CPT - A Synthesis of Highway Practice (NCHRP, 2007)

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Cone

Cone P

P

enetration

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esting

A Synthesis of Highway Practice

RESEARCH

PROGRAM

NCHRP

SYNTHESIS 368

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TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH BOARD 2007 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE* TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH BOARD 2007 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE*

OFFICERS OFFICERS Chair:

Chair: Linda S. Watson, Linda S. Watson,CEO, LYNX–Central Florida RegionaCEO, LYNX–Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority, Orlandol Transportation Authority, Orlando

Vice Chair:

Vice Chair: Debra L. Miller, Secretary, Kansas DOT, Topeka Debra L. Miller, Secretary, Kansas DOT, Topeka

Executive Director:

Executive Director: Robert E. Skinner, Jr., Robert E. Skinner, Jr.,TransportaTransportation Research Board tion Research Board MEMBERS

MEMBERS

J. BARRY BARKER,

J. BARRY BARKER, Executive Director, Transit Authority of River City, Louisville, KY Executive Director, Transit Authority of River City, Louisville, KY MICHAEL W. BEHRENS,

MICHAEL W. BEHRENS, Executive Director, Texas DOT, Austin Executive Director, Texas DOT, Austin ALLEN D. BIEHLER,

ALLEN D. BIEHLER,Secretary, Pennsylvania DOT, HarrisburgSecretary, Pennsylvania DOT, Harrisburg JOHN D. BOWE,

JOHN D. BOWE,President, Americas Region, APL Limited, Oakland, CAPresident, Americas Region, APL Limited, Oakland, CA LARRY L. BROWN, SR.,

LARRY L. BROWN, SR., Executive Director, Mississippi DOT, Jackson Executive Director, Mississippi DOT, Jackson DEBORAH H. BUTLER,

DEBORAH H. BUTLER,Vice President, Customer Service, Norfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries, Atlanta, GAVice President, Customer Service, Norfolk Southern Corporation and Subsidiaries, Atlanta, GA ANNE P. CANBY,

ANNE P. CANBY,President, Surface Transportation Policy Partnership, Washington, DC President, Surface Transportation Policy Partnership, Washington, DC NICHOLAS J. GARBER,

NICHOLAS J. GARBER, Henry L. Kinnier Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville Henry L. Kinnier Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville ANGELA GITTENS,

ANGELA GITTENS,Vice President, Airport Business Services, HNTB Corporation, Miami, FLVice President, Airport Business Services, HNTB Corporation, Miami, FL SUSAN HANSON,

SUSAN HANSON, Landry University Professor of Geography, Graduate School of Geography, Clark University, Worcester, MA Landry University Professor of Geography, Graduate School of Geography, Clark University, Worcester, MA ADIB K. KANAFANI,

ADIB K. KANAFANI,Cahill Professor of Civil Engineering, University of California, BerkeleyCahill Professor of Civil Engineering, University of California, Berkeley HAROLD E. LINNENKOHL,

HAROLD E. LINNENKOHL,Commissioner, Georgia DOT, AtlantaCommissioner, Georgia DOT, Atlanta MICHAEL D. MEYER,

MICHAEL D. MEYER,Professor, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, AtlantaProfessor, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta MICHAEL R. MORRIS,

MICHAEL R. MORRIS, Director of Transportation, North Central Texas Council of Governments, Arlington Director of Transportation, North Central Texas Council of Governments, Arlington JOHN R. NJORD,

JOHN R. NJORD, Executive Director, Utah DOT, Salt Lake City Executive Director, Utah DOT, Salt Lake City PETE K. RAHN,

PETE K. RAHN, Director, Director,Missouri DOT, JefMissouri DOT, Jefferson Cityferson City SANDRA ROSENBLOOM,

SANDRA ROSENBLOOM,Professor of Planning, University of Arizona, TucsonProfessor of Planning, University of Arizona, Tucson TRACY L. ROSSER,

TRACY L. ROSSER,Vice President, Corporate Traffic, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Bentonville, ARVice President, Corporate Traffic, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Bentonville, AR ROSA CLAUSELL ROUNTREE,

ROSA CLAUSELL ROUNTREE, Executive Director, Georgia State Road and Tollway Authority, Atlanta Executive Director, Georgia State Road and Tollway Authority, Atlanta HENRY G. (GERRY) SCHWARTZ, JR.,

HENRY G. (GERRY) SCHWARTZ, JR.,Senior ProfessoSenior Professor,r,WashingtoWashington University, St. Louis, MOn University, St. Louis, MO C. MICHAEL WALTON,

C. MICHAEL WALTON, Ernest H. Cockrell Centennial Chair in Engineering, University of Texas, Austin Ernest H. Cockrell Centennial Chair in Engineering, University of Texas, Austin STEVE WILLIAMS,

STEVE WILLIAMS,Chairman and CEO, Maverick Transportation, Inc., Little Rock, ARChairman and CEO, Maverick Transportation, Inc., Little Rock, AR EX OFFICIO MEMBERS

EX OFFICIO MEMBERS

THAD ALLEN

THAD ALLEN(Adm., U.S. Co(Adm., U.S. Coast Guard),ast Guard),Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard, Washington, DC Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard, Washington, DC THOMAS J. BARR

THOMAS J. BARRETTETT(Vice Adm., U.S. Coa(Vice Adm., U.S. Coast Guard, ret.),st Guard, ret.), Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administrator, U.S.DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administrator, U.S.DOT MARION C. BLAKEY,

MARION C. BLAKEY,Federal Aviation Administrator, U.S.DOT Federal Aviation Administrator, U.S.DOT JOSEPH H. BOARDMAN,

JOSEPH H. BOARDMAN,Federal Railroad Administrator, U.S.DOT Federal Railroad Administrator, U.S.DOT JOHN A. BOBO, JR.,

JOHN A. BOBO, JR., Acting Administrator, Research and Innovative Technology Administration, U.S.DOT Acting Administrator, Research and Innovative Technology Administration, U.S.DOT REBECCA M. BREWSTER,

REBECCA M. BREWSTER,President and COO, American Transportation Research Institute, Smyrna, GAPresident and COO, American Transportation Research Institute, Smyrna, GA GEORGE BUGLIARELLO,

GEORGE BUGLIARELLO,Chancellor, Polytechnic University of New York, Brooklyn, and Foreign Secretary, National AcademyChancellor, Polytechnic University of New York, Brooklyn, and Foreign Secretary, National Academy

of Engineering, Washington, DC

of Engineering, Washington, DC J. RICHARD CAPKA,

J. RICHARD CAPKA,Federal Highway Administrator, U.S.DOT Federal Highway Administrator, U.S.DOT SEAN T. CONNAUGHTON,

SEAN T. CONNAUGHTON, Maritime Administrator, U.S.DOT Maritime Administrator, U.S.DOT EDWARD R. HAMBERGER,

