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Chapter 1
Introduction
Preface
| PREFACE 1.1 Cone penetration testing (CPT) is the most versatile device for in situ soil testing. Without disturbing the ground, it provides information about soil type, geotechnical parameters like shear strength, density, elastic modulus, rates of consolidation and environmental properties. Further, as it can be seen as a small scale test pile, it is the best and most costeffective device to design piled foundations and sheet piles. The book describes more than 25 special probes, samplers and instrumentation devices. Most of them are for use on land, but many can also be deployed at sea. To name a few; there is a seismic cone, a chemical sounding probe, a hydrocarbon probe, a video cone, a cone for bomb detection and many others. Using CPT rigs makes it possible to take soil samples at a specified depth. The hydraulic rams push the sampler, with the cutting mouth closed, into the ground. After opening the mouth at a certain depth and pushing forward, the sample is taken into a lining stocking and retrieved. This guide describes the practice of in-situ subsoil testing on land and at sea. It gives information on land-based rigs, sea-bed platforms, underwater vehicles and vessels. The appendices give worked examples for the design of piles and shallow foundations. Design should be carried out by qualified engineers with enough experience and local knowledge. The design methods shown in the appendices must only be used alongside existing practice.Hans Brouwer Iden, East Sussex January 2007 |