DRAFT FOR DEVELOPMENT DD ENV

1997-3:2000
Inciwpomting
Corrigendurn No. 1

Eurocode 7:
Geotechnical design -
Part 3: Design assisted by fieldtesting

ICS 91.010.30; 93.020

NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMI'ITED BY COPYRIGHT LAW

DD ENV 1997-3:2000

National foreword
This Draft for Development is the official Engllsh language version of
ENV 19973:1999.
This publication is not to be regarded as a British Standard.
It is being issued in the Draft for Developmentseries of publications and is of a
provisional nature. It should be applied on this provisional basis so that information
and experience of its practical application may be obtained. This document does
not have a parallel British Standard and, therefore, it has been published for use in
the United Kingdom (UK) without any National Application Document.
ENV 19973:1999 results from a programme of work sponsored by the European
Commissionto make available a common set of rules for the structural and
geotechnical design of buildings and civil engineering works. The full range of codes
covers the basis of design and actions, the design of structures in concrete, steel,
composite comtmction,timber, masonry and aluminium alloy, and geotechnical and
seismic design.
Comments arising from the use of this Draft for Development are requested so that
the UK experience can be reported to the European organization responsible for its
conversion into a European Standard. A review of this publication will be initiated
2 years after its publication by the European organization so that a decision can be
taken on its status at the end of its three-year life. The commencement of the review
period will be notified by an announcement in Update Standards.
According to the replies received by the end of the review period, the responsible
BSI Committee will decide whether to support the conversion into a European
Standard,to extend the life of the prestandard or to withdraw it. Comments should
be sent in writing to the Secretary of BSI SubcommitteeB/526/3, Soil tests,at
389 Chiswick High Road, London W4 4AL, giving the document reference and
clause number and proposing, where possible, an appropriate revision of the text.
A listof organizationsrepresented on this subcommittee can be obtained on request
to its secretary.
Cross-references
The British Standardswhich implement international or European publications
referred to in this document may be found in the BSI Standards Catalogue under the
section entitled “InternationalStandards Correspondence Index”,or by using the
“Find”facility of the BSI Standards Eleckonic Catalogue.

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, the ENV title page,
pages 2 to 146, an inside back cover and a back cover.
The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the document
was last issued.
This Draft for Development,
having been prepared under the
direction of the Sector Amendments issued since publication
Committee for Building and Civil
Engineering, was published under
the authority of the Standards
Amd. No.
ID* lComments
Committee and comes into effect
on 15 April 2000

0 BSI 10-2000
12051
Conigendum
No. 1
October
12000 I Corrections to page numbers throughout contents

ISBN 0 680 34719 2

EUROPEAN PRESTANDARD ENV 1997-3
PRENORMEEUROPEENNE
EUROPAISCHE VORNORM July 1999

ICS 91.080.01; 93.020

English version

Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design - Part 3: Design assisted by

fieldtesting
-
Eurocode7: Calcul gbotechnique Partie 3: Calcul sur la Eurocode 7: Entwurf. Berechnung und Bemessung in der
base dessais en place -
Geotechnik Teil3: Felduntersuchungen fljr die
geotechnische Bemessung

This European Prestandard (ENV) was approved by CEN on 30 July 1997 as a prospective standard for provisional application.

The period of validity of this ENV is limited initially to three years. Aner two years the members of CEN will be requested to submit their
comments, particularly on the question whether the ENV can be converted into a European Standard.

CEN members are required to announce the existence of this ENV in the same way as for an EN and to make the ENV available promptly
at national level in an appropriate form. It Is permissible to keep conflicting national standards in force (in parallel to the ENV) until the final
decision about the possible conversion of the ENV into an EN is reached.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland. France, Germany, Greece.
Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.

EUROPEAN COMMIITEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITB E U R O P ~ E ND E N O R M A L I S A T I O N
EUROPAISCHES KOMITEE FOR N O R M U N G

Central Secretarlat: rua de Stassart, 36 8-1050 Brussels

0 1999 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. ENV 1997-3:1999 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
Page 2
ENV 1997-3:1999

page:

FOREWORD 8

1 GENERAL 10
1.1 Scope 10
1.I
.I Scope of Eurocode 7 10
1.I
.2 Scope of ENV 1997-3 11
1.I
.3 Limitations 11
I.2 References 11
1.3 Distinction between Principles and Application Rules 11
1.4 Definitions 12
1.4.1 Defenitions common to all Eurocodes 12
1.4.2 Definitions used in Eurocode 7 12
1.4.3 Definitions used in ENV 1997-3 12
1.5 Symbols and units 14
1.5.1 Symbols common to all Eurocodes 14
1.5.2 Symbols and units used in Eurocode 7 14
1.6 The link between ENV 1997-1 and ENV 1997-3 15

2 PLANNING OF SITE INVESTIGATIONS 16

2.1 General 16
2.2 Definitions 20
2.3 Preliminary investigations for positioning of a
structure and preliminary design 21
2.4 Investigations for design and construction 22
2.5 Control Investigations 23
2.6 Reporting of site investigations 23
2.7 Evaluation of site investigations 24
2.7.1 Evaluation of the preliminary investigations 24
2.7.2 Evaluation of investigations for design and construction 24

3 CONE PENETRATION AND PIUOCONE TESTS CPT(U) - 26

3.1 General 26
3.2 Definitions 26
3.3 Equipment 28
3.3.1 Apparatus 28
3.3.2 Measuring equipment 29
3.4 Test procedure 30
3.4.1 Calibrations and checks 30
3.4.2 Performing the test 30
3.5 Interpretation of the results 30
3.6 Reporting of the results 31
3.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters 31
3.7.1 Derived values for calculations of bearing capacity and settlement
of spread foundations 31
3.7.2 Pile foundations 32

4 PRESSUREMETER TEST (PMT) 33

4.1 General 33
4.2 Definitions 33
4.3 Equipment 35
4.3.1 Apparatus 35
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ENV 1997-311999

page:

4.3.2 Measuring equipment 36

4.4 Test procedure 36
4.4.1 Calibrations 36
4.4.2 Installation 37
4.4.3 Testing procedure 38
4.5 Interpretation 39
4.5.1 Data reduction of pressuremeter tests 39
4.5.2 Interpretation of the Menard test 39
4.6 Reporting the results 40
4.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters 41
4.7.1 Derived values for the calculation of bearing capacity resistance
of spread foundations 41
4.7.2 Derived values for the calculation of settlement of spread foundations 42
4.7.3 Pile foundations 42

5 STANDARD PENETRATION TEST (SPT) 43

5.1 General 43
5.2 Definitions 43
5.3 Equipment 44
5.3.1 Boring equipment 44
5.3.2 Sampler 44
5.3.3 Drive rods 44
5.3.4 Drive weight assembly 44
5.4 Test Procedure 45
5.4.1 Preparation of the borehole 45
5.4.2 Penetration test 45
5.5 Interpretation of the results 45
5.5.1 Introduction 45
5.5.2 Energy delivered to the drive rods 45
5.5.3 Energy losses due to the length of rods 46
5.5.4 Effect of overburden pressure in sands 46
5.5.5 Other correction factors 47
5.5.6 Use of the correction factors 47
5.6 Reporting of results 47
5.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters 48
5.7.1 General criteria 48
5.7.2 Bearing capacity in sands 48
5.7.3 Settlement of spread foundations in sand 49
5.7.4 Pile foundations in sand 49

6 DYNAMIC PROBING TEST (DP) 50

6.1 General 50
6.2 Definitions 51
6.3 Equipment 51
6.3.1 Cone 51
6.3.2 Drive rods 51
6.3.3 Driving device 52
6.4 Test procedure 53
6.5 Interpretation of test results 53
6.6 Reporting of results 54
6.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters 54
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ENV 1997-3:1999

page:

7 WEIGHT SOUNDING TEST (WST) 55

7.1 General 55
7.2 Definitions 55
7.3 Equipment 55
7.3.1 Penetrometer tip 55
7.3.2 Weights or loading system 56
7.3.3 Rods 56
7.4 Test procedure 57
7.4.1 Use of preboring and casing 57
7.4.2 Manual weight sounding 57
7.4.3 Mechanized weight sounding 57
7.5 Interpretation of test results 57
7.6 Reporting of the test results 58
7.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters 58

8 FIELD VANE TEST (FVT) 59

8.1 General 59
8.2 Definitions 59
8.3 Equipment 60
8.3.1 Vane 60
8.3.2 Extension rods 61
8.3.3 Equipment for rotation and recording instrument 61
8.4 Test procedure 61
8.4.1 Predrilling and pushing down the vane 61
8.4.2 Vane shear test 62
8.5 Interpretation of test results 62
8.6 Reporting of the results 63
8.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters 63

9 FLAT DILATOMETER TEST (DMT) 64

9.1 General 64
9.2 Definitions 64
9.2.1 Equipment and testing procedure 64
9.2.2 DMT parameters 66
9.3 Equipment 66
9.3.1 Dilatometer equipment 66
9.3.2 Insertion apparatus 67
9.4 Test procedure 67
9.4.1 Calibration and checks 67
9.4.2 Membrane calibration procedure 68
9.4.3 Performing the test 68
9.5 Interpretation of the results 69
9.6 Reporting of the results 69
9.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters 70
9.7.1 Bearing capacity of spread foundations 70
9.7.2 Settlement of spread foundations 70
9.7.3 Pile foundations 70

10 ROCK DILATOMETER TEST (RDT) 71

10.1 General 71
10.2 Definitions 71
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ENV 1997-3:1999

page:

10.2.1 Dilatometer probe and testing apparatus 71

10.2.2 Symbols of dilatometer parameters 72
10.3 Equipment 72
10.3.1 Drilling equipment 72
10.3.2 Pressurizing system 73
10.3.3 Measuring system 73
10.3.4 Calibration equipment 73
10.3.5 Dilatometer probe 73
10.4 Test procedure 74
10.4.1 Calibration and checks 74
10.4.2 Performing the test 74
10.5 Interpretation of the results . 75
10.6 Reporting of the results 77
10.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters 77

11 PLATE LOADING TEST (PLT) 78

11.1 General 78
11.2 Definitions 78
11.3 Equipment 78
11.3.1 Apparatus 78
11.3.2 Measuring equipment 80
11.4 Test procedure 80
11.4.1 Pre-test explorations of ground conditions 80
11.4.2 Calibration and checks 80
11.4.3 Preparation of test area 81
11.4.4 Preparation and setting up of loading and measuring apparatus 81
11.4.5 Loading test 81
11.5 Interpretation of the results 82
11.6 Reporting of results 83
11.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters 83

12 SOIL SAMPLING 85
12.1 General 85
12.2 Categories and concepts 85
12.2.1 Categories of sampling methods 85
12.2.2 Area ratio and inside clearance of the sample tube 85
12.2.3 Techniques for sampling 87
12.2.4 Quality classes of soil samples related to sampling catagories 87
12.3 Equipment 87
12.3.1 Basic requirements for samplers 87
12.3.2 Requirements for drive samplers 88
12.4 Sampling procedure 89
12.4.1 Selection of sampling method 89
12.4.2 Drive sampling operation 90
12.4.3 Handling and storing of samples 90
12.5 Reporting on boring and sampling 91
12.5.1 Boring record 91
12.5.2 Labeling of samples 91
12.5.3 Sampling report 91
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ENV 1997-311999

page:

13 ROCK SAMPLING 92
13.1 General 92
13.2 Definitions 92
13.2.1 Sampling categories 92
13.2.2 Visual rock identification in the field 92
13.2.3 Rock recovery 93
13.2.4 Area ratio and inside clearance of the sample tube 93
13.3 Equipment 93
13.3.1 Basic requirements for samplers 93
13.3.2 Techniques for sampling 93
13.3.3 Requirements for rotary samplers 94
13.4 Rotary sampling 95
13.4.1 Rotary sampling operation 95
13.4.2 Preservation, handling and storage of core samplers 95
13.5 Reporting of the core sampling operation 96
13.5.1 Labelling, preservation and handling of core samples 96
13.5.2 Boring report 96

14 GROUNDWATER MEASUREMENTS IN SOILS AND ROCK 98

14.1 General 98
14.2 Definitions 98
14.3 Equipment 99
14.3.1 General 99
14.3.2 Basic requirements 100
14.4 Test procedure 101
14.4.1 Installation 101
14.4.2 Measurements 101
14.5 Interpretation of groundwater measurements 102
14.6 Reporting of groundwater measurements 102
14.7 Derived values of groundwater or pore pressures 103

ANNEXES

A Example of a flow chart for the selection of

ground investigation methods in different phases 104

B.1 CPT: example of derived values for the angle of

shearing resistance and drained Young's modulus 105
8.2 CPT: example of a settlement calculation for
spread foundations 106
B.3 CPT: example of a correlation between oedometer
modulus and cone resistance 107
8.4 CPT: example of the calculation of the bearing
resistance of a single pile 108

c.1 PMT: example of the calculation of the bearing

resistance of spread foundations 112
c.2 PMT: example of the calculation of the settlements of spread foundations 113
c.3 PMT: example of calculations of the ultimate bearing
resistance of piles 114
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ENV 1997-3:1999

page:

D.l SPT: example of the energy correction factors 116

D.2 SPT: examples of correlations between blow counts
and density indices 117
D.3 SPT: example of derived values for the angle of
shearing resistance 119
D.4 SPT: example of a settlement calculation of spread foundations 120

E.l DP: example of derived values for the density index 122
E.2 DP: example of derived values for the angle of
shearing resistance 123
E.3 DP: example of derived values for the oedometer modulus 124

F WST: example of derived values for the angle of shearing

resistance and drained Young's modulus 125

G FVT: examples of correction factors for the undrained

shear strength 126

H DMT: example of correlations between Eoadand

DMT results 128

1.1 PLT: example of derived values for the undrained

shear strength 129
1.2 PLT: example of derived values for the plate
settlement modulus 130
1.3 PLT: example of derived values for the coefficient
of subgrade reaction 132
I.4 PLT: example of settlement calculations 133

J Examples of sampling methods 135

K Example of rock weathering classification 137

L Guidelines for groundwater measurements 138

M Bibliography 144
Page 8
ENV 1997-3:1999

FOREWORD
Objectives of the Eurocodes

(1) The structural Eurocodes comprise a group of standards for the structural and geotechnical
design of buildings and civil engineering works.

(2) They are intended to serve as reference documents for the following purposes:

a) As a means to prove compliance of building and civil engineering works with the essential
requirements of the Construction Products Directive (CPD)
b) As a framework for drawing up harmonised technical specifications for construction products.

(3) They cover execution and control only to the extent that is necessary to indicate the quality of the
construction products, and the standard of the workmanship, needed to comply with the assumptions
of the design rules.
(4) Until the necessary set of harmonised technical specifications for products and for methods of
testing their performance is available, some of the Structural Eurocodes cover some of these aspects
in informative annexes.