EDWARD R. HAMBERGER,President and CEO, Association of American Railroads, Washington, DC President and CEO, Association of American Railroads, Washington, DC JOHN H. HILL,

JOHN H. HILL,Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrator, U.S.DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrator, U.S.DOT JOHN C. HORSLEY,

JOHN C. HORSLEY, Executive Director, American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, Washington, DC Executive Director, American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, Washington, DC J. EDWARD JOHNSON,

J. EDWARD JOHNSON, Director, Applied Science Directorate, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, John C. Stennis Director, Applied Science Directorate, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, John C. Stennis

Space Center, MS

Space Center, MS WILLIAM W. MILLAR,

WILLIAM W. MILLAR,President, American Public Transportation Association, Washington, DC President, American Public Transportation Association, Washington, DC NICOLE R. NASON,

NICOLE R. NASON, National Highway Traffic Safety Administrator, U.S.DOT National Highway Traffic Safety Administrator, U.S.DOT JEFFREY N. SHANE,

JEFFREY N. SHANE,Under Secretary for Policy, U.S.DOT Under Secretary for Policy, U.S.DOT JAMES S. SIMPSON,

JAMES S. SIMPSON,Federal Transit Administrator, U.S.DOT Federal Transit Administrator, U.S.DOT CARL A. STRO

CARL A. STROCKCK(Lt. Gen., U.S. A(Lt. Gen., U.S. Army),rmy),Chief of Engineers and Commanding General, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Washington, DC Chief of Engineers and Commanding General, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Washington, DC

*Membership as of March 2007. *Membership as of March 2007.

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TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH BOARD TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH BOARD

WASHINGTON, D.C. WASHINGTON, D.C. 2007 2007 www.TRB.org www.TRB.org

NCHRP

SYNTHESIS 368

Research Sponsored by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials Research Sponsored by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials

in Cooperation with the

in Cooperation with the Federal Highway AdministrationFederal Highway Administration

S

SUBJECTUBJECTAAREASREAS

Soils, Geology, and Foundations

Cone Penetration Testing

A Synthesis of Highway Practice

C

CONSULTANTONSULTANT

PAUL W. MAYNE

Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, Georgia

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NATIONAL COOPERATIVE HIGHWAY RESEARCH PROGRAM

Systematic, well-designed research provides the most effective Systematic, well-designed research provides the most effective approach to the solution of many problems facing highway approach to the solution of many problems facing highway administrato

administrators and rs and engineers. Often, highway problems are of engineers. Often, highway problems are of locallocal interest and can best be studied by highway departments interest and can best be studied by highway departments individually or in cooperation with their state universities and individually or in cooperation with their state universities and others. However, the accelerating growth of highway transportation others. However, the accelerating growth of highway transportation develops increasingly complex problems of wide interest to develops increasingly complex problems of wide interest to highway authorities. These problems are best studied through a highway authorities. These problems are best studied through a coordinated program of cooperative research.

coordinated program of cooperative research.

In recognition of these needs, the highway administrators of the In recognition of these needs, the highway administrators of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials initiated in 1962 an objective national highway research Officials initiated in 1962 an objective national highway research program employing modern scientiﬁc techniques. This program is program employing modern scientiﬁc techniques. This program is supported on a continuing basis by funds from participating supported on a continuing basis by funds from participating member states of the Association and it receives the full cooperation member states of the Association and it receives the full cooperation and support of the Federal Highway Administration, United States and support of the Federal Highway Administration, United States Department of Transportation.

Department of Transportation.

The Transportation Research Board of the National Academies The Transportation Research Board of the National Academies was requested by the Association to administer the research was requested by the Association to administer the research program because of the Board’s recognized objectivity and program because of the Board’s recognized objectivity and understanding of modern research practices. The Board is uniquely understanding of modern research practices. The Board is uniquely suited for this purpose as it maintains an extensive committee suited for this purpose as it maintains an extensive committee structure from which authorities on any highway transportation structure from which authorities on any highway transportation subject may be drawn; it possesses avenues of communications and subject may be drawn; it possesses avenues of communications and cooperation with federal, state, and local governmental agencies, cooperation with federal, state, and local governmental agencies, universities, and industry; its relationship to the National Research universities, and industry; its relationship to the National Research Council is an insurance of objectivity; it maintains a full-time Council is an insurance of objectivity; it maintains a full-time research correlation staff of specialists in highway transportation research correlation staff of specialists in highway transportation matters to bring the ﬁndings of research directly to those who are in matters to bring the ﬁndings of research directly to those who are in a position to use them.

a position to use them.

The program is developed on the basis of research needs The program is developed on the basis of research needs identified by chief administrators of the highway and transportation identified by chief administrators of the highway and transportation departments and by committees of AASHTO. Each year, specific departments and by committees of AASHTO. Each year, specific areas of research needs to be included in the program are proposed areas of research needs to be included in the program are proposed to the National Research Council and the Board by the American to the National Research Council and the Board by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. Research projects to fulfill these needs are define

Research projects to fulfill these needs are defined by the Board, andd by the Board, and qualified research agencies are selected from those that have qualified research agencies are selected from those that have submitted proposals. Administration and surveillance of research submitted proposals. Administration and surveillance of research contracts are the responsibilities of the National Research Council contracts are the responsibilities of the National Research Council and the Transportation Research Board.

and the Transportation Research Board.

The needs for highway research are many, and the National The needs for highway research are many, and the National Cooperative Highway Research Program can make signiﬁcant Cooperative Highway Research Program can make signiﬁcant contributions to the solution of highway transportation problems of contributions to the solution of highway transportation problems of mutual concern to many responsible groups. The program, mutual concern to many responsible groups. The program, however, is intended to complement rather than to substitute for or however, is intended to complement rather than to substitute for or duplicate other highway research programs.

duplicate other highway research programs.

Published reports of the

NATIONAL COOPERATIVE HIGHWAY RESEARCH PROGRAM

are available from:

Transportation Research Board

Business Office Business Office 500 Fifth Street, NW 500 Fifth Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 Washington, DC 20001

and can be ordered through the Internet at:

http://www.national-academies.org/trb/bookstore

Printed in the United States of America

NCHR

NCHRPPSYNTSYNTHESIHESIS S 368368

Project 20-5 (Topic 37-14) Project 20-5 (Topic 37-14) ISSN 0547-5570 ISSN 0547-5570 ISBN ISBN 978-0-309-0978-0-309-09784-09784-0

Library of Congress Control No.

Library of Congress Control No. 20079239332007923933

©

COPYRIGHT PERMISSION

Authors herein are responsible for the authenticity of their materials and for

obtaining written permissions from publishers or persons who own the

copyright to any previously published or copyrighted material used herein.

Cooperative Research Programs (CRP) grants permission to reproduce

material in this publication for classroom and not-for-proﬁt purposes.

