Interpretation of centrifuge CPT data in normally consolidated silica and carbonate sands

This paper presents the results from a systematic investigation into the effects of stress level, penetrometer diameter, penetration depth and relative density on the end resistance (q(c)) measured in centrifuge-scale cone penetration tests (CPTs) in a variety of normally consolidated siliceous and carbonate sands. Simple empirical formulations are developed that provide a good description of all measurements and that are consistent with expressions developed in calibration chambers and at field scale. The formulations address the significant discrepancies seen between centrifuge and field scale q(c) profiles and enable development of q(c)-based correlations for centrifuge tests that are applicable at full scale, as well as providing a means to interpret very shallow CPTs in the field.

Automated summary

This study systematically investigates the effects of stress level, penetrometer diameter, penetration depth, and relative density on the end resistance measured in centrifuge-scale cone penetration tests. Empirical formulations are developed to provide a good description of the measurements and enable correlations that are applicable at full scale. These formulations address the discrepancies seen between centrifuge and field scale measurements and provide a means to interpret very shallow CPTs in the field.