Background to the Eurocode programme

(5) The Commission of the European Communities (CEC) initiated the work of establishing a set of
harmonisedtechnical rules for the design of building and civil engineering works which would initially
serve as an alternative to the different rules in force in the various Member States and would
ultimately replace them. These technical rules became known as the "Structural Eurocodes'.

(6) In 1990, afler consulting their respective Member States, the CEC transferred work of further
development, issue and updates of the Structural Eurocodes to CEN and the EFTA Secretariat
agreed to support the CEN work.

(7) CEN Technical Committee CEN/TC 250 is responsible for all Structural Eurocodes.

Eurocode programme
(8) Work is in hand on the following Structural Eurocodes, each generally consisting of a number of
parts:

EN 1991 Eurocode 1 Basis of design and actions on structures

EN 1992 Eurocode 2 Design of concrete structures
EN 1993 Eurocode 3 Design of steel structures
EN 1994 Eurocode 4 Design of composite steel and concrete structures
EN 1995 Eurocode 5 Design of timber structures
EN 1996 Eurocode 6 Design of masonry structures
EN 1997 Eurocode 7 Geotechnical design
EN 1998 Eurocode 8 Design of structures for earthquake resistance
EN 1999 Eurocode 9 Design of aluminium alloy structures.
 Page 9
ENV 1997-3:1999

(9) Separate sub-committees have been formed by CEN/TC 250 for the various Eurocodes listed
above.

(10) This part of the Structural Eurocode for Geotechnical design, is being issued by CEN as a
European Prestandard (ENV) with an initial life of three years.

(11) This Prestandard is intended for experimental practical application in the design of the building
and civil engineering works covered by the scope as given in 1.1.2 and for the submission of
comments.

(12) After approximately two years CEN members will be invited to submit formal comments to be
taken into account in determining future action.

(13) Meanwhile, feedback and comments on this Prestandardshould be sent to the Secretariat of
sub-committee CEN/TC250/SC7 at the following address:

NNI
P.0.Box 5059
NL-2600 GB Delft
The Netherlands

or to a national standards organisation.

National application documents

(14) In view of the responsibilitiesof authorities in member countries for the safety, health and other
matters covered by the essential requirements of the CPD, certain safety elements in this ENV have
been assigned indicative values which are identified by [..I. The authorities in each member country
are expected to assign definitive values to these safety elements.

(15) Many of the supporting standards, including those giving values for actions to be taken into
account and measures required for fire protection, will not be available by the time this Prestandard is
issued. It is therefore anticipated that a National Application Document giving definitive values for
safety elements, referencing compatible supporting standards and giving national guidance on the
application of this Prestandard will be issued by each Member State or its Standard Organisation.
This Prestandardshould be used in conjunction with the National Application Document valid in the
country where the building and civil engineering works is to be constructed.
It is intended that this Prestandard is used in conjunction with the NAD valid in the country where the
building or civil engineering works are located.

Matters specific to this prestandard

(16) This prestandard is intended to serve as a reference document for the use of field tests for
geotechnical design. It covers the execution and interpretation of the most commonly used field tests.
This prestandardaims at ensuring that adequate quality is reached in the execution of field tests and
their interpretation.

(17) In the framework of European Standardization, Eurocode 7 Part 1 on design of geotechnical

structures has been established. The link between the general requirements for the design such as
stated in ENV 1997-1 and the existing standards, codes and other types of generally accepted
documents for operating field investigations is covered by Eurocode 7 Part 3: "Geotechnical design
assisted by field tests". Eurocode 7 Part 3 in particular addresses some of the requirementsof ENV
-
1997 Part 1, especially section 3: 'Geotechnical data'.

(18) ENV 1997-3 does not replace standards for equipment and performance of different test
methods, but provides basic requirements for such standards.

(19) Section 2 of ENV 1997-3 gives general requirements with respect to planning of field and
laboratory investigations.This section serves as a common section of both Eurocode 7
Parts 2 and 3.
Page 10
ENV 1997-3:1999

1 GENERAL
1.1 Scope

1.1.1 Scope of Eurocode 7

(l)P Eurocode 7 applies to the geotechnical aspects of the design of buildings and civil engineering
works. It is subdivided into various separate parts. (see 1.1.2)

(2)P Eurocode 7 is concerned with the requirementsfor strength, stability, serviceability and durability
of the structures. Other requirements, e.g. concerning thermal or sound insulation, are not
considered.

(3)P Eurocode 7 shall be used in conjunction with ENV 1991-1 Eurocode 1 "Basis of Design and
Actions on Structures". Part 1 : "Basis of Design", which establishes the principles and requirements
for safety and serviceability, describes the basis for design and verification and gives guidelines for
related aspects of structural reliability.

(4)P Eurocode 7 gives the rules to calculate actions originating from the ground such as earth
pressures. Numerical values of actions on buildings and civil engineering works to be taken into
account in the design are provided in ENV 1991 Eurocode 1 "Basis of Design and Actions on
Structures" applicable to the various types of construction.

(5)P In Eurocode 7 execution is covered to the extent that is necessary to indicate the quality of the
construction materials and products which should be used and the standard of workmanship on site
needed to comply with the assumptions of the design rules. Generally, the rules related to execution
and workmanship are to be considered as minimum requirements which may have to be further
developed for particular types of buildings or civil engineering works and methods of construction.

(6)P Eurocode 7 does not cover the special requirementsof seismic design. Eurocode 8, "Design
provisions for earthquake resistance of structures" provides additional rules for seismic design which
complete or adapt the rules of this prestandard.

1.1.2 Scope of ENV 1997-3

(l)P In addition to ENV 1997-1 the scope of ENV 1997-3 is to provide for a number of commonly
used field tests:

a) requirements for the equipment and test procedures;

b) requirements for the reporting and the presentation of test results;
c) interpretation of test results.

(2)P Part 3 shall serve as a link between the design requirementsof Part 1 and the results of a
number of field tests. Therefore part of the scope is to give:

d) examples on how to derive values of geotechnical parameters from the test results.

(3)P ENV 1997-3 shall be used in conjunction with ENV 1997-1.

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ENV 1997-3:1999

1.1.3 Limitations

(l)P The derivation of parameter values is dedicated primarily to the design of pile and spread
foundations as elaborated in the annexes B, C, D, and E of ENV 1997-1.

(2)P The scope of ENV 1997-3 does not cover the following:

- the assessment of characteristic values;

- environmental geotechnics, chemical investigationsor the environmental impact of structures;
- geohydrologicaltests e.g. pumping tests.

1.2 References

(l)P This European Prestandard incorporates by dated or undated reference, provisionsfrom other
standards. These normative references are cited at the appropriate places in the text and the
publications are listed hereafter. For dated references, subsequent amendments to or revisions of
any of these publications apply to this Prestandard only when incorporated in it by amendment or
revision.

ENV 1991-1~1994 Eurocode 1 Basis of design and actions constructures

Part 1 Basis of design
ENV 1997-1~1994 Eurocode 7 Geotechnical design Part 1 General rules
ENV 1997-2~1998 Eurocode 7 Geotechnical design
Part 2 Design assisted by laboratory testing
IS0 3898:1997 Basis for design of structures. Notations. General symbols

1.3 Distinction between Principles and Application Rules

(l)P Depending on the character of the individual paragraphs, distinction is made in this prestandard
between Principles and Application Rules.

(2)P The Principles comprise:

-general statements and definitions for which there is no alternative, as well as;
-requirements and analytical models for which no alternative is permitted unless specifically stated.

(3)P The Principles are preceded by the letter P.

(4)P The Application Rules are examples of generally recognised rules which follow the Principles
and satisfy their requirements.

(5)P It is permissible to use alternative rules different from the Application Rules given in this
Eurocode, provided it is shown that the alternative rules accord with the relevant Principles.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

1.4 Definitions

1.4.1 Defenitions common to all Eurocodes

(l)PThe terms used in common for all Eurocodes are defined in ENV 1991-1.
1.4.2 Definitions used in Eurocode 7

(l)PFor terms which are specific to Eurocode 7 reference is made to 1.5.2of ENV 1997-1.
1.4.3 Definitions used in ENV 1997-3

(1) In sections 3 to 14 specific definitions relating to that section are given.

(2) For the purpose of this prestandardthe following terms apply:

1.4.3.1 derived value: value of a geotechnical parameter obtained by theory, correlation

or empiricism from test results. Derived values form the basis for the selection of
characteristic values of ground properties to be used for the design of geotechnical
structures, in accordance with 2.4.3 of ENV 1997-1.

1.4.3.1.1 Concept of derived values

(1) The concept of 'derived values' is elaborated as a way to link test results to geotechnical
parameters. From the test results the values for geotechnical parameters for the use in
analytical methods and coefficients for the use in semi-empirical or direct methods may be
arrived at through:

- results of field tests -----> through correlations -> Q

! aeotechnicalDarameter values

- results of lab. tests _--._-_________----_-----------------

> to aeotechnical parameter values

-----> through correlations

with other tests ---> t p

These values of the geotechnical parameters and/or coefficients, arrived at through, for example
correlations, are called 'derived values'.

(2) ENV 1997-3provides a set of examples of derived values for geotechnical parameters. From this
the characteristic and the design values according to the requirementsof ENV 1997-1have to be
established.

(3) The concept of 'derived values' is as follows: assume a homogeneous zone of ground governing
the behaviour of a geotechnical structure. Assume that two types of field tests are carried out (see
Fig. 1 .l): five Cone Penetration Tests (CPT) and five pressuremetertests (gives &), and assume
five laboratory tests to establish the undrained shear strength. From the five (over the depth of the
layer averaged) CPT values and Flu values from pressuremetertests, the following sets of derived
values are established through certain correlations with the undrained shear strength:
 Page 13
ENV 1997-3:1999

C, scale in kPa

c,from laboratory tests, theoretically

evaluated

Figure 1.1 Concept of derived values

(4) From these three sets of derived values for the undrained shear strength of a homogeneous soil
mass, the characteristic value to be used in the design has to be assessed.

1.4.3.1.2 Correlations

(1) The examples in the annexes,to subclauses #.7 of this prestandard, are based on various
correlations obtained from the literature. These correlations may correlate a geotechnical parameter
derived value either with a measured value, for example the q-value of a CPT, or with a corrected
value, for example the q-value of a CPTU being the g-value corrected for the measured excess
pore pressure.

(2) Apart from this, the correlation may connect a geotechnical parameter derived value either with
the mean value of the measuredcorrectedvalue or a conservative estimate of the
measuredcorrected value (see Fig 1.2).

geotechnical ‘mean’ correlation

parameter
derived ‘conservative estimate’ correlation
value

~ ~~

measuredkorrectedvalue

Figure 1.2 Types of correlatlon

Page 14
ENV 1997-3:1999

(3) Each subclause #.7 of the tests covered by ENV 1997-3gives examples on how to derive values
of geotechnical parameters or coefficients in direct methods. In the examples in the annexes, the
subclauses #.7 of ENV 1997-3refer to, either 'mean' or 'conservative' correlations are used.
Sometimes the correlation can even be
meant as a correlation of a geotechnical parameter and the characteristic value of
the measuredkorrected value. Normally the type of correlation is unknown. Also the theory used to
determine a soil parameter value may differ between references and are not always presented in
the references. In evaluating the examples in the annexes this should be kept in mind. If the type of
correlation is known, this is indicated in the annexes.

1.4.3.2 excess pore pressure: the pore water pressure over and above the equilibrium
pore pressure at the end of the consolidation

1.5 Symbols and units

1.5.1 Symbols common to all Eurocodes

(l)P The symbols used in common for all Eurocodes are defined in ENV 1991-1 "Basis of design"

1.5.2 Symbols and units used in Eurocode 7

(l)P The symbols commonly used in ENV 1997-3are defined in each section. Other symbols are
defined where they are used locally in the text.

(2)P The units recommendedfor geotechnical calculations are defined in 1.6of

ENV 1997-1.

(3) The symbols follow the rules given in IS0 3898.

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ENV 1997-3~1999

1.6 The link between ENV 1997-1 and ENV 1997-3

(1) The flow chart shown below demonstrates the link between design and field and laboratory tests.
Design is covered by ENV 1997-1; the parameter values part is covered by ENV 1997-2 and ENV
1997-3.

- limit state
--
- geotechnical category
- partial factors
- characteristic values %

which .ype
of test ?

parameter
values

I I

derived values of through correlations field tests }

ground properties . requirements
(parameters) or directly lab. tests }

Figure 1.3 Flowchart geotechnical design

Page 16
ENV 1997-3~1999

2 PLANNING OF SITE INVESTIGATIONS

2.1 General

(l)P Site investigations consist of desk studies, field and laboratory investigations
and all other investigations performed in order to establish knowledge of the ground; soil, rock and
groundwater conditions, and to determine the properties of the soil
and rock. Site investigations may also include appraisal of existing constructions, tunnels,
embankments and slopes and the environmental impact of the project.

(2) Ground investigations are normally performed in phases depending on the questions raised during
planning, design and construction of the actual project, see 3.2.1 of ENV 1997-1, The following
phases are treated separately in this section:

- preliminary investigations for positioning and preliminary design of the structure, see 2.3;
- investigations for design and construction, see 2.4;
- control investigations, see 2.5.
(3) The provisions in this document are planned primarily for geotechnical category 2 projects (see
2.1 of ENV 1997-1) and based on the fact that the results from investigations recommended in one
phase are available before the next phase is started. In cases where all investigations are performed
at the same time, both 2.3 and 2.4 should be considered simultaneously.

(4) The ground investigation requirements for category 1 projects are normally
limited as the verifications often will be based on local experience. For category 3 projects the amount
of investigations required will normally be at least the same as indicated for category 2 projects in the
following sections. In addition complementary investigations related to the circumstances that place
the project in category 3 may apply.

(5)P The composition and the extent of each phase of the investigationsshall be based on the
following:

-the topographical, geological and hydrogeological conditions on the site and pertinent available
information about them;
-the type and design of the construction, e.g. type of foundation, improvement method or retaining
structure, location and depth of the construction;
-the local experience and climate conditions.

(6)P When composing the investigation programme both for field and laboratory tests, the knowledge
from desk studies of the following documents, if available, and the results of a site examination shall
be accounted for (see 3.2.3 of ENV 1997-1):

- topographical maps;
- old city maps describing the previous use of the site;
- geological maps and descriptions;
- engineering geological maps;
- geohydrological maps and descriptions;
- geotechnical maps;
- aerial photos and previous photo interpretations;
- aerogeophysical investigations;
- previous investigations at the site and in the surroundings;
- previous experiences from the area;
 Page 17
ENV 1997-3~1999

(7)P the use of preliminary investigations shall be considered.

(8) The extent of direct field investigationsand sampling with subsequent classificationand laboratory
testing depends on the geology, type of structure and the local experience.

(9)PThe preliminary investigations shall be planned in such a way that adequate data are obtained,
when applicable, concerning:

- the overall stability of the area;

- suitable positioning of the structure;
- possible foundation methods and ground improvements;
- possible effects to neighbouringbuildings;
- preliminary costs for foundations and ground improvements;
- preliminary costs for provisional constructions;
- proposals for design investigation.
For planning and execution of preliminary investigations reference is made to 2.3.