Permission is given with the understanding that none of the material will be

used to imply TRB, AASHTO, FAA, FHWA, FMCSA, FTA, or Transit

Development Corporation endorsement of a particular product, method, or

practice. It is expected that those reproducing the material in this document

for educational and not-for-proﬁt uses will give appropriate acknowledgment

of the source of any reprinted or reproduced material. For other uses of the

material, request permission from CRP.

NOTICE

The project that is the subject of this report was a part of the National

Cooperative Highway Research Program conducted by the Transportation

Research Board with the approval of

Research Board with the approval of the Governing Board of the Nationalthe Governing Board of the National

Research Council. Such approval reﬂects

Research Council. Such approval reﬂects the Governing Board’s judgment thatthe Governing Board’s judgment that

the program concerned is of national importance and appropriate with respect

to both the purposes and resources of

to both the purposes and resources of the National Research Council.the National Research Council.

The members of the technical

The members of the technical committee selected to monitor this project andcommittee selected to monitor this project and

to review this report were chosen for recognized scholarly competence and

with due consideration for the balance

with due consideration for the balance of disciplines appropriate to the project.of disciplines appropriate to the project.

The opinions and conclusions expressed or implied are those of the research

agency that performed the research, and, while they have been accepted as

appropriate by the technical committee, they are not necessarily those of the

Transportation Research Board, the National Research Council, the American

Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, or the Federal

Highway Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation.

Each report is reviewed and accepted for publication by the technical

committee according to procedures established and monitored by the

Transportation Research Board Executive Committee and the Governing

Board of th

Board of the National Research e National Research Council.Council.

NOTE:

NOTE:_{The Transportation Research Board of the National Academies, the}_{The Transportation Research Board of the National Academies, the}

National Research Council, the Federal Highway Administration, the American National Research Council, the Federal Highway Administration, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, and the individual Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, and the individual states participating in the National Cooperative Highway Research Program do states participating in the National Cooperative Highway Research Program do not endorse products or manufacturers. Trade or manufacturers’ names appear not endorse products or manufacturers. Trade or manufacturers’ names appear herein solely because they are considered essential to the object of this report. herein solely because they are considered essential to the object of this report.

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The

TheNNaa_tion_tionaa_{l Ac}_{l Ac}aa_{demy of}_{demy of}EE_ngineering_ngineering_{was established in 1964,}_{was established in 1964,} _u_{under the charter of}_{nder the charter of}_{the National Acad-}_{the National}

Acad-emy of Sciences, as a parallel or

emy of Sciences, as a parallel orgganization of oanization of ouutstandintstandinggenenggineers. It is aineers. It is auutonomotonomouus in its administrations in its administration and in the selection of its members, sharin

and in the selection of its members, sharinggwith the National Academy of Sciences the responsibility forwith the National Academy of Sciences the responsibility for advisin

advisinggthe federalthe federalggovernment. The National Academy of Enovernment. The National Academy of Enggineerinineeringgalso sponsors enalso sponsors enggineerinineeringgproproggramsrams aimed at meetin

aimed at meetinggnational needs, enconational needs, encouuraragges edes eduucation and research, and recocation and research, and recoggnizes the snizes the suuperior achieve-perior achieve-ments of en

ments of enggineers. Dr. Charles M. Vest is president of the National Academy of Enineers. Dr. Charles M. Vest is president of the National Academy of Enggineerinineeringg.. The

TheInstitInstituute of Medicinete of Medicine was established in 1970 by the National Academy of Sciences to secwas established in 1970 by the National Academy of Sciences to secuure there the services of eminent members of appropriate professions in the examination of policy matters pertainin services of eminent members of appropriate professions in the examination of policy matters pertainingg to the health of the p

to the health of the puublic. The Institblic. The Instituute actste acts uunder the responsibilitynder the responsibility ggiven to the National Academy of iven to the National Academy of Sciences by its con

Sciences by its conggressional charter to be an adviser to the federalressional charter to be an adviser to the federal ggovernment and, on its own initiative,overnment and, on its own initiative, to identify iss

to identify issuues of medical care, research, and edes of medical care, research, and eduucation. Dr. Harvey V. Finebercation. Dr. Harvey V. Finebergg is president of theis president of the Instit

Instituute of Medicine.te of Medicine. The

TheNNaationtionaal Resel Reseaarch Corch Couuncilncilwas orwas orgganized by the National Academy of Sciences in 1916 to associateanized by the National Academy of Sciences in 1916 to associate the broad comm

the broad commuunity of science and technolonity of science and technologgy with the Academyíy with the Academyís ps puurposes of f rposes of f uurtherinrtheringgknowledknowledgge ande and advisin

advisinggthe federalthe federalggovernment. Fovernment. Functioninunctioninggin accordance within accordance withggeneral policies determined by the Acad-eneral policies determined by the Acad-emy, the Co

emy, the Couuncil has become the principal operatinncil has become the principal operatinggaaggency of both the National Academy of Sciencesency of both the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of En

and the National Academy of Enggineerinineeringgin providinin providinggservices to theservices to theggovernment, the povernment, the puublic, and the scien-blic, and the scien-tiﬁc and en

tiﬁc and enggineerinineeringgcommcommuunities. The Conities. The Couuncil is administered jointly by both the Academies and the Insti-ncil is administered jointly by both the Academies and the Insti-t

tuute of Medicine. Dr. Ralph J. Cicerone and Dr. Charles M. Vest are chair and vice chair, respectively,te of Medicine. Dr. Ralph J. Cicerone and Dr. Charles M. Vest are chair and vice chair, respectively, of the National Research Co

of the National Research Couuncil.ncil. The

The TrTraa_nsport_nsportaa_{tion Rese}_{tion Rese}aa_{rch Bo}_{rch Bo}aa_rd_rd _{is one of six major divisions of the National Research Co}_{is one of six major divisions of the National Research Co}_u_uncil,_ncil,

which serves as an independent adviser to the federal

which serves as an independent adviser to the federal ggovernment and others on scientific and technicalovernment and others on scientific and technical q

quuestions of national importance. The estions of national importance. The National Research CoNational Research Couuncil is jointly administered by the Nationalncil is jointly administered by the National Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of En

Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of Enggineerinineeringg, and the Instit, and the Instituute of Medicine. The mission of te of Medicine. The mission of the Transportation Research Board is to provide leadership in transportation innovation and pro the Transportation Research Board is to provide leadership in transportation innovation and pro ggressress thro

througugh research and information exchanh research and information exchangge, conde, conduucted within a settincted within a settinggthat is objective, interdisciplinary,that is objective, interdisciplinary, and m

and muultimodal. The Boardltimodal. The Board’’s varied activities anns varied activities annuually enally engagagge aboe abouut 7,000 ent 7,000 enggineers, scientists, and otherineers, scientists, and other transportation researchers and practitioners from the p

transportation researchers and practitioners from the puublic and private sectors and academia, all of whomblic and private sectors and academia, all of whom contrib

contribuute their expertise in the pte their expertise in the puublic interest. The problic interest. The proggram is sram is suupported by state transportation depart-pported by state transportation depart-ments, federal a

ments, federal aggencies inclencies incluudindinggthe component administrations of the the component administrations of the U.S. Department of Transportation,U.S. Department of Transportation, and other or

and other orgganizations and individanizations and individuuals interested in als interested in the development of transportation.the development of transportation. www.TRB.orgwww.TRB.org

www.national-academies.org

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NCHRP COMMITTEE FOR PROJECT 20-5

