Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Soil Classification and Analysis in Gaza City, Palestine

Abstract

Geographic Information System (GIS) can integrate and relate any data with a spatial component regardless of the source of data. It's easy to store, retrieve, manage and analyze geotechnical data. In this study Geotechnical field was chosen because Gaza Strip governorates lack studies in this field. Given that there is a large quantity of data in hard copy format which is difficult to handle without the implementation of GIS. Thus Gaza City has been selected as a case study. This research aims to investigate the development of a Geographic Information System (GIS) to better collect, manage, analyze and visualize soils data which obtained from boreholes test results collected from 92 boreholes covering about 70% of Gaza City. The methodology applied is divided into several stages including data compilation and editing, preparing data for analysis, archiving, analyzing and presentation. This research presents the results of soil logs (2D or 3D logs) and their engineering properties for any specific location that may be chosen. Models, sections, profiles and fences can also be obtained. In addition to Maps as bearing capacity, water content, type of foundation, excavation depth and lithology planer map at any depth can be created through employing GIS technology. Finally, the research provides engineers with the necessary geotechnical information for designing construction in the different projects as buildings, towers and roads.