(1O)P Investigations for the design and construction phase shall provide sufficient information to the
following questions, when applicable:

- location of construction;
- foundation methods and levels;
- erosion protection;
- protection against swelling and shrinkage;
- ground improvements or other stabilizing measures;
- foundation design;
- design of temporary constructions;
- excavatability;
- driveability for piles;
- drainages and filters;
- frost susceptibility;
- methods and order of construction/operations;
- requirements for the selection of filling material;
- slope inclination;
- existing hindrance such as old constructions and service pipes and cables;
- durability of construction material in the ground.
For planning and execution of investigationsfor design and construction reference is made to 2.4.

(11)Annex A provides a flow chart which can be used for the selection of a proper fieldinvestigation
method for the various soil investigation stages.

(12)PWhere construction elements are applied in the geotechnical structures of which the durability
may be affected by the surrounding soil and goundwater, the aggressivenessof the soil and
groundwater shall be determined, to enable provisions when applicable, (see 2.3 of ENV 1997-1).

(13)To determine the aggressiveness of the ground and groundwater a selection of chemical
analyses often should be undertaken and the results compared to available experience on the
aggressiveness to various construction materials and protectiontechniques. Chemical analyses often
require groundwater sampling and thus special provisions in the borehole.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

(14)P The results of the desk studies and the site inspection shall be considered,
when locating the various investigation points. Investigations shall be targeted at points representing
the variation in ground conditions for soil, rock and groundwater.

(15)P In cases where more than one type of investigation shall be made at a certain location (e.g.
CPT-test and piston sampling), the boreholes shall be placed at least 2 m apart.

(16)P The depth of investigation shall include all relevant layers for the actual geotechnical design.

(17)P The selection of the location of boreholes and test pits shall take account of possible adverse
effects on the integrity of the construction to be built and neighbouring structures and shall minimize
the probability of harmfull environmental effects.

(18)P The class and number of samples shall be based on the aim and status of the soil
investigations, on the geology of the site and on the complexity of the geotechnical structure and of
the construction to be designed.

(19)P Sampling shall be done in accordance with sections 12 and 13.

(20) Where lamination or fine stratification of the subsoil can influence the geotechnical design,
consideration should be given to the use of continuous boring with open tube sampler or core drilling.
Additional samples may be taken with e.g. a short open tube sampler, a fixed piston sampler or a
block sampler.

(21) In case there is no stratification or no influence from stratification, in coarse soils, samples from
auger or bailer may be sufficient. In clays and organic soils high quality samples should be taken with
special equipment.

(22) Laboratory investigations for classification purposes and determination of the properties of the
soil or rock should be performed as relevant for the project as a part of the total ground investigation
programme. Guidance on the choice of investigation methods in order to obtain various properties of
soil and rock may be found in paragraphs (23) to (26).

(23) Suitable routine classification for soil samples with various degrees of disturbance is presented in
table 2.1. The routine tests are generally performed in both the preparatory and the design
investigation phases. However, in the preparatory phase a limited number of samples may often be
investigated.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

Table 2.1 : Routine soil classlflcatlon tests

Soil type Clayey soils Silty soils Sandy iravely

Sample quality Undis- Dis- Re- Undis- Dis- Re- Dis-

Si s
Re-
turbed turbed moul- turbed turbed moul- turbed moul-
ded ded ded
Parameters
Soil class X X X X X
Water
content,( kvj X (XI (XI (XI (XI
Density, (0) X
(&ea), (&in) o() X X
Atterberg limits X X X
Grain size
distribution (XI (XI X X X
Undrained shear
strength, (ci,)
Sensitivity, (6) X
X
X = normal to determine;
(X)
. . = possible to determine;
= not applicable.

(24) In addition to these routine tests for soils other classification tests for certain cases may be
performed e.g. activity, density of grain material and organic content.

(25) Laboratory tests to determine various geotechnical parameters for design purposes are
indicated in table 2.2.

Geotechnical Type of soil

parameter
Gravel Sand Silt NC clay OC clay Peat organic
clay
Oedometer
modulus (Eoed) OED"' OED"' OED OED') OED OED')

Effective shear
strength ( d ) ,(4) TX, DSS, TX, DSS, TX, DSS, TX, DSS, TX, DSS, TX, DSS,
(DST) (DST) (DST) (DST) (DST) (DST)
Undrained shear - TX, SIT, TX, SIT', TX, SIT', TX, SIT',
strength (ci,) DSS, DSS, DSS, DSS, (DST)
(DST) (DST) (DST)
Permeability ( k ) PT(C), SV PT(C), SV PT(C), PT(F) PT(F) PT(F)
PT(F)
Page 20
ENV 1997-3~1999

Abbreviations of laboratorytests:

Oedometer test
Triaxial test
Permeabilitytest (falling head)
Permeability test (constant head)
Direct shear test
Strength index tests
Sieving
Direct simple shear test

(26) Suitable routine laboratory tests for rock samples are presented in table 2.3. These tests
normally give the necessary basis for the description of the rock material.

Type of test Type of rock""

1 2 3 4
Geological classification X X X X
Unit weight, (21 X X X X
Water content, (w) X X X X
Porosity, (n) X X X X
Uniaxial compressive strength test X X X X
Point load test X X X X
Compressibility, (4 I
X I X I X I X
'
Group according to ENV 1997-1,Annex E, Table E.l.

(27) The classification of core samples will normally comprise a geological description, the core
recovery, the Rock Quality Designation (RQD), the degrees of induration, weathering and fissuring.
For weathering classification see annex L. In addition to the routine tests in table 2.3for rocks other
tests may be selected for different purposes, e.g. density of grains, wave velocity, Brazilian tests,
shear strength of rock and joints, slake durability tests, swelling tests and abrasion tests.

(28) The properties of the rock mass including the layering and fissuring normally may indirectly be
investigated by compressionand shear strength tests along joints. In weak rocks complementary
tests in the field or with large scale laboratory tests on block samples may be made.

2.2 Definitions

(l)P dynamic sounding or probing: driving a penetrometer into the ground with a hammer or a
percussion drilling machine while measuring the resistance in e.g. blows or seconds for a certain
amount of penetration.

(2)P field Investigationsfor geotechnlcal purposes: geophysical investigations, penetration

tests, in situ testing, soil sampling, rock sampling, groundwater measurements, large scale tests
and monitoring.

(3) Examples of the various types of field investigationsare:

- geophysical investigations(e.g. seismic profiling, ground penetrating radar, resistivity

measurements and borehole logging);
- penetrationtesting (e.g. CPT, SPT, static soundings and dynamic probings);
- in situ testing (e.g. pressuremetertests, dilatometer tests, plate load tests, field vane tests and
permeability tests);
- soil and rock sampling for description of the soil or rock and laboratory tests;
- groundwater measurements to determine the groundwater table or the pore pressure profile and
their fluctuations;
 Page 21
ENV 1997-3:1999

- large scale tests in order to determine e.g. the bearing capacity and behaviour of elements
directly;
- monitoring of the behaviour of different constructions e.g. movement of anchored retaining
structures, settlement of foundations, pore water dissipation beneath embankments etc.

(4)P investigation point: the co-ordinates (x,y,z) where one or a number of different tests or a
sampling is performed.

(5)P large scale tests: tests to determine directly the bearing capacity and behaviour of plates,
piles, ground anchors or the transmissivity of the ground by pumping tests.

(6)P measuring While Drilling (MWD): technique of measuring a number of boring parameters
during soil-rock sounding. Both manual and automatic recording exists.

(7) During drilling for example the penetration rate, rate of rotation, bit force, torsional moment, flush
pressure and volume of flushing agent can be measured.

(8)P penetration test: all different tests where a rod provided with a tip is pushed or driven into the
ground while the resistance to penetration is recorded.

(9) Penetration tests thus include both static and dynamic penetration tests and sounding methods
such as CPT, WST, SPT, DP and soil-rock sounding (SR) in accordance with definitions in the
following sections.

(10)P preliminary investigation: investigations performed before designing and specifying an

investigation programme, including desk studies and site inspection.

(11)P soil or rock layer: layer of normally uniform material with similar properties, extending over a
certain area in the ground.

(12)P soil-Rock Sounding: dynamic probing through possible soil into the rock with a percussion
drilling machine and normal rock drilling tools and possibly MWD-technique.

(13)P static Sounding: pushing or rotating a statically loaded penetrometer through the soil while
the resistance is measured in e.g. kN or for the weight sounding test in halfturns per 0,2 m of
penetration.

2.3 Preliminary investigationsfor positioning of a structure and preliminary design

(l)P A preliminary soils investigation for positioning of the structure and preliminary design shall
supply estimates of soil data concerning:

- type of soil or rock and their stratification;

- thickness and relative density or strength of the soil;
- groundwater table or pore pressure profile;
- preliminary strength and deformation properties for soils and rock;
- the occurrence of contaminated ground or groundwater that might be hazardous to health or the
durability of construction material.

(2)P In cases where the overall stability of the site may be of concern, a preliminary investigation
shall be made.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

(3) The slope stability investigation should be performed in the assumed most unfavourable section
and the surrounding area where previous failure may have occurred. The volume to be investigated
should cover at least a depth down to 5 m below potential slip surfaces.

(4) A slope stability investigation in soil should comprise: surveying, penetration tests, sampling, in
situ tests, groundwater measurements and laboratory testing.

(5) Rock slope investigations in addition should comprise a site inspection with mapping of
discontinuitiesand determination of the strength of joints.

(6)P In the preliminary investigation phase the investigation points shall be distributed over the area,
in such a way that an adequate picture is derived of the variability of the site with regard to the
stratification and quality of the ground and of the groundwater situation.

(7)P When parts of the soil and/or the structure are particularly complex the preliminary
investigation shall be focussed on the concerned part of the building site.

(8) The influence on or effect of surrounding constructions shall be considered when defining the
preliminary investigation programme.

(9) The extend of the preliminary soils investigationshould as a minimum contain three investigation
verticals equally distributed in a respective cross-section of the building site. This investigation may
comprise penetration tests, in situ testing, boring for sampling (in the weakest soil) and ground
water measurements where the most unfavourable groundwater level may be expected.

2.4 Investigations for design and construction

(l)P When planning investigations for design and construction account shall be taken of 3.2.3 of
ENV 1997-1. The investigations for design and construction shall provide the necessary information
for the construction works, the ground and groundwater conditions. The investigations shall be
established for the ground below and around the construction site as far as the behaviour of the
ground may adversily affect the construction works.

(2)P In cases where the preliminary investigations have not clearly shown that the overall stability is
satisfactory, complementary investigationsshall be performed during the design investigation
phase.

(3)P The design investigations for the overall stability shall have such a composition and amount of
investigation points that necessary stability analyses may be made and stabilization measures may
be designed.

(4)P The composition of the ground investigation programme and location of the investigation points
shall consider the size of the area, the topography, the geology, the groundwater conditions, the
type and design of the construction and the type and location of neighbouringstructures.

(5) The investigated area should extend into the neighbouring area for a distance of at least 1,5
times the expected excavation depth or depth of the soil layer that can generate settlements in the
neighbouring area.

(6) When applicable, investigations in the design phase should comprise penetration tests, borings
and/or test pits for sampling, in situ tests and groundwater measurements.

(7) The number of investigation points should be extended if it is deemed necesarry to obtain an
accurate insight in the complexity and the variability of the ground at the building site. Where ground
conditions are relatively uniform, a wider spacing or less investigation points may be sufficient. In
either case this choice should be justified.

(8)P For identification and classification of soils, at least one boring with sampling shall be available.
Samples shall be obtained from every separate soil layer influencingthe behaviour of the actual
structure.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

(9) In cases of inhomogeneous soil layers, organic soils or when high quality samples are required,
samples should be taken at least every 1 m in one boring.

(10)The depth of investigations should be extended to all strata that will be affected by the project.
For dams, weirs, excavations below groundwater level, and where dewatering work is involved, the
depth of exploration should also be selected as a function of the hydrogeologicalconditions. Slopes
and steps in the terrain should be explored to depths below any potential slip surface.

(11) The groundwater pressure should be measured to a depth of at least 3 m below anticipated
foundation level both in high and low points of the area or equal to the expected height of the
phreatic surface above the foundation level.

2.5 Control Investigations

(l)P In order to check that the ground conditions, the delivered construction materials and the
construction works correspond to those presumed or ordered a number of checks and additional
tests shall be made during construction and execution of the project, when relevant.

(2) The following general control measures may apply:

- inspection of excavations;
- complementary site investigations;
- check of ground profile and properties;
- measurements of groundwater level or pore pressure and their fluctuations;
- measurements of the behaviour of neighbouringconstructions, services or civil engineering
works;
- measurements of the behaviour of the actual construction.
(3)P The results of the control measures shall be compiled, reported and checked against the
design requirements. Decisions shall be taken based on the checks.

2.6 Reporting of site investigations

(l)PThe results of a geotechnical investigation shall be reported and evaluated according to 3.4 of
ENV 1997-1.

(2)P All site investigations shall be reported in such a way that the results may be checked and re-
evaluated.

(3)P For identificationand quality assurance purposes all investigation records, logs, samples and
presentations shall contain the following information:

- name of company executing the test;

- identificationof the actual site or area;
- identification number of the job or commission;
- borehole number;
- type of test.
(4)P In addition the following information shall be given on the field and laboratory investigation
records in combination with the information required for each specific investigation method as
indicated in sections 3 to 14:

- date of investigation;
- ground level;
- method of boring and borehole diameter;
Page 24
ENV 1997-3~1999

- type of test methods used with reference to actual standards:

- calibration data for the actual measuring equipment;
- any deviations from the requirements of this prestandard, other relevant standards or
recommendations;
- the signature of the operator in charge, or the field manager.
(5)PThe ground investigationreport shall include data indicating the basis for the survey of the site.
(6)P The factual ground investigation results shall be compiled in a report, with plans, in such a way
that the total amount of basic informationcan be used in the evaluation of the results. The location
of all investigation points shall be clearly indicated.

(7)P The evaluation of geotechnical informationaccording to 3.4.2 of ENV 1997-1shall be based on

all relevant basic informationavailable at the actual phase of the investigation.

(8)P Proposals for complementary investigationsshall aim at clarifying the ground conditions in all
the areas involved for the actual project and surrounding structures which are influenced by the
project.

(9) Such proposals should account for the variations in the soil layer sequence, the variations in
groundwater level or pore pressure and variations in the ground properties obtained from the
investigations performed.

2.7 Evaluation of site investigations

2.7.1 Evaluation of the preliminary investigations

(l)P The evaluation of the ground conditions in the preliminary investigation phase for positioning of
the structure and the preliminary design shall make use of all relevant information from the desk
study and the investigationsperformed at the site, related to the actual project.

(2) Geological maps and descriptions of the site, penetration test results, in situ test results,
classification of soil and rock samples, laboratory test results and groundwater measurements
should be used to identify and describe the soil layers, the rock mass and the groundwater
conditions of the total area involved in the project.