CHAIR

GARY D. TAYLOR,

GARY D. TAYLOR,CTE EngineersCTE Engineers

MEMBERS

THOMAS R. BOHUSLAV,

THOMAS R. BOHUSLAV,Texas DOT Texas DOT

DONN E. HANCHER,

DONN E. HANCHER,University of KentuckyUniversity of Kentucky

DWIGHT HORNE,

DWIGHT HORNE,Federal Highway AdministrationFederal Highway Administration

YSELA LLORT,

YSELA LLORT,Florida DOT Florida DOT

WESLEY S.C. LUM,

WESLEY S.C. LUM,California DOT California DOT

JAMES W. MARCH,

JAMES W. MARCH,Federal Highway AdministrationFederal Highway Administration

JOHN M. MASON, JR.,

JOHN M. MASON, JR.,Pennsylvania State UniversityPennsylvania State University

CATHERINE NELSON,

CATHERINE NELSON,Oregon DOT Oregon DOT

LARRY VELASQUEZ,

LARRY VELASQUEZ, New Mexico DOT New Mexico DOT

PAUL T. WELLS,

PAUL T. WELLS, New York State DOT New York State DOT

FHWA LIAISON FHWA LIAISON WILLIAM ZACCAGNINO WILLIAM ZACCAGNINO TRB LIAISON TRB LIAISON STEPHEN F. MAHER STEPHEN F. MAHER

COOPERATIVE RESEARCH PROGRAMS STAFF

CHRISTOPHER W. JENKS,

CHRISTOPHER W. JENKS, Director, Cooperative Research Programs Director, Cooperative Research Programs

CRAWFORD F. JENCKS,

CRAWFORD F. JENCKS, Deputy Director, Cooperative Research Deputy Director, Cooperative Research

Programs

EILEEN DELANEY,

EILEEN DELANEY, Director of Publications Director of Publications

NCHRP SYNTHESIS STAFF

STEPHEN R. GODWIN,

STEPHEN R. GODWIN, Director for Studies and Special Programs Director for Studies and Special Programs

JON WILLIAMS,

JON WILLIAMS, Associate Director, IDEA and Synthesis Studies Associate Director, IDEA and Synthesis Studies

GAIL STABA,

GAIL STABA,Senior Program Officer Senior Program Officer

DONNA L. VLASAK,

DONNA L. VLASAK,Senior Program Officer Senior Program Officer

DON TIPPMAN,

DON TIPPMAN, Editor Editor

CHERYL Y. KEITH,

CHERYL Y. KEITH,Senior Program Assistant Senior Program Assistant

TOPIC PANEL

DAVID J. HORHOTA,

DAVID J. HORHOTA,Florida Department of TransportationFlorida Department of Transportation

G.P. JAYAPRAKASH,

G.P. JAYAPRAKASH,Transportation Research Board Transportation Research Board

ALAN LUTENEGGER,

ALAN LUTENEGGER,University of Massachusetts—Amherst University of Massachusetts—Amherst

KEVIN M

KEVIN MCCLAIN,LAIN, Missouri Department of Transportation Missouri Department of Transportation

MARK J. MORVANT,

MARK J. MORVANT, Louisiana Department of Transportation and Louisiana Department of Transportation and

Development

GARY J. PERSON,

GARY J. PERSON, Minnesota Department of Transportation Minnesota Department of Transportation

TOM SHANTZ,

TOM SHANTZ,California Department of TransportationCalifornia Department of Transportation

RECEP YILMAZ,

RECEP YILMAZ,Fugro Geosciences, Inc.Fugro Geosciences, Inc.

MICHAEL ADAMS,

MICHAEL ADAMS,Federal Highway AdministrationFederal Highway Administration(Liaison)(Liaison)

SCOTT A. ANDERSON,

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and due consideration may not be given to

and due consideration may not be given to recommended practices for solving or alleviat-recommended practices for solving or alleviat-ing the problem.

ing the problem.

There is information on nearly every subject of concern to highway administrators and There is information on nearly every subject of concern to highway administrators and engineers. Much of it derives from research or from the work of practitioners faced with engineers. Much of it derives from research or from the work of practitioners faced with problems in their day-to-day work. To provide

problems in their day-to-day work. To provide a systematic means for assembling and eval-a systematic means for assembling and eval-uating such useful information and to make it

uating such useful information and to make it available to the entire highway community,available to the entire highway community, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials—through the the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials—through the mechanism of the National Cooperative Highway Research Program—authorized the mechanism of the National Cooperative Highway Research Program—authorized the Transportation Research Board to undertake a continuing study. This study, NCHRP Transportation Research Board to undertake a continuing study. This study, NCHRP Proj-ect 20-5, “Synthesis of Information Related to Highway Problems,” searches out and ect 20-5, “Synthesis of Information Related to Highway Problems,” searches out and syn-thesizes useful knowledge from all available sources and prepares concise, documented thesizes useful knowledge from all available sources and prepares concise, documented reports on speciﬁc topics. Reports from this endeavor constitute an NCHRP report series, reports on speciﬁc topics. Reports from this endeavor constitute an NCHRP report series, Synthesis of Highway Practice.

Synthesis of Highway Practice.

This synthesis series reports on current knowledge and practice, in a compact format, This synthesis series reports on current knowledge and practice, in a compact format, without the detailed directions usually found in handbooks

without the detailed directions usually found in handbooks or design manuals. Each reportor design manuals. Each report in the series provides a compendium of the best knowledge available on those measures in the series provides a compendium of the best knowledge available on those measures found to be the

found to be the most successful in resolving speciﬁc problems.most successful in resolving speciﬁc problems.

This synthesis reviews the cone penetration testing (CPT) current practices of This synthesis reviews the cone penetration testing (CPT) current practices of depart-ments of transportation (DOTs) in the

ments of transportation (DOTs) in the United States and Canada. United States and Canada. Information is presentedInformation is presented on cone penetrometer equipment options; field testing procedures; CPT data presentation on cone penetrometer equipment options; field testing procedures; CPT data presentation and geostratigraphic profiling; CPT evaluation of soil engineering parameters and and geostratigraphic profiling; CPT evaluation of soil engineering parameters and proper-ties; CPT for deep foundations, pilings, shallow foundations, and

ties; CPT for deep foundations, pilings, shallow foundations, and embankments; and CPTembankments; and CPT use in ground modiﬁcations and difficult ground conditions. The report is designed to serve use in ground modiﬁcations and difficult ground conditions. The report is designed to serve as a resource to states and

as a resource to states and provinces interested in taking advantage of CPT technology byprovinces interested in taking advantage of CPT technology by identifying applications, design procedures, advantages, and limitations for successful identifying applications, design procedures, advantages, and limitations for successful implementation.

implementation.

