PDA for laterally loaded piles?

I was asked today whether PDA testing can be usefully used for laterally loaded piles..... Well, yes and no. PDA testing directly assesses axial capacity, but when it is carefully analyzed using Capwap, the shaft friction distribution, and the end bearing stiffness can be used to infer the geotechnical conditions (undrained shear strength, relative density etc. The inferred geotechnical conditions can then be compared with the design assumptions to for instance verify (a) that the local conditions are compliant (b) that the toe is embedded in a target layer (c) that the construction has not 'de-densified' the ground. The PDA testing can also be used to verify pile integrity. So, by applying sound engineering principles, PDA testing can provide very useful results even for laterally loaded piles. ...and remember, it is always best to test early in the project, or even in advance so that the important learnings can be applied during the contract. #PDAtesting #pilewalls #retainingwall #ConstructionQA #geotechnicalengineering

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Basement pile wall