(3) The evaluation should be summarized in the report, presenting the factual investigation data
according to paragraph 2.6(6)P.

(4) A preliminary derivation of ground parameter values for a preliminary design can be made for
identified layers and can, for example, be expressed in terms of density, water content, penetration
resistance, strength and deformation properties and pore pressures.

2.7.2 Evaluation of investigationsfor design and construction

(l)PThe evaluation of the ground conditions in a design and construction phase shall
make use of all relevant information from the actual and earlier phases to describe the situation in
relation to the actual project.

(2)P The influence from or on surrounding structures, services or civil engineering works shall be
considered in the evaluation so that all necessary data are obtained.

(3) When deriving the boundary between different soil layers, soil and rock and the groundwater
level a rectilinear interpolation between the investigation points may normally be sufficiently
accurate, unless there is substantial heterogeneity.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

(4) Evaluation of the unit weight may be based on density measurements on undisturbed soil
samples or core samples in rock. In cases where only disturbed samples have been obtained the
unit weight may be estimated from in situ density tests or from compiled local experiences
especially considering the degree of saturation, the content of coarse material and the natural
scatter in density.

(5) The unit weight may also be estimated from local classification charts on the basis of results
from CPT or dilatometer tests. In rock, and soils within a casing the density may be estimated from
calibrated geophysical loggings as an alternative.

(6)P When deriving ground parameter values for design purposes from site investigations the type
of ground, the type of construction, the total and local experiences from similar design cases as well
as the scatter of the test results shall be considered.

(7) When deriving ground parameter values, the profile of the ground should be schematised into a
representative sequence of layers of soil and rock on the basis of a geotechnical identification and
classification and fieldtests. Within the distiguised layers the strenght and deformation properties
should not vary considerably.

(8) For the assesment of the strenght and deformation properties of the distinguished layers in the
schematised profile of the soil or rock, the following should be taken into consideration:

- direct measurement of the properties from field vane tests, plate load tests or pile load tests;
- laboratory measurements of certain parametersat certain stress conditions, e.g. triaxial tests,
direct shear tests or oedometer tests;
- transformation of measured data to soil properties by using compiled correlations with different
parameters, e.g. angle of shearing resistance, modulus of elasticity, relative density from e.g.
cone penetration tests, dynamic probing tests, SPT-tests, dilatometer tests or pressuremeter
tests. Since correlations of this kind normally are limited to only one investigation method and one
type of experiment it is not recommended to use them for cross correlations e.g. to transform A&
to QC and then to N' or Em;
- direct use of measured parameter values in a design method based on compiled experiences,
e.g. calculating the bearing capacity and settlements from pressuremeter tests, cone penetration
tests or standard penetration tests.
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ENV 1997-311
999

3 CONE PENETRATION AND PIEZECONE TESTS CPT(U) -

3.1 General

(l)P The cone penetration test (CPT) consists of pushing vertically into the soil, at a relatively slow
and constant rate, a penetrometer which comprises a series of rods terminated by a penetrometer
tip comprising a cone and a cylindrical shaft and measuring the penetration resistance of the cone
as well as, possibly, the local friction on a sleeve located in the cylindrical shaft.

(2)P The piezocone test (CPTU) is a CPT which includes the measurement of the pore water
pressure during penetration at the level of the base of the cone.

(3)P This section covers mainly electric penetrometers.

(4)P The tests shall be carried out in accordance with a method that complies with the essential
requirements given in this section.

(5)P The test method used shall be reported in detail with the test results.

(6) The test method may be reported by reference to a standard.

(7)P Any deviation from the requirements given below shall be justified and in particular its influence
on the results shall be commented upon.

(8) Experience of deviations exists with respect to:

- size of the cone;

- use of mechanicalor hydraulic penetrometers.

3.2 Definitions

For the purpose of this prestandard the following definitions related to CPT and CPTU apply:

(l)P penetrometer tip: The main parts of the penetrometer tip are defined in figure 3.1.

(2)P cone resistance(q,): the measured axial force Qc acting on the cone divided by the total area
of the base of the cone A&

(3)P local unit side friction (&): the measured frictional force Q acting on the sleeve divided by its
area

(4)P friction ratio (e):Uqcwhere Q and & are determined at the same depth, expressed as a
percentage

(5)P friction Index (4): 9J4 where Q and & are determined at the same depth.
 Page 27
ENV 1997-3:1999

'r-; 4

5
I

I-t
Cap and seal

poaaib1e
Friction sleeve

Cap and seal

s a l part
Cone
part

Figure 3.1 : Scheme of an electric penetrometer tip

(6)P For CPTU the following additional parameters are defined.

(7)P cone area factor (8):AN/&, where AN is the net area of the cone (see figure 3.2)

(8)P penetration pore pressure (U): the pore pressure measured during penetration on the
cylindrical part of the cone, just above the conical part of the cone (see figure 3.1)

(9)P generated pore pressure (A@: u- y,where U, is the pore pressure existing in the ground
before the penetrationtest at the level of the cone;

(1O)P total (corrected) cone resistance (a):Q + u(1-a)

(1l)P pore pressure ratio 6,:A U / (q fa),- where f ,is the total vertical stress existing in the
ground before the penetration test at the level of the cone.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

d c r36.7 m m
M

tet
Figure 3.2: Definitions for a piezocone test (CPTU)

3.3 Equipment

3.3.1 Apparatus

(l)P The apparatus shall comprise:

- thrust machine;
- push rods;
- penetrometer tip:
- measuring/recording equipment.
(2)P The thrust machine shall push the rods into the soil at a constant rate of penetration. It shall be
stabilised in such a way that it does not move significantly during the pushing action.

(3)P The push rods shall be assembled tightly in order to form a rigid-jointed series with a
continuous straight axis.

(4) In order to prevent buckling, guides andor casings should be provided for the free part of the
push rods above the soil, in very soft layers situated above a highly resistant layer and for the part of
the push rods in water.

(5) Before loading, push rods should be straight so that the maximum deflection of a point on a 1 m
push rod, from a straight line through the ends, does not exceed 1 mm for the 5 lowest push rods
and 2 mm for the remainder.

(6)P The penetrometer tip terminates the series of rods. It shall have a cone and shaft with the
same axis as the series of push rods.

(7)P When the penetrometer tip includes a friction sleeve, it shall have the same axis and shall be
located immediately above the cone.

(8)P The apex angle of the cone Oshall be 60".

(9) The assessment of the derived values in 3.7 is based on the nominal total area of the base 4 =
1000 mm'.

(10) When cones having a base 4different from 1000 mm2are used, careful attention should be
given to size effects.

(11) In Annex M documents have been listed that give examples of the description of the geometry,
tolerances and surface roughness of the cone, friction sleeve and shaft, as well as the geometry of
gaps, geometry and deformability of seals. It is recommended that these should be used.
 Page 29
ENV 1997-3:1999

(12)PFor CPTU a filter element for pore water pressure measurement is incorporated into the
cylindrical part of the cone. Its diameter shall not be less than the diameter of the cylindrical part of
the cone and not more than the diameter of the friction sleeve, if applied.

(13) The use of additional filter elements placed at other locations is not in contradiction with the
minimum requirements given in this section.

(14) For CPTU the geometry of the cone should be such that:

- the height he of the cylindrical part including the height h,, of the filter element is: 7,Omm I he I
10,O mm,
- the diameter Cc of the filter element is: 4 5 4 5 4 + 0,2 mm
where:
4 is the diameter of the cylindrical part of the cone
and the seal in the gap should be such that the remaining area A, (see figure 3.3) is as small as
possible.

e cram-

Figure 3.3: Remalnlng area AI for a piezocone test CPTU

3.3.2 Measuring equipment

(l)P The apparatus for CPT or CPTU shall include suitable measuring devices with suitable data
transmission and data recording systems. The recorded data shall always be accessible on the site.

(2) Devices for measuring the following quantities should be used, when relevant:

total penetration force 4;

axial force U, acting on the cone, linked to the cone;
frictional force 4, acting on the friction sleeve, linked to the friction sleeve (alternatively, sum Of
the forces 0,+ 4, acting on the cone and on the friction sleeve, linked to the cone and friction
sleeve);
inclination and penetration rate of the cone;
in a CPTU penetration pore pressure U relative to a known pressure, linked to the filter element in
the cone.

(3) If electric measuring devices are built into the tip, they should be temperature compensated.

(4) The sensing devices for measuring cone resistance and local side friction should be designed in
such a way that eccentricity of the load does not affect the readings.

(5)P The inaccuracy of the measurements shall not exceed 5 % of the measured value.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

3.4 Test procedure

3.4.1 Calibration and checks

(l)P All measuring devices shall provide reliable and accurate measurements.

(2) All measuring devices should be calibrated every 3000 m of CPT sounding or at least every 6
months or after repair.

(3)P For a CPTU the filter, its sensing device and all fluid spaces shall be filled with a deaired fluid
before each test and precautions shall be taken to ensure full saturation of the whole system.

(4) The wear of the cone and of the friction sleeve should be checked regularly to ensure that they
satisfy the tolerances. Examples of tolerances are given in the documents listed in Annex M.

(5) The seals should be checked for the presence of soil particles and be cleaned.

(6) If a friction reducer is used, it should be located at a sufficient distance above the penetrometer
tip so as not to influence the measurements.

3.4.2 Performing the test

(l)P The penetration shall be performed with no rotation, no vibrations, nor blows, and the direction
of the thrust shall be vertical.

(2) The axis of the push rods should at the surface not deviate, more than 2 % from vertical.

(3)P The rate of penetration shall be (20 f 5) mm/s.

(4)P The penetration depth of the cone shall be measured with an inaccuracy not exceeding 0,2 m
and the depth interval between the readings shall not exceed
0,lm.

3.5 Interpretation of the results

(1) Results of CPT and CPTU may be used for determining stratification, classifying soils and
determining properties of a wide range of soils and soft rocks, provided penetration is possible.

(2) In a CPTU the total (corrected) cone resistance Q and pore pressure ratio 5 should be
determined with qCand U measured at the same level.

(3) For interpretation of the results of a CPTU the pore pressure UJ and the total vertical stress 0;o
existing in the ground before the test should be used. UJ is be the equilibrium pore pressure; a;o
may be determined from the unit weights of the ground layers.

(4) When CPT results are used for classifying soils, the classification should be based at least on
cone resistance, local unit side friction and friction ratio (or friction index). A better classification is
obtained by performing CPTU and using total (corrected) cone resistance g,generated pore
pressure )uand pore pressure ratio 4 (andor local unit side friction and friction ratio or index, if
relevant).
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ENV 1997-3~1999

3.6 Reporting of the results

(l)P In addition to the requirements given in'2.6 the test report shall include the following
information:

- apparatus used, type of tip used;

- date of calibrations;
- zero readings of measuring devices;
- system of measurement (electric, mechanical or hydraulic);
- the depth over which a friction reducer or push rods with a reduced diameter have been used;
- the depth of the start of the test;
- the depth of water in the hole or of the water table when available;
- graphs of the following results, with depth, on an arithmetic scale:
- cone resistance: a;
- local unit side friction: 6, when relevant;
- total side friction resistance Qs,, when relevant;
- friction ratio: 6 or friction index: 6, when relevant;
- observations of the operator such as incidents, procedure details not included in the test
method which might have an influence on the tests results.

(2)P For a CPTU the report shall also include:

- cone area factor: a;

- graphs of the following results, with depth, on an arithmetic scale:
- penetration pore water pressure: U,
- total (corrected) cone resistance: Q (replacing g);
- pore pressure ratio: 4.
I .

3.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters

3.7.1 Derived values for calculations of bearing capacity and settlement of spread
foundations

(l)P When the bearing capacity or the settlement of a spread foundation is evaluated from CPT
results, either a semi-empiricalmethod or an analytical method shall be used.

(2)P When a semi-empirical method is used, all the features of the method shall be taken into
account.

(3)When the sample analytical method for bearing capacity of annex B in

ENV 1997-1 is used, the undrained shear strength of cohesive soils ci, may be determined from the
following relation:

or, in the case of CPTU, preferably by:

with A( or M, estimated from local experience.

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ENV 1997-3~1999

(4) When the sample analytical method for bearing capacity of annex 8 of ENV 1997-1 is used, the
angle of shearing resistance ('may be determined from the cone resistance q,on the basis of local
experience, taking into account depth effects, when relevant.
An example of sample values for quartz and feldspar sands is given in annex B.l to estimate a
value of qS from Q, for the bearing capacity of spread foundations, when depth effects do not need
to be taken into account.

(5) More elaborated methods may also be used for determining ('from Q, taking into account the
effective vertical stress, the compressibility, and the overconsolidation ratio.

(6) When the adjusted elasticity method of annex D of ENV 1997-1is used for calculating
settlements of spread foundations from CPT results, the correlation between cone resistance Q and
the drained (long term) Young's modulus Emdepends on the nature of the method; the semi-
empirical elasticity method, or the theoretical elastic method.

(7) An example of a semi-empirical method for calculating settlements in cohesionless soils is given
in annex 8.2.

(8) When a theoretical elastic method is used, the drained (long term) Young's modulus Em may be
determined from cone resistance Q, on the basis of local experience. An example of sample values
for quartz and feldspar sands is given in annex B.l to estimate a value of Emfrom q.

(9) Correlations between the oedometer modulus && , and the cone resistance Q may also be used
when calculating settlements of spread foundations.
The following relation between the oedometer modulus &d and q is then often adopted:

where:

a is a correlationfactor estimated on the basis of local experience

An example of a correlation is given in annex 8.3.

3.7.2 Pile foundations

(l)P When the ultimate bearing resistance of piles is evaluated from CPT results according to
7.6.3.3(4)P of ENV 1997-1, calculation rules based on established correlations between the results
of static load tests and CPT results shall be used.

(2) In annex 8.4 an example is given for the assessment of the bearing resistance of a single pile on
the basis of q-values from a CPT.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

4 PRESSUREMETER TEST (PMT)

4.1 General
(l)P The pressuremeter test covers the measurement in situ of the deformation of soils and weak
rocks to the expansion of a cylindrical flexible membrane under pressure.

(2)P Four different types of apparatus are specified:

- Mdnard pressuremeter (MPM),
- prebored pressuremeters (PBP),
- self-boring pressuremeter (SBP)
- full displacement pressuremeter (FDP).
(3) The PBP and the MPM are lowered into a test hole created specifically for the pressuremeter
test.

(4) The SBP is drilled into the ground using an integral cutting head at its lower end such that the
probe replaces the material it removes thereby creating its own test hole.

(5) The FDP is usually jacked into the ground with an integral cone at its lower end, thereby creating
its own test hole. The MPM may in some instances be jacked or driven into the ground.

(6) PBP, SBP and FDP probes may take a number of forms, therefore descriptions are given in
accordance with the type of installation and measuring systems.

(7) Two different basic test procedures are specified: a procedure to obtain a pressuremeter
modulus, &,and limit pressure, h,that may be used in design procedures formulated for the
Mdnard pressuremeter; and a procedure to obtain other stiffness and strength parameters.

