Throughcoring

Throughcoring is a specialized geotechnical drilling technique used to obtain intact soil or rock samples that extend through an entire geological stratum or formation. Unlike conventional coring methods that retrieve a portion of the material, throughcoring aims to extract a continuous sample from the top to the bottom of a target zone. This is particularly useful when studying the complete stratigraphy or the behavior of a material under varying conditions throughout its depth.

The process typically involves using a specialized drill bit and core barrel designed to penetrate and retain the entire length of the targeted layer. The drill string is advanced until the desired depth is reached, at which point the core barrel is sealed and extracted. The recovered sample provides a complete, undisturbed profile of the material, allowing for detailed analysis of its properties, composition, and structure across its full extent.

Throughcoring is employed in various fields, including geological surveys, environmental assessments, and engineering projects such as foundation design and tunnel construction. The ability to examine an entire stratum without interruption is crucial for understanding subsurface conditions, identifying potential challenges, and making informed decisions regarding subsurface development or resource extraction. The integrity of the sample is paramount, and careful drilling and recovery procedures are essential to minimize disturbance.