In Situ Foundation Characterization Using the Dynamic Cone Penetrometer

The Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) is a test device used for measuring the strength and variability oh unbound layers of soil and granular material. The DCP is not a new test device, but transportation organizations in Canada and the United Stales, including the Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP), have shown a renewed interest in its unique capability of measuring a profile of in situ foundation characteristics. A desire to more fully characterize subsurface conditions on the Minnesota Road Research Project (Mn/ROAD) led to the initial use of DCP by Mn/DOT. From an operational perspective it is very attractive because the DCP is both portable and simple to use.

The objective of this research was to explore ways that IXP's could effectively be used by Minnesota pavement and materials engineers and to perform the testing, analysis, and learning necessary for establishing relationships between DCF' test results and other commonly used foundation parameters.

This paper describes the design and operation of the DCP as well as an overview of the theoretical basis for use of the device. In addition, correlation results, data profiles, case histories and related information are presented.