Information was gathered by a

Information was gathered by a literature review of domestic and international experience,literature review of domestic and international experience, a survey of DOTs in the United States and Canada, and

a survey of DOTs in the United States and Canada, and interviews with practitionerinterviews with practitioners.s. Paul W. Mayne, Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Paul W. Mayne, Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, collected and synthesized the information and wrote the report. The Technology, Atlanta, collected and synthesized the information and wrote the report. The members of the topic panel are acknowledged on the preceding page. This synthesis is an members of the topic panel are acknowledged on the preceding page. This synthesis is an immediately useful document that records the practices that

immediately useful document that records the practices that were acceptable within the were acceptable within the lim- lim-itations of the knowledge available at the time of its preparation. As progress in research itations of the knowledge available at the time of its preparation. As progress in research and practice continues, new knowledge will be added to that now at hand.

and practice continues, new knowledge will be added to that now at hand. PREFACE

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CONTENTS CONTENTS 1 1 SSUUMMMMAARRYY 5 5 CCHHAAPPTTEER R OONNEE IINNTTRROODDUUCCTTIIOONN 9 9 CCH AH APPTTEER TR TWWOO SSUURRVVEEY QY QU EU ESSTTIIOONNNNA IA IRRE OE ON CN COONNE PE PEEN EN ETTRRAATTIIO NO N TESTING TESTING 1 122 CCH AH APPTTEER R TTHHRREEEE CCO NO NE E PPEENNEET RT RO MO ME TE TEER R E QE QUUIIPPMMEENNTT History, 12 History, 12 Equipment, 12 Equipment, 12 21 21 CCHAHAPTPTER ER FFOUOURR TETESTSTINING G PRPROCOCEDEDURURES ES ANAND D SSOUOUNDNDINING G CLCLOSOSURUREE

Calibration and Maintenance of Penetrometer, 21

Filter Elements, 21

Baseline Readings, 22

Advancing the Penetrometer, 22

Tests at Intermittent Depths, 22

Hole Closure, 22 Hole Closure, 22 25 25 CCHAHAPTPTER ER FFIVIVEE COCONE NE PEPENENETRTRATATIOION TN TESESTITING NG DADATA TA PPRERESESENTNTATATIOIONN AND GEOSTRATIGRAPHY AND GEOSTRATIGRAPHY Geostratigraphic Proﬁling, 25 Geostratigraphic Proﬁling, 25

Soil Type by Visual Interpretation of Cone Penetration Testing Data, 25

Soil Behavioral Classiﬁcation, 25

2

299 CCHHAAPPTTEER SR SIIXX SSOOIIL PL PAARRAAMMEETTEER R EEVVAALLUUAATTIIOONNSS

Shear Wave Velocity, 29

Unit Weight, 30

Poisson’s Ratio, 31

Small-Strain Shear Modulus, 31

Soil Stiffness, 32

Stress History, 34

Effective Stress Strength, 37

Undrained Shear Strength of Clays, 39

Sensitivity, 41

Relative Density of Clean Sands, 41

Geostatic Lateral Stress State, 42

Effective Cohesion Intercept, 43

Coefficient of Consolidation, 44 Coefficient of Consolidation, 44 Rigidity Index, 46 Rigidity Index, 46 Permeability, 46 Permeability, 46

Other Soil Parameters, 47

Additional Considerations: Layered Soil Proﬁles, 47

(9)

57

57 CCHAHAPTPTER ER EIEIGHGHTT APAPPLPLICICATATIOIONS NS TO TO PIPILILINGNGS AS AND ND DEDEEP EP FOFOUNUNDADATITIONONSS

Rational or Indirect Cone Penetration Testing Method for Axial Pile Capacity, 57

Direct Cone Penetration Testing Methods for Axial Pile Capacity, 58

Other Direct Cone Penetration Testing Methods for Axial Capacity, 61

Foundation Displacements, 61 Foundation Displacements, 61 65 65 CCHAHAPTPTER ER NININENE COCONE NE PEPENENETRTRATATIOION N TETESTSTINING G USUSE E IN IN GRGROUOUNDND MODIFICATION MODIFICATION 6 677 CCHHAAPPTTEER TR TEENN SSEEIISSMMIIC C GGRROOUUNND HD HAAZZAARRDDSS

Identiﬁcation of Liquefaction Prone Soils, 67

Determine Level of Ground Shaking, 68

71

71 CCHAHAPTPTER ER ELELEVEVENEN MIMISCSCELELLALANENEOUOUS US USESES OS OF F COCONE NE PEPENENETRTRATATIOIONN

TESTING AND SPECIALIZED CONE PENETRATION

TESTING EQUIPMENT

76

76 CCHAHAPTPTER ER TWTWELELVEVE COCONE NE PEPENENETRTRATATIOION TN TESESTITING NG MMODODIFIFIICACATITIONONS FS FOROR

DIFFICULT GROUND CONDITIONS

Remote Access Cone Penetration Tests, 76

Cone Penetration Tests in Hard Ground, 76

Nearshore and Offshore Deployment, 83

84 84 CCHAHAPTPTER ER THTHIRIRTETEENEN COCONCNCLULUSISIONONS S ANAND D RERECOCOMMMMENENDEDED D FUFUTUTURERE RESEARCH RESEARCH 8 888 RREEFFEERREENNCCEESS 99 99 ABABBBREREVIVIATATIOIONS ANS AND AND ACRCRONONYMYMSS 10 1000 GLGLOSOSSASARY RY OF OF SYSYMBMBOLOLSS 10 1022 APAPPPENENDIDIX AX A COCONE PNE PENENETETRARATITION TON TESESTITING QNG QUEUESTSTIOIONNNNAIAIRERE

(10)

Cone penetration testing (CPT) is a fast and reliable means of conducting highway site

inves-tigations for exploring soils and soft ground for support of embankments, retaining walls,

tigations for exploring soils and soft ground for support of embankments, retaining walls,

pavement subgrades, and bridge foundations. The CPT soundings can be used either as a

replacement (in lieu of) or complement to conventional rotary drilling and sampling methods.

In CPT, an electronic steel probe is hydraulically pushed to collect continuous readings of

point load, friction, and porewater pressures with typical depths up to 30 m (100 ft) or more

reached in about 1 to 1

reached in about 1 to 111_⁄_⁄

2

2h. Data are logged directly to a field computer and can be used toh. Data are logged directly to a field computer and can be used to

evaluate the geostratigraphy, soil types, water table, and engineering parameters of the ground

by the geotechnical engineer on-site, thereby offering quick and preliminary conclusions for

design. With proper calibration, usin

design. With proper calibration, using full-scale load testing coupled with soil borings and lab-g full-scale load testing coupled with soil borings and

lab-oratory testing, the CPT results can be used for final design parameters and analysis.

oratory testing, the CPT results can be used for final design parameters and analysis.

In this NCHRP Synthesis, a review is presented on the current practices followed by

departments of transportation (DOTs) in the United States and Canada.

departments of transportation (DOTs) in the United States and Canada. A detailed question-A detailed

question-naire on the subject was distributed to 64 DOTs, with 56 total respondents (88%). The

naire on the subject was distributed to 64 DOTs, with 56 total respondents (88%). The

sur-vey questions were grouped into six broad categories: (1) use of the cone penetrometer by

vey questions were grouped into six broad categories: (1) use of the cone penetrometer by

each agency, (2) maintenance and field operations of the CPT,

each agency, (2) maintenance and field operations of the CPT, (3) geostratigraphic profiling(3) geostratigraphic profiling

by CPT, (4) CPT evaluation of soil engineering parameters and properties, (5) CPT

utiliza-tion for deep foundautiliza-tions and pilings, and

tion for deep foundations and pilings, and (6) other aspects and applications related to CPT.(6) other aspects and applications related to CPT.

Of the total number of DOTs responding, approximately 27% use CPT on a regular basis,

another 36% only use CPT on one-tenth of their projects, and the remaining 37% do not use

CPT at all. O

CPT at all. Overall, it can be concluded that the verall, it can be concluded that the technology is currently underutilized and thattechnology is currently underutilized and that

many DOTs could benefit in adopting this modern device into their site investigation

prac-tices; the survey results noted that 64% of the DOTs plan to

tices; the survey results noted that 64% of the DOTs plan to increase their use of CPT in theincrease their use of CPT in the

future.

In its simplest application, the cone

In its simplest application, the cone penetrometer offers a quick, expedient, and penetrometer offers a quick, expedient, and econom-

econom-ical way to profile the subsurface soil layering at a

ical way to profile the subsurface soil layering at a particular site. No drilling, soil samples,particular site. No drilling, soil samples,

or spoils are generated; therefore, CPT is less

or spoils are generated; therefore, CPT is less disruptive from an environmental standpoint.disruptive from an environmental standpoint.

The continuous nature of CPT

The continuous nature of CPT readings permit clear delineations of various soil strata, theirreadings permit clear delineations of various soil strata, their

depths, thicknesses, and extent, perhaps better than conventional rotary drilling operations

that use a standard drive

that use a standard drive sampler at 5-ft vertical intervals. Therefore, if it is expected sampler at 5-ft vertical intervals. Therefore, if it is expected that thethat the

subsurface conditions contain critical layers or soft zones that need detection and

subsurface conditions contain critical layers or soft zones that need detection and identifica-

identifica-tion, CPT can locate and highlight these particular features. In the case of piles that must bear

tion, CPT can locate and highlight these particular features. In the case of piles that must bear

in established lower foundation formation soils, CPT is

in established lower foundation formation soils, CPT is ideal for locating the pile tip eleva-ideal for locating the pile tip

eleva-tions for installation operaeleva-tions.

tions for installation operations.

A variety of cone penetrometer systems is available, ranging from small mini-pushing

units to very large truck and track vehicles. The

units to very large truck and track vehicles. The electronic penetrometerelectronic penetrometers range in size froms range in size from

small to large probes, with from one to five separate channels of measurements. The

pen-etrometer readings can be as simple as measuring just the axial load over

etrometer readings can be as simple as measuring just the axial load over the tip area, givingthe tip area, giving

the cone tip resistance (

the cone tip resistance (qqcc). A second load cell can provide the resistance over a side area, or). A second load cell can provide the resistance over a side area, or

sleeve friction (

sleeve friction ( f f ss). With both, the electronic friction cone is the normal type penetrometer,). With both, the electronic friction cone is the normal type penetrometer,

termed the cone penetration test. A mechanical-type CPT probe is available for pushing in

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PENETRA

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SUMMARY

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ing of shear wave velocity measurements and the resistivity CPTu uses electrodes to obtain

readings on the electrical properties of

readings on the electrical properties of the soil. Details concerning the the soil. Details concerning the standard equipment,standard equipment,

calibration, field test procedures, and

calibration, field test procedures, and interpretation and presentation of results are discussedinterpretation and presentation of results are discussed

in the report. Specialized testing procedures and equipment used to achieve penetration in

very dense or cemented ground

very dense or cemented ground are also reviewed in this report.are also reviewed in this report.

The evaluation of soil type by

The evaluation of soil type by CPT is indirect and must be CPT is indirect and must be inferred from the penetrome-inferred from the

penetrome-ter measurements, coupled with a good understanding of the local and regional geology.

ter measurements, coupled with a good understanding of the local and regional geology.

Therefore, it may be beneficial to cross-calibrate the CPT results with logs from adjacent soil

test borings to best utilize the

test borings to best utilize the technology in a reliable manner. When necessary, a technology in a reliable manner. When necessary, a simple CPTsimple CPT

sampler can be deployed for obtaining soil specimens for examination. In addition, video

CPT systems are available to allow

CPT systems are available to allow visual identification of soils and subsurface conditions invisual identification of soils and subsurface conditions in

real time.

The cone penetrometer is instrumented with load cells to measure point stress and friction

during a constant rate of advancement. The results can be interpreted within different

theoret-ical frameworks or by using empirtheoret-ical methods, or both. As the data are logged directly to the

ical frameworks or by using empirical methods, or both. As the data are logged directly to the

computer, additional sensors can be readily incorporated, including porewater pressure,

resis-tivity, inclination, and shear wave velocity, as well as a number of environmental

tivity, inclination, and shear wave velocity, as well as a number of environmental

measure-ments (gamma, pH, salinity, temperature, etc.). The ability of CPT to collect multiple and

ments (gamma, pH, salinity, temperature, etc.). The ability of CPT to collect multiple and

si-multaneous readings with depth is a valuable asset in the screening of subsurface conditions

multaneous readings with depth is a valuable asset in the screening of subsurface conditions

and the evaluation of natural foundation-bearing materials. The recorded data are stored

dig-itally and can be post-processed to interpret a number of geotechnical engineering parameters

itally and can be post-processed to interpret a number of geotechnical engineering parameters

that relate to soil strength, stiffness, stress state, and permeability. These parameters are needed

input in the design and analysis of the stability of embankments and slopes, bearing capacity

of shallow and deep foundations, and engineering evaluations concerning displacements,

de-flections, and settlements of walls, abutments, fills, and foundation systems.

flections, and settlements of walls, abutments, fills, and foundation systems.

In some circles, the cone penetrometer is considered to be a miniature pile foundation.

Thus, the recorded penetrometer data can be used either in a direct CPT method or indirect

(or rational) approach for evaluating the point end bearing and side friction resistance of deep

foundation systems. Both approaches are discussed in this report, with a particular effort

given to describing and outlining some of the newer methods developed for the piezocone

and seismic cone. Driven pilings and drilled deep foundations are considered. Methods are

also reviewed for the evaluation of bearing capacity and displacements of footings and

shal-low foundations from CPT results.

low foundations from CPT results.

