Interpretation of In situ Testing of Cohesive Soils Using Rational Methods
Abstract
This research uses theoretical analyses to investigate the fundamentals controlling the performance of common in situ penetration tests (piezocone, pressuremeter, dilatometer, field vane etc.) which are used to estimate the engineering properties of cohesive soils such as clay. The mechanics of penetration processes are modeled using the Strain Path Method together with generalized effective stress soil models. The analytical predications provide a rational basis for establishing how soil properties are related to in situ measurements. Comparisons with field data from well documented sites are used to evaluate the analytical predictions and provide a basis for more reliable interpretation of engineering properties. Research during the second year of the project focused on the following topics: (1) the development of analytical methods to predict pore pressure around three- dimensional penetrometers; (2) fundamental analytical studies of the mechanics of flat plate penetration; (3) application of analytical predictions for interpreting the undrained shear strength and preconsolidation pressure from piezocone data; (4) evaluation of contact pressures measured by the dilatometer; and (5) prediction of the disturbance caused by field vane insertion.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA232972
Entities
People
- Alexander Rafalovich
- Andrew J. Whittle
- Charles C. Ladd
- Charles P. Aubeny
- Mohsen M. Baligh
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology