Objective Site Characterization Using Clustering of Piezocone Data
Publication: Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 128, Issue 12
Abstract
Cluster analysis is a statistical method for grouping similar mathematical data sets and is used herein for delineating geostratigraphy from piezocone penetration test data. In terms of site characterization, clustering is an improvement over other statistical methods because no preliminary estimation of the inherent groups within the analyzed data is needed, and no overlapping is permitted between identified clusters. Clustering can accommodate single or multivariables and no data filtering is required. Its application to defining stratigraphic interfaces is illustrated using five case studies with layered profiles. Clustering is able to detect major changes within the stratigraphy not apparent by visually examining the trends of piezocone data or by available cone soil classification methods.
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Published In
Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 128 • Issue 12 • December 2002
Pages: 986 - 996
Copyright
Copyright © 2002 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: May 30, 2001
Accepted: Mar 20, 2002
Published online: Nov 15, 2002
Published in print: Dec 2002
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