnical testing:
Marine geotechnical testing is the process of analysing soil and sediment samples from the seabed to understand ground conditions beneath oceans, coastal areas, and waterways. It provides critical information about the strength, composition, and behaviour of offshore soils.
This type of testing is used to support the planning, design, and construction of marine and offshore structures. Typical applications include offshore wind farms, oil and gas platforms, subsea cables and pipelines, coastal defences, and port or harbour developments.
How can Normec i2 Analytical help:
We offer specialised capabilities in the reception, logging, and handling of offshore geotechnical samples, including cores recovered from challenging marine environments. Our dedicated team supports clients across the Renewables, Oil & Gas, and Offshore Survey sectors with fast, accurate sample processing and dependable results.
Geotechnical Logging & Offshore Sample Testing:
Our Geotechnical Logging Laboratory offers a comprehensive range of geotechnical and environmental analyses, supporting clients from project planning through to final reporting. Every investigation begins with a project start-up meeting, allowing our team to understand specific requirements, discuss sample challenges, and ensure that all testing is aligned with project objectives and industry standards.
We provide full geotechnical logging, sample photography, core description, and subsampling services. Our experienced technicians examine and document undisturbed samples in detail, working directly with clients to confirm targeted testing intervals before subsampling and laboratory analysis. This collaborative approach ensures accuracy, consistency, and complete traceability across the entire sample lifecycle.
With a strong focus on technical quality, precision handling, and rapid turnaround times, Normec i2 Analytical delivers trusted results that support safe offshore design, operational planning, and environmental compliance.
Our Marine Geotechnical services:
Logging and initial testing:
- Core logging and photography – BS EN ISO 14688-1:2018 and Munsell Soil Colour Book (REV 2009)
- Thermal Conductivity /Resistivity (ASTM D5334-22AE01)
- Electrical Resistivity (BS 1377-3:2018: Clause 13.5)
- Lab Vane (BS 1377-2:2022 Cl. 24)
- Torvane (ASTM D8121/D821M – 19)
- Pocket penetrometer (In house method)
- Min/Max density (In house method)
- Fall cone (BS EN ISO 17892-6:2017)
Additional geotechnical testing for Offshore project – (all accredited):
- Particle Size Distribution (incl. Hydrometer)
(BS EN ISO 17892-4:2016, BS 1377-2:2022 cl. 10) - Water content
(BS EN ISO 17892-1 :2014+A1 :2022, BS 1377-2 : 2022, clause 4.1) - Particle density (using a pycnometer)
(BS EN ISO 17892-3 : 2015) - Particle density (using a gas jar)
(BS 1377-2 : 2022, cl. 9.2) - Bulk density
(Linear measurement in accordance with BS EN ISO 17892-2: 2014: Clause 5.1) - Liquid and plastic limit (Atterberg)
(BS EN ISO 17892-12:2018+A2:2022, cl 5.3 and 5.5, Fall Cone Method, 4 Pt Test, BS 1377-2:2022, cl 5.2 and 6) - Unconsolidated Undrained triaxial test
(BS EN ISO 17892-8:2018) - Effective stress Triaxial (Drained and Undrained)
(BS EN ISO 17892-9-2018), BS 1377-2-2022 cl. 20) - Direct Shear Box Testing (Small Shear Box)
(BS EN ISO 17892-10:2018, BS 1377-2 Cl. 25.2:2022) - Oedometer testing
(BS EN ISO 17892-5:2017, BS 1377-2:2022 Cl. 16 & 17)
Potential geochemical testing for offshore projects:
- Water and acid soluble sulphate
- Water and acid soluble chloride
- Loss on ignition and organic matter
- pH
- Carbonate
- Salinity
- TPH / PAH
- Metals
If you have any questions about our services or wish to discuss how we can support your upcoming project, please contact us.
