Interpretation of Cone Factor in Undrained Soils via Full-Penetration Finite-Element Analysis
Publication: International Journal of Geomechanics
Volume 13, Issue 6
Abstract
The cone penetration test is widely used to interpret the undrained shear strength of soil. The interpretation methods are commonly based on bearing capacity, cavity expansion, or strain-path methods. In this paper, the cone penetration test is analyzed using the large deformation FEM and contact mechanics. The full penetration process from the ground surface is modeled. The three-parameter Tresca model is used to represent the undrained soil behavior in a total stress analysis, to derive a cone factor equation for interpretation of the undrained shear strength. This equation is then compared with existing solutions in the literature as well as experimental data. The complexities that arise in more sophisticated soil models are elaborated in an effective stress analysis using the Modified Cam Clay model.
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Published In
International Journal of Geomechanics
Volume 13 • Issue 6 • December 2013
Pages: 745 - 753
Copyright
© 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Mar 22, 2012
Accepted: Dec 10, 2012
Published online: Dec 12, 2012
Published in print: Dec 1, 2013
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