Soil classification using the cone penetration test

TLDR

Several charts exist for evaluating soil type from electric cone penetration test (CPT) data. A new system is proposed based on normalized CPT data. The new charts are derived from extensive published and unpublished data worldwide and were evaluated using wire‑line CPT data from a 300‑m deep borehole. The normalized charts show good agreement with laboratory samples and the authors recommend measuring pore pressures at specific depths during cone penetration. Key words: soil classification, cone penetration test, in situ, case history.

Abstract

Several charts exist for evaluating soil type from electric cone penetration test (CPT) data. A new system is proposed based on normalized CPT data. The new charts are based on extensive data available from published and unpublished experience worldwide. The new charts are evaluated using data from a 300 m deep borehole with wire-line CPT. Good agreement was obtained between samples and the CPT data using the new normalized charts. Recommendations are provided concerning the location at which to measure pore pressures during cone penetration. Key words: soil classification, cone penetration test, in situ, case history.