From an economical standpoint, CPTs offer cost savings as well as

From an economical standpoint, CPTs offer cost savings as well as time savings in site in-time savings in site

in-vestigation. On a commercial testing basis in 2006 dollars, the cost of CPTs is between $20

vestigation. On a commercial testing basis in 2006 dollars, the cost of CPTs is between $20

and $30 per meter ($6 to $9 per foot), compared with soil test borings at between $40 and

$80 per meter ($12 to $24

$80 per meter ($12 to $24 per foot). Post-grouting of CPT holes during closure can per foot). Post-grouting of CPT holes during closure can add an-add

an-other $10 to $15 per meter ($3 to $4.50 per foot); whereas post-hole closure of the larger size

other $10 to $15 per meter ($3 to $4.50 per foot); whereas post-hole closure of the larger size

drilled boreholes may add another $15 to $30 per meter ($4.50 to $9.00 per foot).

In earthquake regions, CPT offers several capabilities in the evaluation of seismic ground

hazards. First, the sounding can be used to identify loose weak sands and silty sands below

the groundwater table that are susceptible to liquefaction. Second, the measurements taken

by the CPT

by the CPT can provide an assessment on the amount of can provide an assessment on the amount of soil resistance available to countersoil resistance available to counter

shearing during ground shaking. The penetrometer can also be fitted with geophones to

al-low for the determination of downhole shear

low for the determination of downhole shear wave velocity (wave velocity (V V ss) profiles. The) profiles. TheV V ssdata are re-data are

re-quired for site-specific analyses of ground amplification, particularly in the revised

quired for site-specific analyses of ground amplification, particularly in the revised

proce-dures of the International Building Code (IBC

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Ground engineering solutions to soft and/or problematic soils now include a wide range

of soil improvement methods, including surcharging, wick drains, dynamic compaction,

vibroflotation, and deep soil mixing. Applications of the CPT

vibroflotation, and deep soil mixing. Applications of the CPT are particularly useful for qual-are particularly useful for

qual-ity control during ground modification because they allow

ity control during ground modification because they allow a quick contrast in a quick contrast in comparing thecomparing the

before and after measured resistances with depth. The CPT

before and after measured resistances with depth. The CPT also allows for quantification of also allows for quantification of

time effects after completion of

time effects after completion of improvement.improvement.

Because CPTs are economical and expedient, this allows the DOT

Because CPTs are economical and expedient, this allows the DOT to deliver more milesto deliver more miles

of highway and more structures for the same program budget. As shown by the unit costs

presented earlier, CPTs offer investigation cost savings if they are used in lieu of some

tra-ditional soil test borings; however, CPTs can also

ditional soil test borings; however, CPTs can also have far greater value. In the have far greater value. In the right settings,right settings,

CPTs can be used

CPTs can be used in conjunction with borings to provide a more complete description of thein conjunction with borings to provide a more complete description of the

subsurface conditions, thereby reducing uncertainty in design and construction, and thus the

need for conservative assumptions and higher construction bid prices to

need for conservative assumptions and higher construction bid prices to cover risks posed bycover risks posed by

the uncertainties. As a result, the overall project can

the uncertainties. As a result, the overall project can benefit owing to a higher benefit owing to a higher degree of re-degree of

re-liability and improved overall cost on the design

liability and improved overall cost on the design and construction of the highway structure.and construction of the highway structure.

On a final note, within the field of geotechnical engineering and site investigation, those

who engage in the use of cone penetrometer technology are affectionately known as

“cone-heads.” We therefore encourage the DOT engineer to read this synthesis and learn of the

heads.” We therefore encourage the DOT engineer to read this synthesis and learn of the

possible advantages and benefits that can be gained by using CPTs on their own

transporta-tion projects. With due care and consideratransporta-tion, it is hoped that a growing number of

tion projects. With due care and consideration, it is hoped that a growing number of

cone-heads will emerge from DOTs across the United States.

heads will emerge from DOTs across the United States.

3 3

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Site-specific soil investigations are required for the analysis Site-specific soil investigations are required for the analysis and design of all highway bridge foundations, embankments, and design of all highway bridge foundations, embankments, retaining walls, slopes, excavations, and pavements. Toward retaining walls, slopes, excavations, and pavements. Toward the optimal design, the state engineer will want to consider the optimal design, the state engineer will want to consider safety, reliability, long-term maintenance, and economy in safety, reliability, long-term maintenance, and economy in deliberations of various solutions. To collect geotechnical deliberations of various solutions. To collect geotechnical in-formation, most state departments of transportation (DOTs) formation, most state departments of transportation (DOTs) either maintain their own in-house drill rigs with field crews either maintain their own in-house drill rigs with field crews or else subcontract soil drilling and sampling services from or else subcontract soil drilling and sampling services from outside consultant companies. Rotary drilling methods have outside consultant companies. Rotary drilling methods have been around for two millenia and are well-established in been around for two millenia and are well-established in geotechnical practice as a means to study soil and rock geotechnical practice as a means to study soil and rock conditions (Broms and Flodin 1988). Although drilling and conditions (Broms and Flodin 1988). Although drilling and sampling practices can be adequate, the work is manual and sampling practices can be adequate, the work is manual and time-consuming, with follow-up laboratory testing often time-consuming, with follow-up laboratory testing often adding two to four weeks for complet

adding two to four weeks for completion of results.ion of results.

For soil exploration, a modern and expedient approach is For soil exploration, a modern and expedient approach is offered by cone penetration testing (CPT), which involves offered by cone penetration testing (CPT), which involves pushing an instrumented electronic penetrometer into the soil pushing an instrumented electronic penetrometer into the soil and recording multiple measurements continuously with and recording multiple measurements continuously with depth (e.g., Schmertmann 1978a; Campanella and

depth (e.g., Schmertmann 1978a; Campanella and RobertsonRobertson 1988; Briaud and Miran 1992). By

1988; Briaud and Miran 1992). By using ASTM and interna-using ASTM and interna-tional standards, three separate measurements of tip resistance tional standards, three separate measurements of tip resistance (