(8)P The tests shall be carried out in accordance with a test method that complies with the
requirements given in this section.

(9)P The test method used shall be reported in detail together with the test results.

(10) The test method may be reported by reference to a standard.

(1l ) P Any deviations from the requirements given below shall be justified and in particular their
influence on the results shall be commented upon.

4.2 Definitions
(l)P pressuremeter: cylindrical device, designed to apply a uniform pressure to the walls of a cavity
by means of a flexible membrane. The main components of a pressuremeter are shown in fig. 4.1.

(2)P probe: cilindrical part of the pressuremeter that is inflated and thereby transmits the pressure
to the cavity walls. The probe may be lowered into a prebored hole, be bored, jacked or driven into
the ground (see fig. 4.1)

(3)P expanding section: part of the probe fitted with the flexible membrane. The expanding section
may be subdivided in one or three cells (see fig. 4.1).

(4)P test hole: length of borehole, specifically created for pressuremetertesting. It can be of the
same diameter or smaller than the borehole and is created below the base of the borehole.

(5)P cavity: portion of a test hole that is subjected to pressure by the expanding membrane. At the
start of a test the diameter of the cavity is the same diameter as the test hole.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

b -
0 - -
1 . 1 04 , 1
I 1

-H
U Tert control
Control cable/hoae
Data loller

4t Rods

Base of probe

Figure 4.1 : Key features of a pressuremeter

(6)P monocell probe: pressuremeter with a single expanding cell.

(7)P trice11 probe: pressuremeter with three expanding cells, one of which, the central cell, is the
measuring cell.

(8)P volume displacement type pressuremeter: pressuremeter fitted with a volume change
gauge to measure the change in volume of the expanding section.

(9)P radial displacement type pressuremeter: pressuremeter fitted with displacement

transducers to measure the change in radius or diameter of the expanding section.

(1O)P membrane stiffness: pressure required to inflate the membrane in air.

(11)P membrane compression: change in thickness of the membrane as the pressure is

increased.

(12)P system expansion: change in volume of the pressuremeter system, excluding the volume
change of the probe, as a result of a pressure change.

(1 3)P applied pressure: is the pressure applied by the pressuremeter to the walls of the cavity in
the soil or rock.

(14)P volume change: change in volume of the expanding cavity.

(15)P volumetric strain: change in volume of the cavity with respect to the original volume of either
the cavity or the expanding section of the probe.

(16)P cavity strain: change in radius of the cavity with respect to the original radius of the cavity.

(17)P pressuremeter test curve: plot of the variation of the applied pressure with either the cavity
strain or volume change or yhe volumetric strain.

(18) The basic curve can have one of the following forms, shown in figure 4.2. For the MPM test the
axes are usually transposed.
 Page 35
ENV 1997-3:1999

Strain

1
Strain

Figure 4.2: Forms of pressuremeter curves

4.3 Equipment

4.3.1 Apparatus

(l)P The expanding section of a pressuremeter, defined in 4.2, shall have a length to diameter ratio
greater than 5.

(2)P The diameter of the flexible membrane shall be capable of expansion without bursting by:

- 50 Toif the Mdnard method is required;

- 50 o/o if an FDP is required;
- 25 Yo if a PBP is required;
- 15 o/o if an SBP is required in soils;
- 10 To if an SBP is required in weak rocks.
(3)P If a volume displacement type probe is used, volume changes shall be measured either in the
control unit, at the surface, or in the probe.

(4)P If a radial displacement type probe is used, displacements shall be measured

directly on the membrane circumference, at three or more equidistant points in the plane
perpendicular to the axis through the centre of the probe.

(5)P The thrust machine and push rods used to jack an FDP into the ground shall comply with the
specification for cone penetration tests.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

4.3.2 Measuring equipment

(l)P Volume measuring gauges shall be capable of measuring changes in volume equal to 100 %
or 50 % of the initial volume of the expanding section of the probe depending on the test method
specified (100 % for the Mdnard method).

(2)P The applied pressure shall be measured either in the control unit at the surface or in the probe
and the gauge or transducer shall have a sensitivity compatible with the pressure range required for
the ground being tested.

(3)P The working range of a pressure transducer or gauge shall be suitable for the ground to be
tested.

(4)P The resolution of all electrical measuring devices and any associated data acquisition systems
shall be within 0 , l % of their full working range. The resolution of all other measuring devices shall
be within 1% of their full working range.

4.4 Test procedure

4.4.1 Calibrations

(1)P Calibrations for all probes shall be reliable, repeatable, accurate and traceable to standards.

(2)P Results of all calibrations shall be available on site for inspection.

(3)P The following calibrations shall be required:

- volume displacement type probes:

- pressure transducers or gauges:
- volume displacement gauges:
- system expansion;
- membrane stiffness:
- membrane compression (if testing rock):

- radial displacement type probes:

- pressure transducers;
- displacement transducers;
- membrane stiffness:
- membrane compression (if testing rock).
(4)P Transducers and gauges shall be calibrated prior to the start and following the completion of
the testing programme. For MPM testing this only applies if no calibration has been performed
within the last 6 months.

(5)P Calibration of membrane stiffness shall be carried out prior to the start of testing on site and
after the completion of every borehole. A new membrane shall be calibrated before use.

(6)P The displacement and pressure transducers shall be re calibratedfollowing any repair of the
transducers readoutkontrol unit and connecting cables.
 Page 37
ENV 1997-3:1999

4.4.2 Installation

(l)P The probe shall be installed in such a manner that the disturbance to the surrounding ground is
kept to a minimum for the type of probe.

(2)P Boring to form a test hole below the base of a borehole for the insertion of an MPM or PBP
shall be carried out using equipment, techniques and a flushing medium consistent with achieving
minimum disturbance. For any particular test hole sampling requirementsshall be specified.

(3)P The boring techniques and flushing medium used with a SBP shall be consistent with achieving
minimum disturbance to the ground surrounding the probe.

(4)P The initial volume of a deflated volume displacement type probe shall be determined at the
surface before it is lowered into the borehole.

(5) The orientation of the probe may be recorded prior to the start of insertion into the borehole and
before it is removed, particularly when radial displacement probes are used.

4.4.2.1 Menard and other prebored pressuremeters

(l)P The diameter of the test hole shall be kept close to the diameter of the deflated probe, but shall
not be less than the diameter of the deflated probe.

(2)P If a test hole is to be used for one test only, then the probe shall be inserted into the test hole
within 60 min after completion of drilling the test hole, provided the depth to the test hole does not
exceed 30 m. For holes below that, more time may be used.

(3)P If the borehole is of a larger diameter than the test hole then the distance between the top of
the expanding section of a probe and the base of the borehole shall be at least half the length of the
expanding section.

(4)P For a long test hole in which a number of tests will be carried out, all boring and testing shall be
completed within one working shift.

4.4.2.2 Self-boring pressuremeter

(l)P The SBP shall be bored continuously from the ground surface or from the base of a borehole. It
shall be bored a sufficient distance beyond a previous test position or beyond the base of a borehole
into ground that is unaffected by either the previous test or the drilling of the borehole.

(2)P The minimum distance between test locations shall be equal to twice the distance between the
centre of the expanding section and the base of the probe. If a length greater than that distance is
required, then the length to be self-bored shall be specified.

(3)P During self-boring of a SBP the setting, type and rotational speed of the cutter, type and
characteristics of drilling fluid, the drilling fluid pressure, rate of advance and ram pressure shall all
be adjusted to ensure minimum disturbance without causing undue risk of damage to the
equipment.

(4)P In free draining soils an expansion test shall be started as soon as practically possible following
the completion of self-drilling. In all remaining soils and weak rocks there shall be a minimum of
30 minutes and a maximum of one hour between completion of self-boring and the start of the
expansion test.

4.4.2.3 Full displacement pressuremeters

(1)P When a FDP incorporates an electrical cone, it shall be jacked into the soil between test levels
at (20 f 5) mm/s either from the base of a borehole or from the surface.

.
(2)P An expansion test shall be started as soon as practically possible following the completion of
jacking.
Page 38
ENV 1997-3:1999

4.4.3 Testing procedure

(l)P The expanding section of the pressuremeter shall be pressurised until the specified diameter
as defined in 4.3.1 (2)P is reached. The maximum pressure capacity of the probe shall be consistent
with the pressure required to inflate the expanding section in the particular ground conditions as
stated in 4.3.(2)P. For safety reasons the expansion may be terminated if either the maximum
pressure capacity of the probe is reached or if any of the displacement transducers has reached its
full working range or the maximum safe expanded volume is reached.

(2) The pressuremeter may be unloaded to produce an unload-reload cycle. The rates of unloading
and reloading should be specified.

(3)Prior to unloading there can be a period during which the pressure or displacement is held
constant.

(4) The reduction in stress during any unload-reload cycle should be specified.

(5) The strain at the start of any additional unload-reload cycles may be specified.

(6)P The output from the transducers shall be recorded at a minimum frequency of 10 s. intervals
throughout the test if automatic recording is used, or 30 s. if manual readings are taken or shall be
specified.

(7) For MPM tests recordings or readings are conventionally taken at 15 s,30 s and 60 s after
pressure application is completed.

-
4.4.3.1 Stress controlled tests Menard method

(l)P With the Menard stress controlled method tests shall be carried out at a constant rate of
pressure increase. The increments shall be adjusted to ensure that there are at least seven
increases in pressure throughout the loading stage, however ten increases are preferred.

(2)P Each pressure increment shall be held constant for 1 min.

4.4.3.2 Other stress controlled tests

(l)P Incremental stress controlled tests shall be carried out at a constant rate of pressure increase.

(2) One unload-reload cycle, if required, can be included in the loading sequence when either the
cavity has increased in diameter by between 1 % and 3 %, or when the pressure has reached
10 MPa, whichever occurs first.

(3)P The increments shall be no greater than 5 % of the maximum capacity of the probe and shall
be adjusted to ensure that there are at least fifteen increases in pressure throughout the loading
stage (excluding any unload-reloadcycles).

(4) The size of the pressure increments may be adjusted during the early stage of the test to ensure
that a sufficient number of readings can be taken to accurately define
when the membrane comes in contact with the side of the hole and shall be no greater than 0.2
MPa.

(5)P Each pressure increment shall be held constant for 1 min.

 Page 39
ENV 1997-3:1999

4.4.3.3 Strain controlled tests

(l)P Strain controlled tests undertaken with a PBP shall be carried out using constant increments of
volumetric or cavity strain. The increments shall be adjusted to ensure that there are at least twenty
increases in volume throughout the loading stage.

(2)P Each increment shall be maintainedfor 1 min.

(3)P Strain controlled tests undertaken with an SBP shall be carried out at a constant rate of stress
increase during the early stage of the test. Once expansion starts, a constant rate of strain of 1 %
per minute shall be used.

(4)P Strain controlled tests undertaken with an FDP shall be carried out at a constant rate of stress
increase during the early stage of the test. Once expansion starts, a constant rate of strain shall be
used.

(5)P A sufficient number of readings shall be taken to define accurately the pressure at which
expansion starts.

(6) An unload-reload cycle, if required in a PBP test, should be carried out when either the hole has
increased in diameter by between 1 % and 3 Yoor when the pressure has reached 10 MPa,
whichever occurs first.

(7) An unload-reload cycle, if required in an SBP test, should be carried out when the hole has
increased in diameter by between 1 % and 3 TO.

(8) An unload-reload cycle, if required in an FDP test, may be carried out once constant pressure
conditions are approximately achieved.

4.5 Interpretation

4.5.1 Data reduction of pressuremeter tests

(l)P The applied pressure, corrected for membrane stiffness if necessary, shall be converted to
stress.

(2)P If a radial displacement type pressuremeter is used, the displacement readings shall be
converted to cavity strain and, if testing weak rock, corrected for membrane compression and
thinning.

(3)P If a volume displacement type pressuremeter is used (e.g. Mhard) then the volume reading
shall be corrected for system expansion.

4.5.2 Interpretation of the M9nard test

(l)P A plot of corrected volume change against corrected applied pressure expressed in stress shall
be produced.

(2)P The MBnard pressuremeter modulus E, and limit pressure & shall be determined using the
method illustrated in figure 4.3.

(3)P AMis defined as the pressure required to double the total volume of the cavity from the point
e)
(A, (see fig. 4.3). The pressure A is the pressure where 4 A v / d p is a minimum and I4 is the
corresponding value of the injected volume. V, is the deflated volume of the probe.
Page 40
ENV 1997-3~1999

E M =2.86 -A* PV
AV
(V= v, +v, )

I I applied preaaure
w
I I I

1.2 mln

min
I Pr
applied pressureb

Figure 4.3: Interpretation of 6 and AMfor an MPM test

4.6 Reporting the results

( l ) P The following information shall be submitted prior to starting site work:

- full details of the pressuremeter and testing equipment;

- details of the proposed drilling equipment and flushing medium to be used for drilling boreholes;
- description of the methods of carrying out all the drilling operations for forming test holes;
- typical test data sheets and forms for presenting final results;
- reference description of the methods for carrying out the tests.
(2)P In addition to the requirements given in 2.6 the report shall include the following information to
be submitted for each test on request:

- depth of the top and bottom of the test hole, and depth of the displacement measurement axes:
- details of bored, drilling (and self-drilling if applicable), including date and time of start and finish
of all drilling, description and estimate of any drilling fluid returns and depth and size of casing
used, if any:
- the output of the transducers recorded prior to and during installationand on removal from the
borehole for any PBP;
- tabulated output of the transducers during a test, if required, time of start and finish of test and
rates of stress and/or strain on magnetic media;
- the calibration results used to convert the test data to engineering units;
- tabulated calibrated test data on magnetic media on request if applicable;
- a plot of applied pressure against the volumetric or average cavity strain expressed as a
percentage.
 Page 41
ENV 1997-3~1999

(3)P All information shall be presented. All graphical plots shall be presented on a scale which
sensibly fills the entire page.

(4)P Values of & and A Mif a M6nard test is carried out shall be submitted.

(5) In table 4.1 a list of additional plots is given.

Table 4.1 : A list of additional plots

I Probe I Ground I Abscissa I Ordinate 1

type
radial displacement type
self-bored, all cavity strain for each arm applied pressure
pushed in
prebored all cavity strain for each pair of arms applied pressure
self bored all initial cavity strain for each arm applied pressure
all all cavity strain for unload- reload applied pressure

lordinate. _I

4.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters

(l)PWhen an indirect or analytical method is used the geotechnical parameters of shear strength
and shear modulus shall be derived from the pressuremetercuwe.

(2)P When a direct or semi-empirical method is used all the features of the method shall be taken
into account.

4.7.1 Derived values for the calculation of bearing capacity resistance of spread
foundations

(1) When the sample semi-empiricalmethod of annex C in ENV 1997-1 is used the specificationfor
the Mdnard pressuremeter may be followed.

(2) An example of the calculation of the bearing resistance is given in annex C.1.

