Miniature Cone Penetration Tests in Soft and Stiff Clays

Abstract An electric continuous intrusion miniature cone penetration test system was recently developed for roadway design and construction control of embankments. The system continuously advances a 2 cm2 electric miniature cone penetrometer by uncoiling a stainless steel push rod. Field and laboratory testing programs were conducted on overconsolidated, normally consolidated, and compacted Louisiana clays. The field testing program consisted of cone penetration tests using both 2 and 15 cm2 electric cone penetrometers in conjunction with soil sampling, while laboratory tests included physical properties and strength characteristics of the investigated soils. Analyses of cone penetration tests were conducted to assess the repeatability and reliability, as well as confirming that the electric miniature friction cone output is in compliance with output of the 15 cm2 cone.