Assessment of Spatial Variability in Ground Models Using Mini-Cone Penetration Testing

Abstract

The assessment of spatial variability in the ground through field experiments has many constraints due to non-homogenous ground conditions and lack of site investigations. For this reason, spatial variability has not been considered in typical analyses. Also, few studies have been conducted on ground spatial variability using models in the laboratory. However, it is necessary to evaluate spatial variability in the ground for more precise analysis and design of construction projects. In this study, in order to evaluate spatial variability in the ground, we performed a number of Mini-Cone Penetration Tests (CPTs) in ground models with one layer of silica sand soil and two layers of silica and weathered soils. Through the Mini-CPTs, cone penetration resistances with depth were measured at many points. Based on the data, the coefficient of variation (CV) and the correlation length (CL) were calculated to quantitatively analyze the vertical and horizontal variability in the ground models. The results showed how the spatial variability in the two ground models varied. This implies that considering spatial variability in the ground can significantly enhance the accuracy of the analysis and design of construction projects.