(3) When the sample analytical method of annex B in ENV 1997-1 is used, the strength of the soil
may be determined using empirical and theoretical methods but only on the basis of local
experience.

(4) The angle of shearing resistance, 4, may be determined from an SBP test in non cohesive soils
by theoretical methods and from FDP and PBP tests using empirical correlations but only on the
basis of local experience.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

4.7.2 Derived values for the calculation of settlement of spread foundations

(1) The settlement of spread foundations may be determined from stress controlled tests (Mbnard
method, see 4.4.3.1) using a semi-empirical method.

(2) An example of the calculation of the settlement of a spread foundation is given in annex C.2.

(3) When the sample analytical methods of annex D in ENV 1997-1 are used, the stiffness of the
soil may be determined using theoretical methods but only on the basis of local experience.

4.7.3 Pile foundations

(1) The ultimate bearing resistance of piles may be evaluated directly from stress controlled tests
(Mbnard method, see 4.4.3.1).

(2) An example of the calculation of the ultimate bearing resistance is given in annex C.3.

(3) When the ultimate bearing resistance of a pile is evaluated indirectly from pressuremeter test
results an analytical method may be applied to derive values of base and shaft resistance based on
local experience.
 Page 43
ENV 1997-31999

5 STANDARD PENETRATION TEST (SPT)

5.1 General

(l)P This method covers the determination of the resistance of soils at the base of a borehole to the
dynamic penetration of a split barrel sampler and the obtaining of disturbed samples for
identification purposes.

(2)P The basis of the test consists in driving a sampler by dropping a hammer of 63,5 kg mass on to
an anvil or drive head from a height of 760 mm. The number of blows ( N ) necessary to achieve a
penetration of the sampler of 300 mm (after its penetration under gravity and below a seating drive)
is the penetration resistance.

(3) The test is used mainly for the determination of the strength and deformation properties of
cohesionless soils, but some valuable data may also be obtained in other types of soils.

(4)P The tests shall be carried out in accordance with a method that complies with the requirements
given in this section.

(5)P The test method used shall be reported in detail with the test results.

(6) The test method may be reported by reference to a standard.

(7)P Any deviation from the requirements given below shall be justified and in particular its influence
on the results of the test shall be commented upon.

( 8 ) Experience of deviations exists with respect to the following points:

- use of a solid 60" cone instead of the standard shoe when dealing with gravelly materials;
- use of a barrel with an internal diameter larger than that of the shoe, in order to place an inside
liner flush with the shoe where the sample is recovered;
- an encased hammer assembly operating directly on top of the sample'r in the bottom of the
borehole.

5.2 Definitions
(l)P drive-welght assembly: a device consisting of the hammer, hammer fall guide, the anvil, and
the hammer drop system.

(2)P anvil or drive head: that portion of the drive-weight assembly which the hammer strikes and
through which the hammer energy passes into the drive rods.

(3)P drive rods: rods that connect the drive-weight assembly to the sampler.

(4)P Energy ratio-ER,: ratio between the actual energy delivered into the drive rod, immediately
below the anvil, and the theoretical free fall energy of the hammer, expressed in percentage.

(5)P hammer: that portion of the drive-weight assembly consisting of the 63,skg impact weight
which is successively lifted and dropped to provide the energy that accomplishes the sampling and
penetration.

(6)P N-value: the number of blows required to drive the sampler. The N-value, reported in blows
per 300 mm, equals the sum of the number of blows required to drive the sampler over the depth
interval of 150 mm to 450 mm from the base of the borehole (and after its eventual penetration
under gravity).
Page 44
ENV 1997-3:1999

(7)P No-value: N-value corrected to a reference energy ER, of 60 %.

(8)P (Nl)60-value: N-value corrected to a reference energy ER, of 60 % and an effective vertical
stress U = 100 kPa.

5.3 Equipment

5.3.1 Boring equipment

(l)P The boring equipment shall be capable of providing a clean hole to ensure that the penetration
test is performed on essentially undisturbedsoil. The correction for the diameter must be
considered.

(2) The diameter of the borehole should not be larger than 150 mm.

5.3.2 Sampler

(l)P The steel sampler shall have the dimensions indicated in figure 5.1 and shall be provided with
a non-return valve with sufficient clearance to permit the free flow of water or mud during driving.

Drives
rshoe Split barrel k Coupling

Figure 5.1 : Longitudinal cross section of an SPT sampler

(dimensions in mm)

5.3.3 Drive rods

(l)P The drive rods shall have a stiffness that prevents buckling during driving. Rods with a mass of
more than 10,O kg/m mass shall not be used.

5.3.4 Drive weight assembly

(l)P The drive weight assembly, of an overall mass not exceeding 115 kg, shall comprise:

- a steel hammer of 633 kg f 0,5 kg convenientlyguided to ensure minimal resistance during the
drop;
- an automatic release mechanism which will ensure a constant free fall of (760 f 10) mm, a
negligible speed of the hammer when released, and no induced parasitic movements in the drive
rods;
- a steel drive head or anvil rigidly connectedto the top of the drive rods. It may be an internal part
of the assembly, as with safety hammers.
 Page 45
ENV 1997-31999

5.4 Test Procedure

5.4.1 Preparation of the borehole

(l)P The borehole shall be clean and essentially undisturbed at the test elevation and without an
upward water pressure gradient.

(2)P When boring bits are used, they shall be provided with side discharge and not with bottom
discharge, from a safe distance of the test elevation.

(3)P When testing below the groundwater table, particular care shall be taken to avoid any entry of
water through the bottom of the borehole, as this will tend to loosen the soil or even lead to piping.
For this purpose, the level of the water or drilling fluid in the borehole shall be maintained at a
sufficient distance above the groundwater level at all times, even during withdrawal of the boring
tools. Withdrawal shall be performed slowly and with drilling tools providing enough clearance to
prevent suction effects at the bottom.

(4)P When a casing is used, it shall not be driven below the level at which the test will start.

5.4.2 Penetration test

(l)P Lower the sampler and the drive rods (with the hammer assembly on top) to the specified
bottom of the borehole. The sampler shall be penetrated over an initial or seating drive of 150 mm
applying the 63,5 kg hammer falling 760 mm and the number of blows shall be recorded. Then the
sampler in the same manner shall be driven over 2 increments of 150 mm. The number of blows
needed, or 50 blows, which ever occurs first, shall be recorded during each of these increments.
The total number of blows required for the 300 mm penetration after the seating drive is termed the
penetration resistance (N).

(2)P If the sampler advances below the bottom of the boring under the static weight of the drive rods
and hammer assembly on top, the corresponding penetration shall not be included as seating drive
and this information should be reported. In no case shall any material reach the level of the non
return valve.

(3)P Representative samples or samples recovered shall be placed in air-tight containers, clearly
labelled with all pertinent data.

5.5 Interpretation of the results

5.5.1 Introduction

(l)P Existing design methods of foundations based on the SPT are of empirical nature. Operating
methods have been adapted to obtain more reliable results. Therefore, the application of
appropriate correctionfactors for interpreting the results shall be considered. In the following
paragraphs, correction factors are given for energy delivered to the drive rods, for the effect of
overburden pressure and other circumstances.

5.5.2 Energy delivered to the drive rods

(1) Energy losses are induced by the hammer assembly due to frictional and other parasitic effects,
which cause the hammer velocity at impact to be less then the free fall velocity. Further losses of
energy are originated by the impact on the anvil, depending on its mass and other characteristics.
The type of machine, skill of the operator and other factors can also influence the energy delivered
to the drive rods.

(2)P The value of the blow count, N, in sands is inversely proportional to the energy ratio €Rr so
that:
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ENV 1997-3:1999

(3)P The ER,-value of the equipment used has to be known if the N-values are going to be used for
the quantitative evaluation of foundations or for the comparison of results. A certificate of calibration
of the ER,-value imediately below the driving head or anvil shall be available.

(4)P For general design and comparison purposes in sands, the N-values shall be adjusted to a
reference energy ratio of 60 %, by the following expression:

where:
N is the blow count and ERris the energy ratio of the specific test equipment.

(5) In table D.l (annex D) an example is given of the energy ratios of the equipment commonly used
in various countries and the corresponding correction factors for normalizingto ERr= 60 %.

(6)P If a design method for sands has been elaborated for a value of €RI different from 60 %, the
corresponding corrected Nvalue shall be determined based on the expression shown in 5.5.2 (2).

5.5.3 Energy losses due to the length of rods

(1) If the length of rods is less than 10 m, the energy reaching the sampler is reduced and the
correction factors shown in table 5.1 should be applied to the blow count for sands.

Rod length Correction factor,

below the anvil R
[m]
>10 1-0
6 - 10 0,95
4-6 0,85
3-4 0,75

5.5.4 Effect of overburden pressure in sands

(1) The effect of the overburden pressure in the N-value in sands with reference to the density index
b may be taken into account by applying to the measured N-value the correction factor CN given in
table 5.2.

(2) Table 5.2: Correction factors CNdue to the

effective overburden pressure in sands

Type of sand Density Index 4 G

[“AI
Normally 40 to 60 2
consolidated
1+ O v f
60 to 80 3
2 +Ovf
Overconsolidated 1,7
Of7 + OV’
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ENV 1997-3~1999

For an effective overburden pressure of 100 kPa, d,= 1 and hence Ci = 1 and the value of Nis then
defined as the normalized value NI.

(2) Values of the correction factor Ci larger than 2,O and preferably 1 3 should not be applied.
5.5.5 Other correction factors

(1) If the inner diameter of the sampler is 3,O mm larger than that of the shoe, as in the deviationto this
test procedure mentioned in 5.1(7) no correction is necessary if a liner of appropriate thickness is
used, such that the inside of the whole sampler is practically flush to a uniform diameter of 35 mm.
Nevertheless, attention should be paid to the eventual damage of the liner during driving and its
influenceon the corresponding blow count. If the liner is omitted, the additional clearance of the inside
of the barrel with reference to the shoe leads to Nvalues between 10 Yoand 20 YOlower in sands.

5.5.6 Use of the correction factors

(l)P Several correction factors have been mentioned in the previous paragraphs. As the existing
design methods of foundations based on the SPT are of an empirical nature, only the corresponding
correctionfactors shall be used, unless duly justified.

(2) If all the correction factors correspondingto this test procedure are applied for a design method
based on an energy ratio of 60 %, the following value for the final blow count would be obtained
(without including the one mentioned in 5.5.5 (1)):

€R
N~o=-x~xCNXN
60
where:

A is the correction factor for energy losses due to the rod length in sand
C+, is the correction factor for the effective overburden pressure in sand

5.6 Reporting of results

(l)P In addition to the requirements given in 2.6 the report shall include the following infornation:

- penetration of the sampler under static weight, if significant;

- number of blows required for each 150 mm increment of penetration(including the seating drive);
- if the drive is terminated before the full penetrationin any of the 150 mm interval: record of the depth
of penetration for the corresponding 50 blows;
- the original Nvalue and the correspondingdepth interval and soil description;
- the corrections applied, if any, and the corrected Nvalue;
- boring method and diameter;
- location of the water table, if known, and level of the water or drilling fluid during the preparationand
execution of each test;
- dimensions and weight of drive rods used for the penetrationtest;
- type of hammer and release mechanism and weight of the drive head;
- the energy ratio ER;
- the Nvalues should be reported in the boring log at each corresponding elevation, with a graphical
representation.
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5.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters

5.7.1 General criteria

(1) When dealing with cohesionlesssands, a wide empirical experience in the use of this test is
available, such as for the quantitative evaluation of the density index, the bearing capacity and the
settlement of foundations, even though the results should be considered as only a rough
approximation. Most of the existing methods are still based on uncorrected or partly corrected values.

(2) There is no general agreement on the use of the SPT in clayey soils. In principle it should be
restrictedto a qualitative evaluationof the soil profile or to a qualitative estimate of the strength
properties of the soil. Nevertheless it may sometimes be used in a quantitative way, under well known
local conditions, when directly correlated to other appropriate tests.

5.7.2 Bearing capacity in sands

(1) Bearing capacity problems may be solved through the determination of the density index, and the
effective angle of shearing resistance, N'.

5.7.2.1 Derived values for the density index

(1) In annex D.2 an example is given of the relationship between and versus the density
index h.

(2) The resistance of sand to deformation is greater the longer the period of consolidation. This
"ageing" effect is reflected in higher blow counts.

(3) Overconsolidationincreasesthe blow counts, for the same values of 6 and e.

(4) In annex D.2 the effect of both ageing and overconsolidation is illustratedthrough some sample
correlations.

5.7.2.2 Derived values for the angle of shearing resistance N'

(1) The angle of shearing resistancemay be derived directly from the value of Nthrough empirical
correlations.

(2) It can also be estimated using the density index as an intermediate parameter. In annex D.3 a
sample correlationof this type is shown.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

5.7.3 Settlement of spread foundations in sand

(1) When a purely elastic method is used, the drained Young's modulus E, may be derived from the
Nvalues through empirical correlations.

(2) Alternatively, the density index may be derived based on the &-value, and then use an appropriate
correlation to obtain G ,through the density index.

(3) The direct methods are based on comparisons of the N-values and results of plate loading test or
records of measured settlements of foundations. Allowable bearing pressures for a maximum
settlement of 25 mm or the settlement corresponding to a given applied pressure can be obtained
through the corresponding procedures with reference to the width of the footing, its embedment in the
ground and groundwater table position.

(4) A sample method for the calculation of the settlements originated by spread foundations in sand is
given in annex 0.4.

5.7.4 Pile foundations in sand

(l)P When the ultimate bearing resistance of piles is evaluated from SPT results according to 7.6.3.3
(4) of ENV 1997-1, calculation rules based on established correlations between the results of static
load test and SPT results shall be used.
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6 DYNAMIC PROBING TEST (DP)

6.1 General

(l)PThis method covers the determinationof the resistance of soils and soft rocks in situ to the
dynamic penetrationof a cone. A hammer of a given.massand falling height is used to drive the cone.
The penetration resistance is defined as the number of blows requiredto drive the penetrometer over a
defined distance. A continuous record is provided with respect to depth but no samples are recovered.

(2)P Four procedures are included, covering a wide range of specific work per blow: DPL, DPM, DPH
and DPSH.
- Dynamic probing light (DPL): test representingthe lower end of the mass range of dynamic
penetrometers included in this document and defined in table 6.1.
- Dynamic probing medium (DPM): test representingthe medium mass range of dynamic
penetrometers included in this document and defined in table 6.1.
- Dynamic probing heavy (DPH): test representingthe medium to very heavy mass range of dynamic
penetrometers included in this document and defined in table 6.1.
- Dynamic probing superheavy (DPSH): test representingthe upper end of the mass range of
dynamic penetrometers included in this document and defined in table 6.1, closely related to the
dimensions of the SPT.

(3)The results of this test are specially suited for the qualitative evaluation of a soil profile or as a
relative comparison of other in situ tests. They may also be used for the determinationof the strength
and deformation properties of soils, generally of the cohesionless type, through appropriate
correlations.