(qqcc), sleeve friction (), sleeve friction ( f f ss), and porewater pressure (), and porewater pressure (uu) are ob-) are

ob-tained with depth, as depicted in Figure 1. Under certain tained with depth, as depicted in Figure 1. Under certain cir-cumstances, the tip and sleeve readings alone can suffice to cumstances, the tip and sleeve readings alone can suffice to produce a basic cone sounding that serves well for produce a basic cone sounding that serves well for delineat-ing soil stratigraphy and testdelineat-ing natural sands, sandy fills, ing soil stratigraphy and testing natural sands, sandy fills, andand soils with deep water tables. Generally, this

soils with deep water tables. Generally, this is accomplishedis accomplished using an electric cone penetration test

using an electric cone penetration test (ECPT), with readings(ECPT), with readings taken at 2 cm (0.8 in.) or

taken at 2 cm (0.8 in.) or 5 cm (2.0 in.), although a system for5 cm (2.0 in.), although a system for mechanical cone penetration testing (MCPT) is also available mechanical cone penetration testing (MCPT) is also available that is less prone to damage, but that is advanced slower and that is less prone to damage, but that is advanced slower and provides coarser resolutions using an incremental vertical provides coarser resolutions using an incremental vertical step of 20-cm (8-in.) intervals. With piezocone penetration step of 20-cm (8-in.) intervals. With piezocone penetration testing (CPTu), transducers obtain readings of penetration testing (CPTu), transducers obtain readings of penetration porewater pressur

porewater pressures that es that are paramount when conditions con-are paramount when conditions con-tain shallow groundwater conditions and fine-grained soils tain shallow groundwater conditions and fine-grained soils consisting of clays, silts, and sands with fines. The porewater consisting of clays, silts, and sands with fines. The porewater pressures at the shoulder position are required for correcting pressures at the shoulder position are required for correcting the measured

the measuredqqccto the total to the total cone tip resistance, designatedcone tip resistance, designatedqqt t ..

This is especially important in the post-processing phase This is especially important in the post-processing phase when determining soil engineering parameters; for example, when determining soil engineering parameters; for example, preconsolidation stress (

preconsolidation stress (PPcc), undrained shear strength (), undrained shear strength (ss_u_u),),

lateral stress ratio (

lateral stress ratio (K K 00), and pile side friction (), and pile side friction ( f f p p). Additional). Additional

sensors can be provided to increase the numbers and types of sensors can be provided to increase the numbers and types of

measurements taken, with Table 1 providing a quick measurements taken, with Table 1 providing a quick sum-mary of the various types of

mary of the various types of CPTs commonly available.CPTs commonly available. With CPT, results are immediately available on the With CPT, results are immediately available on the com-puter for assessment in real time by the field engineer or puter for assessment in real time by the field engineer or geologist. A 10-m (30-ft) sounding can be completed in geologist. A 10-m (30-ft) sounding can be completed in approximately 15 to 20 min, in comparison with a approximately 15 to 20 min, in comparison with a conven-tional soil boring that may take between 60 and 90 min. No tional soil boring that may take between 60 and 90 min. No spoil is generated during the CPT; thus, the method is less spoil is generated during the CPT; thus, the method is less disruptive than drilling operations. Therefore, CPTs are disruptive than drilling operations. Therefore, CPTs are espe- espe-cially advantageous when investigating environmentally cially advantageous when investigating environmentally sen-sitive areas and/or potentially contaminated sites,

sitive areas and/or potentially contaminated sites, because thebecause the workers are exposed to a minimal amount of hazardous workers are exposed to a minimal amount of hazardous ma-terial. CPTs can be advanced into most soil types, ranging terial. CPTs can be advanced into most soil types, ranging from soft clays and firm silts to dense sands and hard from soft clays and firm silts to dense sands and hard over-consolidated clays, but are not well suited to

consolidated clays, but are not well suited to gravels, cobbles,gravels, cobbles, or hard rock terrain. Soil samples are not normally obtained or hard rock terrain. Soil samples are not normally obtained during routine CPT and therefore may be a disadvantage to during routine CPT and therefore may be a disadvantage to those who rely strictly

those who rely strictly on laboratory testing for specificationson laboratory testing for specifications and state code requirements. Nevertheless, a large

and state code requirements. Nevertheless, a large amount of amount of high-quality in situ digital data can be recorded directly by high-quality in situ digital data can be recorded directly by CPT in a relatively short time in the field. These data can CPT in a relatively short time in the field. These data can sub-sequently be post-processed to provide quick

sequently be post-processed to provide quick delineations of delineations of the subsurface conditions, including layering, soil types, the subsurface conditions, including layering, soil types, andand geotechnical engineering parameters, as well as both direct geotechnical engineering parameters, as well as both direct and indirect evaluations of foundation systems, including and indirect evaluations of foundation systems, including shallow footings, driven pilings, drilled shafts, and ground shallow footings, driven pilings, drilled shafts, and ground modification.

modification.

A number of difficulties are now recognized with routine A number of difficulties are now recognized with routine drilling practices in obtaining field t

drilling practices in obtaining field test values, drive samples,est values, drive samples, and undisturbed samples (e.g., Schmertmann 1978b; Tanaka and undisturbed samples (e.g., Schmertmann 1978b; Tanaka and Tanaka 1999). During the advance of the soil boring, the and Tanaka 1999). During the advance of the soil boring, the normal practice is to secure small diameter drive samples normal practice is to secure small diameter drive samples (termed “split-spoons” or “split-barrel” samples) at 1.5-m (termed “split-spoons” or “split-barrel” samples) at 1.5-m (5-ft) vertical intervals, often in general accordance with (5-ft) vertical intervals, often in general accordance with ASTM D 1586 or AASHTO T-206 procedures for the ASTM D 1586 or AASHTO T-206 procedures for the “Stan-dard Penetration Test” (SPT). The recorded number of blows dard Penetration Test” (SPT). The recorded number of blows to drive the sampler 0.3 m (12 in.) is termed the “

to drive the sampler 0.3 m (12 in.) is termed the “ N N -value,”-value,” “blow counts,” or SPT resistance. It is well known that this “blow counts,” or SPT resistance. It is well known that this N

N -value can be severely affected by energy inefficiencies in-value can be severely affected by energy inefficiencies in the drop hammer system, as well as additional influences such the drop hammer system, as well as additional influences such as borehole diameter, hammer system, sample liner, rod as borehole diameter, hammer system, sample liner, rod length, and other factors (e.g., Fletcher 1965; Ireland et al. length, and other factors (e.g., Fletcher 1965; Ireland et al. 1970). Thus, these recorded

1970). Thus, these recorded N N -values require significant cor--values require significant cor-rections to the field measurements before they can be

rections to the field measurements before they can be used inused in engineering analysis (e.g., Robertson et al. 1983; Skempton engineering analysis (e.g., Robertson et al. 1983; Skempton

CHA

CHAPTERPTERONEONE

CPT - A Synthesis of Highway Practice (NCHRP, 2007)

Cone

Cone P

P

enetration

enetration T

T

esting

esting

A Synthesis of Highway Practice

A Synthesis of Highway Practice

RESEARCH

RESEARCH

PROGRAM

PROGRAM

NCHRP

NCHRP

SYNTHESIS 368

SYNTHESIS 368

NCHRP

NCHRP

SYNTHESIS 368

SYNTHESIS 368

Cone Penetration Testing

Cone Penetration Testing

A Synthesis of Highway Practice

A Synthesis of Highway Practice

www.national-academies.org

CONE

CONE

PENETRA

PENETRA

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TION TESTING

SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION