Direct Push technologies—an efficient investigation method for subsurface characterization

About ten years ago, Direct Push technologies were introduced in Germany as a “new” tool for subsurface characterization. Ever since, they have been frequently used in various fields of site investigations. However, despite over ten years of experience, their application potential is often perceived with scepticism. Closer consideration of the range of applications of this method shows that the technology is indeed being increasingly used, even though it does not seem to be completely accepted in the “consulting world”. This is surprising as Direct Push is already used in Germany in its simplest form—i.e. by percussion coring—on a routine basis. Nonetheless, the full potential of Direct Push has not yet been exploited. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview on the state of the art of this technology and its various application potentials and limitations.