(4)P The tests shall be carried out in accordance with a method that complies with the requirements
given in this section (see also 1.1, which especially applies to well establishednational equipment
standards of corresponding countries).

(5)P The test method used shall be reported in detail with the test results. .

(6) The test method may be reported by reference to a published standard.

(7)P Any deviation from the requirements given below shall be justified and in particular its influenceon
the results of the test shall be commented upon.

(8) Experience of deviations exists with respect to:

- hammer mass: e.g. 63,5 kg insteadof the 50 kg specified for the DPH;
- falling height:
- dimensions of the cone: e.g. an area of 15 cm2instead of the 10 cm2specified for the DPM.
(9) In locations with special difficulties of accessibility lighter equipment and procedures other than
those specified below may be used.
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6.2 Definitions

(l)P anvil or drive head: that portion of the drive-weight assembly which the hammer strikes and
through which the hammer energy passes into the drive rods.

(2)P cone: pointed probe of standard dimensions used to measure the resistance to penetration (see
figure 6.1).

(3)P drive rods: rods that connect the drive-weight assembly to the cone.

(4)P drive-weight assembly: a device consisting of the hammer, hammer fall guide, the anvil and the
drop system.

(5)P Energy ratio-ER,: ratio of the actual energy delivered by the drive-weight assembly into the drive
rod, immediatelybelow the anvil, and the theoreticalfree fall energy of the hammer, expressed in
percentage.

(6)P hammer: that portion of the driie-weight assembly which is successively lifted and dropped to
provide the energy that accomplishes the penetration of the cone.

(7)P N-values: number of blows required to drive the penetrometerover a defined distance,
expressed in cm by the corresponding subindex (Nlo or Nm).

6.3 Equipment

6.3.1 Cone

(l)P The cone of steel or cast iron shall have an apex angle of 90" and an upper cylindrical extension
mantle and transition to the extension rods as shown in Figure 6.1 and with the dimensions and
tolerances given in Table 6.1. The cone may be sacrificialor retained for recovery.

Figure 6.1 :Cone for dynamic probing

6.3.2 Drive rods

(l)P The rod material shall be of a high-strengthsteel with the appropriate characteristicsfor the work
to be performed without excessive deformations and wear. The rods shall be flush jointed. Dimensions
and masses of the drive rods are given in table 6.1.

(2) Solid rods may be used, hollow rods should be preferred in order to reduce weight.
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ENV 1997-31999

Table 6.1 :Dimensions and masses for the four types

of dynamic probing apparatus

DPL DPM DPH DPSH

(light) (medIum) (heavy) (super heavy)
Driving device _ _ _ ~

hammer: mass m (kg) 10 f 0,l 30 f 0,3 50 f 0,5 63,5f 0,5

height of fall h (mm) 500 f 10 500f10 500f10 750 f 20
IengtWdiameter (4)ratio 21 52 21 52 21 52 21 52

Anvil

diameter, d, (mm) 100<d<0,5 4, 100<ck0,54 100<&0,5 4

mass (kg) (max.) 6 18 30
(guide rod included)

90° Cone

nominal base area A (cm2) 10 10 5 20

base diameter (0)new (mm) 35,7f 0,3 35,7f 0,3 437 f 0,3 51 f0,5
base diameter, worn (mm)
(min.) 34 34 42 49
mantle length (mm)
tapper angle upper (deg.) 357 k 1 357 f 1 43,7f 1 51 f 2
length of cone tip, (mm) 11 11 11 11
tip max. Permissible wear 17,9f 0,l 17,9f 0,l 21,9f 0,l 25,3 f 0,4
(mm) 3 3 4 5
Drlve rods

mass (kg/m) (max) 3 6 6

diameter OD (mm) (max) 22 32 32
rod deviation:
lowermost 5 m, Yo 091 OB1 0,1
remainder, Yo 02 0.2 02

specific work per blow

(mgh'A) in kJ/m2 50 150 167 238

6.3.3 Driving device

(l)PDimensions and masses of the components of the driving device are given in
table 6.1.The following requirements shall be fulfilled:

- the steel hammer must be convenientlyguided to ensure minimal resistance during the drop;
- the automatic release mechanism shall ensure a constant free fall, with a negligible speed of the
hammer when released and no induced parasitic movements in the drive rods;
- the steel drive head or anvil shall be rigidly connected to the top of the drive rods.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

6.4 Test procedure

(l)P The drive rods and the cone shall be driven vertically and without undue bending of the protruding
part of the extension rods above the ground.

(2)P The penetrometershall be continuously driven into the ground. The driving rate should be kept
between 15 and 30 blows per minute, except when penetratingsand and gravel, where the driving rate
may be increased up to 60 blows per minute. All interruptionslonger than 5 minutes shall be recorded.

(3)P The rods shall be rotated 1% turns every 1,Om.

(4) For rotating the rods, a torque measuring wrench (capacity> 200 Nm, graduations c 5 Nm) should
be used.

(5) To decrease skin friction, drilling mud or water may be injected through horizontalor upwards holes
in the hollow rods near the cone. A casing is sometimes used with the same purpose.

(6)P The number of blows shall be recorded every 100 mm for the DPL. DPM and DPH (Nlo) and
every 200 mm for the DPSH (Nm).

(7) The normal range of blows, especially in view of any quantitative interpretationof the test results, is
between Nlo = 3 and 50 for DPL. DPM and DPH and between Nm= 5 and 100 for DPSH. The rebound
per blow should be less than 50 % of the penetrationper blow. In cases beyond these ranges, when
the penetrationresistance is low, e.g. in soft clays, the penetration depth per blow may be recorded. In
hard soils or soft rocks, where the penetration resistance is very high, the penetrationfor a certain
number of blows may be recorded.

(8) For obtaining reliable results, the maximum investigationdepths recommendedare: 8 m for DPL,
20 to 25 m for DPM and 25 m for DPH.

6.5 Interpretation of test results

(l)P The test results shall be interpreted in one of the following ways:

- in terms of Nlo for DPL, DPM, and DPH or Nm for DPSH;

- by determining the unit point resistance (6)or the dynamic point resistance (q~)
using the following
formulae:

m
9d = x fd
m+m'

where:

hand Q are resistance values in Pa;

m is the mass of the hammer in kg;
9 is the acceleration due to gravity in Nkg;
b is the height of fall of the hammer in m;
A is the area at the base of the cone in m2;
e is the average penetration, imm per blow (O,lMlo from DPLm DPM, and DPH, and
0,2/N20from DPSH);
171 is the total mass of the extension rods, the anvil and the guiding rods, in kg.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

(2) The value of 4 is an assessment of the driving work done in penetrating the ground. To calculate
&-values, the 4-values are modified to take into account the inertia of the driving rods and the hammer
after impact on the anvil. q, should thus allow comparison of different equipment configurations.

(3)Appropriate correction factors may be applied to take into account the friction on the rods.

(4) Energy losses are originated during driving due to the same factors described for the SPT test
(5.5.2). Therefore, when this test is used for quantitative evaluation purposes, it is recommendedto
know by calibration the actual energy ratio ER, transmitted to the drive rods.

6.6 Reporting of results

(l)P In addition to the requirementsgiven in 2.6 the test report shall include the following information:

- the type of dynamic probing: DPL, DPM, DPH or DPSH; all divergences from the normal procedures
of applied these tests shall be described in detail;
- a graphic representationwith respect to depth of the following data:
- number of standard blows to driie the cone 100 mm for the DPL, DPM and DPH or 200 mm
for the DPSH, andor the values of 4 or q,;
- the maximum torque requiredto rotate the penetrometer at each test level (in Nm), if
measured;
- all interruptionsduring the work, longer than 5 minutes;
- the use of any separate precaution against friction such as casing, drilling mud or water;
- the use of corrections to take account of friction along the rods, if any;
- details of any unusual event during driving, e.g. penetration without blows, temporary obstructions,
artesian conditions.

6.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters

(1) If dealing with cohesionless soils, it is possible to obtain correlations with some geotechnical
parameters and in situ tests and use the results in a quantitative evaluation for foundations design,
provided the friction along the rods is negligible, or duly corrected.

(2) If dealing with cohesive soils, the quantitative use of the results is more controversialand should be
employed only under well known local conditions and supported by specific correlations. The skin
friction during the test is a factor of special concern with this type of soils and should be duly taken into
account.

(3)Several correlations have been establishedamong the different dynamic probing tests and between
them and other tests or geotechnical parameters. In some cases the friction along the rods has been
eliminated or corrected, but the actual energy transmitted to the probe has not been measured.
Therefore they cannot be considered valid in general. Nevertheless, some of them are included in
annex E.
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ENV 1997-31999

7 WEIGHT SOUNDING TEST (WST)

7.1 General

(l)P The weight sounding penetrometer consists of a screw-shaped point, rods, weights or other
loading system and a handle or a rotating device. The weight sounding test is made as a static
sounding in soft soils when the penetration resistance is less than 1 kN. When the resistance exceeds
1 kN the penetrometer is rotated, manually or mechanically, and the number of halftums for a given
depth of penetration is recorded.

(2) The weight sounding test is primarily used to give a continuous soil profile and an indication of the
layer sequence. The penetrabilityin even stiff clays and dense sands is good.

(3) The weight sounding test may also be used to estimate the density of cohesionless soils and to
estimate the undrained shear strength of cohesive soils.

(4)P The tests shall be carried out in accordance with a method that complies with the requirements
given in this section.

(5)P The test method used shall be reported in detail with3he test results.

(6) The test method may be reported by reference to a standard.

(7)P Any deviation from the requirements given below shall be justified and in particular its influence on
the results of the test shall be commented upon.

7.2 Definitions

(l)P weight sounding resistance: either the smallest standard load for which the penetrometer sinks
without rotation, or the number of halftums per 0,2 m of penetrationwhen the penetrometer has its
maximum load and is rotated.

(2)P manual weight sounding test: test made by rotating the penetrometer by hand using a handle.
The penetrometer is loaded by weightpieces.

(3)P mechanized weight sounding test: test in which rotating of the penetrometer is made
mechanically. The penetrometer is loaded mechanically or by dynamometer or by weightpieces.

7.3 Equipment

7.3.1 Penetrometer tip

(l)P The diameter of the circumscribedcircle of the screw-shaped point shall be 35 mm. The length of
the point shall be 200 mm. The point is twisted one turn to the left over a length of 130 mm and it has a
pyramidicaltip as shown in figure 7.1.

(2)P The diameter of the circumscribedcircle for the worn point shall not be less than 32 mm.
Maximum allowable shortening of the point is 15 mm due to wear. The tip of the point shall not be bent
or broken.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

Dimensions in mm

Section A-A

“I for 22 mm rods

Figure 7.1 :The point of the weight sounding penetrometer

7.3.2 Weights or loading system

(l)PThe weight-pieces for manual weight sounding test shall comprise of one 50 N clamp, two 100 N
weights and three 250 N weights, total 1000 N.

(2) The weights for mechanized test can be replaced by a dynamometer with the measuring range
from 0,05kN up to 1,OO kN.

(3)P The maximum allowable deviation from the standard loads and the dynamometer scale shall be *
5 To.

7.3.3 Rods
(l)P The diameter of the rods shall be 22 mm.

(2) The length of one rod should be at least 1 m. For mechanized weight sounding test the length of
the rod can be 1,Oto 2,O m.

(3)P The deviation from the straight axis shall not exceed 4 mm per m for the lowest 5 m of the rods
and 8 mm per m for the remainder. The allowable eccentricity of the coupling shall not be more than
0,l mm. The angular deviation for a joint between two straight rods shall not be more than 0,005
rad.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

7.4 Test procedure

7.4.1 Use of preboring and casing

(l)P The possible need to prebore through the upper stiff or dense soil layers shall be estimated in
each case.

(2) Preboring is often requiredthrough a dry crust or through a fill in order to minimize skin friction
along the rods.

7.4.2 .Manualweight sounding

(l)P When the penetrometer is used as a static penetrometer in soft soils the rod shall be loaded in
steps using the following standard loads: 0 kN, 0,05 kN, 0,15 kN, 0,25 kN, OS0 kN, 0,75kN, 1,O kN.
The maximum standard load is 1,O kN.

(2)P The load shall be adjusted in the standard steps to give a rate of penetrationof about 50 mm per
second.

(3)P If the penetrationresistanceexceeds 1 kN or the penetration rate at 1 kN is less than 20 mm per

second the rod shall be rotated. The load of 1 kN is maintained and the number of half turns required
to give 0,2m of penetrationshall be counted.

(4)P The rod must not be rotated when the penetration resistance is less than 1 kN.

(5) The sounding may be terminated by striking the rod with a hammer or by dropping some of the
weights onto the clamp in order to check that the refusal is not temporary.

7.4.3 Mechanizedweight sounding

(l)P The test shall be carried out in a similar manner as for the manual sounding. The rate of rotation
shall not exceed 50 turns per minute.

(2) The rate of rotation should be between 15 and 40 tums per minute.

(3) The applied load should be measured by a dynamometer or a measuring cell attached to the
machine.

(4)P During the sounding, vibrations from the engine shall be kept in such level, that it does not affect
the measured penetrationresistance.

7.5 Interpretationof test results

(l)P The penetrationresistance is given by the standard loads in stages (kN) and when rotated, loaded
with the maximum standard load, by the number of halftums per 200 mm of penetration.

(2) Differencesbetween manual and mechanical operated tests may occur. Where this may be the
case, e.g. when estimating the relative density of loose cohesionless soils, comparisons between
manual and mechanized tests are recommended.

(3) The penetration resistance is strongly influenced by the shaft friction of the rods.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

7.6 Reporting of the test results

(l)P In addition to the requirementsgiven in 2.6 the test report shall include the following information:

- sounding method;
- the type of the loading device;
- the type of the rotating equipment and the rate of rotation;
- preboring, diameter and depth of the borehole, if preboringis used;
- diameter of the casing tube and depth of casing, if used;
- diameter of the rods;
- the penetration depth for every standard load during the static sounding phase;
- the number of halftums required for every 0,2 m of penetration during the rotating phase: in cases
when a full section of 0,2 m is not penetratedthe number of halftums and corresponding
penetration;
- the depth of penetrationand number of blows during driving if the penetrometer is driven by blows of
a hammer or some of the weights;
- interruptions during the test;
- all observations which may help in the interpretationof the test results.

7.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters

(l)P When the bearing capacity or the settlement of a spread foundation is evaluated from weight
sounding test results and analytical method shall be used.

(2) When the sample analytical method for bearing capacity in annex B of ENVl997-1 is used, the
angle of shearing resistance N'may be determinedfrom correlations with weight sounding resistance.
Such correlations should be based upon comparable experience, relevant to the design situation.
Annex F presents a sample correlation, derived for quartz and feldspar in a European region.

(3)When the theoretical elastic method in annex D of ENV1997-1 is used for calculating settlements of
spread foundations from weight sounding results, the drained (long term) Young's modulus Emmay be
determined from weight sounding resistanceon the basis of local experience. In the case of quartz and
feldspar sands derived values as in annex F, for example, may be used to estimate a value of the
angle of shearing resistance N'from the weight sounding resistance.

