Propuesta de un documento alternativo de control técnico para la clasificación de suelos en diferentes tipos de obra de construcción geotécnica

Abstract

This document proposes an analysis and comparison of various soil classification systems applicable to specific geotechnical engineering typologies. The objective is to establish technical criteria that guide the selection of laboratory tests and the interpretation of results based on project requirements. A comprehensive documentary and comparative review of national and international academic, technical, and regulatory sources was conducted, including the USCS, AASHTO, INVÍAS, NTC, ASTM, BS 5930 / Eurocode 7, OSHA, and FAO/WRB systems, as well as criteria for borrow and fill materials. Through this review, fundamental tests for characterization were identified to determine the relevance of each system within specific construction contexts. A comparative matrix was developed to synthesize the characteristics, advantages, and limitations of the primary classification systems. Subsequently, an alternative study was proposed to correlate these systems with the most pertinent laboratory tests. Finally, a basic checklist was generated to serve as a guide for requesting, executing, and recording geotechnical tests in laboratory settings according to the type of project. The results enabled the establishment of equivalencies between methodologies, the determination of the relationship between classification and soil behavior, and the proposal of a practical verification tool to enhance traceability and standardization in laboratory practice. This study concludes that the selection of both the classification system and its associated tests must align with the specific type of construction, local site conditions, and the scope of the study to ensure that technical decisions remain consistent, verifiable, and compliant with current regulatory standards.