(4) In cohesionless soils the weight sounding resistance may be used also in direct estimation of the
bearing capacity of spread foundation and piles. '

(5) In cohesive soils the weight sounding resistancemay be used to estimate the undrained shear
strength of soil, based on local experience, consideringthe sensitivity of the soil and water conditions
in the borehole.
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8 FIELD VANE TEST (nrr)

8.1 General

(l)P The field vane test is an in situ test and it is carried out with a rectangular vane, consisting of four
plates fixed at 90"angles to each other, pushed into the soil to the desired depth and rotated.

(2) This section covers the field vane test used in soft and very soft cohesive soils for the determination
of the undrained shear strength and the sensitivity of the soil. Field vane test may also be used for the
determination of the undrained shear strength in stiff clays, silts and clay till. The reliabilityof test
. results varies depending on the type of soil.

(3) After extensive rotation of the vane, whereby the soil along the failure surface becomes thoroughly
remoulded, the remoulded shear strength value can be measured and the soil's sensitivity can be
calculated.

(4)P The tests shall be carried out in accordance with requirements given in this section.

(5)P The test method used shall be reported in detail with the test results.

(6) The test method may be reported by reference to a standard.

(7)P Any deviation from the requirements given below shall be justified and in particular its influence on
the results of the test shall be commented upon.

(8) Experience of deviations exists with respect to shape of vanes.

8.2 Definitions

(l)P maximum t o q u e T-,": torque required to obtain failure along the failure surface. M, is the
torque for undisturbed strength value.

(2)P maximum torque for remoulded conditions T-: torque required tot obtain failure along the
failure surface is remoulded conditions.

(3)P test depth: depth at mid height of the vane.

(4)P time to failure: time between the first application of toque to the vane until the moment when
maximum torque is reached when measuringthe undisturbed strength value.

(5)P undisturbedshear strength value (6):

the shear strength value in undisturbed conditions.

(6)P remoulded shear strength value (G):shear strength value after remoulding the soil.

(7)P sensitivity according to field vane test (&): relation between the undisturbedshear strength
value and the remoulded shear strength value.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

I
SECTION A-A

Figure 8.1 :Design of the vane

8.3 Equipment

8.3.1 Vane

(l)PThe vane shall consist of four rectangular plates fixed at 90"angles to each other, see figure 8.1.
The blades shall be parallel with the extension rods and no distortion is allowed.

(2)PThe relation between the height (h)and the diameter (0)of the vane shall be 2,O for standard
vanes.

(3)A maximum vane size ( d x h) of 100 mm x 200 mm for very soft soils and a minimum vane size of
40 mm x 80 mm for dense soils are commonly used for standard vanes.

(4)PThe blade thickness (4 shall not exceed 3,Omm but shall not be less than 0,8 mm. The diameter
of the vane shaft, as well as possible welding seams in the centre of the vane shall be small enough to
avoid disturbing effects to the measured shear strength value.

(5) In very sensitive clays the blade thickness should not exceed 2,O mm to minimize the disturbance
of the soil during pushing the vane into the soil.

(6)PIfthe vane is filled with a protective casing, the length of the protrusion at the test shall be at least
5 times the diameter of the vane.

(7)PThe diameter of the vane shaft close to the vane should be less than 16 mm. However, vane
shaft shall be of such rigiditythat it does not twist significantly under full load conditions.

(8) It is recommendedthat the vane is filled with a device making it possible to separate the torque of
the vane from that of the extension rods. A casing or slip coupling can be used.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

8.3.2 Extension rods

(l)P Extension rods shall have a diameter and torsional stiffness large enough to transmit the torque
generated during the test to the vane.

(2) The extension rods should have a diameter of at least 20 mm.

(3)P The rods shall be straight. The eccentricityof the threads at the rod joints shall be less than 0,l
mm. Then maximum permitted bending for rods or for two jointed rods is 2 mm over each 1 m of
length, measured as height of arch.

(4)P If casing tubes are used in order to prevent buckling of the rods, the inner diameter of the tubes
shall be large enough to minimize the friction along the rods. When using casing tubes the friction
along the rods shall be measured.

8.3.3 Equipment for rotation and recording instrument

(l)P The equipment for rotation of the vane shall be designed to provide rotation at a given and
constant rate.

(2)P The recording instrument shall be designed so that it is possible to read off accurately the
maximum torque.

(3)P The recording instrument shall be calibrated at least once every six months or when it has been
damaged, overloaded or repaired.

(4) Continuous automatic recording is recommended. For interpretation of the test results a graph of
the measured torque versus the rotation angle should be made.

(5) The measuring range for the necessary measurements of the angle of rotation should be 360°,with
a reading of 1 O.

8.4 Test procedure

8.4.1 Predrilling and pushing down the vane

(l)P Predrilling shall be made through eventually possibly dry crust or fill when a vane test is to be
carried out in the soil below such layers.

(2)P When using an outer system with a casing protecting the vane, the water pressure in the casing
system shall be the same as that in the soil at the test level.

(3)P The vane shall be pushed down, if possible without use of blows or vibration. Rotation is never
permitted. The pushing rate shall be constant and not exceeding 20 mm/s.

(4) In stiff clays, silts and in clay till driving may be needed to get the vane to the desired depth.

(5)P The distance between investigationpoints shall be at least 2,O m in plan in case of test depths
greater than 5 m.

(6)P The first test shall be conducted at a depth of at least 0,5 m below the ground surface or at a
depth of at least 5 times the diameter of a predrilled hole below its base.

(7)P The minimum vertical distance for two tests conducted in the same borehole shall be at least 0,5
m.
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8.4.2 Vane shear test

(l)P The time from the moment when the desired test depth has been reached to the beginningof the
vane test (waitingtime) shall be at least 2 min and no more than
5 min.

(2)P The vane shall be loaded by application of torque in such a way that failure of the soil occurs in
undrained conditions. The vane shall be rotated at a constant rate.

(3) A guiding value for the rotating rate of the vane to fulfil the criteria given above in cohesive soils is
0,lVsto 0,2"/s (b0/minto 12"/min).Rotation rates up to 0,5"/s may be used for soft cohesive soils with
low sensitivity.

(4)P The test shall be run in such a way that the skin friction along the rods can be separated.

(5)P After failure has occurred and the maximum torque has been recorded, the vane shall be rotated
rapidly at least ten turns in order to remould the soil at the failure surface, after which a new test is
performed immediately according to the instructions above. The constant value of the torque at the
remoulded state is recorded.

8.5 Interpretation of test results

(l)P For standard vanes with dh= 1:2 and with the failure surface shown in figure 8.2.the undisturbed
-
shear strength value of the soil shall be determined by using the formula:
I max: U
crV = 0,273-
f??
where:

Tm:" is the maximum torque on the vane.

surface

Figure 8.2: Assumed fallure surface for standard vane

2)P The failure surface for a rectangular vane shall be assumed to be a cylindricalsurface
circumscribing the vane and two planes on the top and bottom of that cylinder respectively. The shear
strength shall be assumed to be fully mobilized, constant and uniform at failure around the perimeter
and across the ends of the cylinder, see
figure 8.2.

(3)P The undrained shear strength (9") of the soil shall be obtained from the undisturbed shear
strength value after correctionwith regard to the soil's liquid limit, plasticity index or the effective vertical
stress.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

(4)P TmtUshall be reduced by the friction along the rods.

(5)P The remoulded shear strength value (G)

shall be determined by the same formula replacing
TWu with Tmr.

(6) By registeringthe torque as a function of torsion, information is obtained on the mode of the failure
of the soil. By using different shapes of vanes, it is possible to evaluate the anisotropy of the soil.

8.6 Reporting of the results

(l)P In addition to the requirements given in 2.6 the test report shall include, for both manual and
automatic recording, the following information:

- type of test equipment and of the torque measuring device;

- vane size;
- diameter of the extension rods;
- number of the torque measuring device (to check the calibration data);
- date of the last calibrationand calibrationfactor for the instrument;
- test depth;
- rotation rate of the vane during the test;
- maximum torque on the vane in undisturbed and torque in remoulded state, a reading or a graph;
- time to failure (the time for the activated vane only);
- observations made in connection with the test, as well as events or details that may influence the
test results.

8.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters

(l)P If the bearingcapacity of a spread foundation, the ultimate bearing resistance of piles or stability
of slopes is evaluated based on vane test results, an analytical method shall be used.

(2)P In order to obtain derived values for the undrained shear strength the undisturbed shear
strength value shall be corrected with considerationto empirical experience. The correction factor shall
be determined based on local experience.

(3)Existing correctionfactors are usually related to the liquid limit or plasticity index and the effective
vertical stress.

(4) In annex G examples are given of such correction factors.

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ENV 1997-3:
1 999

9 FLAT DILATOMETER TEST (DMT)

9.1 General
(l)P The flat dilatometer test DMT covers the determinationof the in situ strength and deformation
properties of fine grained soils using a blade shaped probe having a thin circular steel membrane
mounted flush on one face.

(2) Results of DMT tests are mostly used to obtain information on soil stratigraphy, in situ state of
stress, deformation properties and shear strength.

(3)P The basis of the test consists of inserting vertically into the soil a blade-shaped steel probe with a
thin expandable circular steel membrane mounted flush on one face and determining, at selected
depths or in a semi-continuous manner, the contact pressure exerted by the soil against the
membrane when the membrane is flush with the blade and subsequently the pressure exerted when
the central displacement of the membrane reaches 1,10 mm.

(4) The DMT test is most appropriate in clays, silts and sands where particles are small compared to
the size of the membrane.

(5)P The tests shall be carried out in accordance with a method that complies with the requirements
given in this section.

(6)P The test method used shall be reported in detail with the test results.

(7) The test method may be reported by referenceto a published standard.

9.2 Definitions

9.2.1 Equipment and testing procedure

(1) The main parts of a dilatometer equipment are defined in figure 9.1,

(2)P dilatometer blade or dilatometer probe: blade-shapedsteel probe that is inserted into the soil to
run a DMT test.

(3)P membrane: circular steel membrane that is mounted flush on one face of the blade and is
expanded when applying a gas pressure at its back.

(4)P switch mechanism: apparatus housed inside the blade, behind the membrane, capable to
activate and disconnect an electric contact which in turn shall respectively set off and on an audio
andor visual signal when the membrane expands and reaches two preset deflections equal to 0,05
mm and 1,lOmm respectively.

(5)P pneumaticslectric cable: cable that connects the control unit to the blade, delivers gas pressure
at the back of the membrane, and provides electric continuity between the control unit and the switch
mechanism.

(6)P control and calibration unit: set of suitable devices capable of supplying gas pressureto the
back of the membrane and measuring the pressure when the switch mechanism activates and
disconnect the electric contact behind the membrane.

(7)P earth wire: wire connecting the control unit to the earth.

(8)P pressure source: pressurized gas tank filled with any dry nonflammable and noncorrosivegas.
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ENV 1997-31999

0
n
Hmm
94 t o 08

1 PO

Figure 9.1 : Dilatometer equipment and definition of calculated in situ soil pressure
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ENV 1997-3~1999

(9)P membrane calibration: the procedure to determine the membrane calibration pressures equal to
the suction and the pressure that must be applied in air to the back of the membrane to retract its
centre to 0,05 mm expansion or to expand it 1,lO mm respectively.

(1O)P dilatometer profiling: the execution of a sequence of dilatorneter tests from the same station at
ground level along a vertical direction at closely spaced intervals with depth increments ranging
between 150 mm and 300 mm.

9.2.2 DMT parameters

(l)P The following parametersare defined:

- A-pressure: the pressure (PA)that must be applied to the back of the membraneto expand its
centre 0,05 mm in soil;
- B-pressure: the pressure (5) that must be applied to the back of the membrane to expand its
centre 1,lOmm in soil;
- A-membrane-callbratlon-pressure: the suction, (APA)recorded as a positive value, that must be
applied to the back of the membrane to retract its centre to the 0,05 mm deflection in air;
- B-membrane-calibration-pressure: the pressure (A4)that must be applied to the back of the
membrane to expand its centre to the 1,lO mm deflection in air;
- APR.,,,, and A&.-: the averaged values of the membrane calibrationpressures obtained from the
respectivevalues of APA and A 5 measured before and after each dilatometer profiling or single
dilatometer test;
- &-pressure: gauge pressure deviation from zero when venting the blade to atmospheric pressure;
- soil pressure A: soil pressure against the membrane when it is flush with the blade (e.g. at zero
expansion), also termed contact pressure, as shown in figure 9.1;
- soil pressure p1: soil pressureagainst the membrane when its centre is expanded 1,lO mm as
shown in figure 9.1;
- in situ pore water pressure prior to blade Insertion 4:in situ pore water pressure prior to blade
insertation at the elevation of the centre of the membrane;
- the in situ effective vertical stress P,,,,: vertical stress prior to blade insertionat the elevation of
the centre of the membrane:
- dilatorneter material index 4& an index related to the type of soil;
- dilatorneter horizontal stress index KDm:an index related to the in situ horizontal stress;
- dilatometer modulus b:a parameter related from theory to the modulus of elasticity of the soil.

9.3 Equipment

9.3.1 Dilatometer equipment

(l)P The equipment for dilatometer testing shall comprise:

- dilatometer blade with suitable threaded adaptor to connect to push rods;

- pneumatic-electricalcable;
- earth wire;
- control and calibration unit;
- pressure source.
(2)P The dimensions of the blade, of the apex angle of the penetrating edge and of the membrane
shall be comprised within the limits indicated in fig. 9.1.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

(3)P The pneumatic-electricalcable, which provides pneumatic and electrical continuity between the
control unit and the dilatometer blade, shall have stainless steel connectors with wire insulators to
prevent short circuit and washers to prevent gas leakage.

(4)P The control and calibration unit shall accomplish the following:

- it shall be earthed;
- it shall control the rate of gas flow while monitoring and measuringthe pressure of gas transmitted
from the control unit to the blade and the membrane;
- it shall signal the instants when the electric switch changes from on to off and vice versa.

(5)P The pressure measurement devices of the control and calibration unit shall allow to determine the
pressure applied to the membrane with intervals of 10 kPa and a reproducibility of 2,5kPa at least for
pressures lower than 500 kPa.

(6)P The pressure source shall be provided with a suitable regulator, valves and pressure tubing to
connect to the control unit.

9.3.2 Insertion apparatus

(l)P The equipment for inserting the dilatometer blade shall comprise:

- thrust machine to insert and advance the dilatometer blade into the soil;
- push rods with suitable adaptor to connect to the blade:
- hollow slotted adaptors for lateral exit of the pneumatic-electricalcable.
(2)P The thrust machine shall be capable of advancing the blade vertically with no significant horizontal
or torsional forces.
(3) Penetration rates in the range of 10 mm/s to 30 mmls should be applied. Driving should be avoided
except when advancing the blade through stiff or strongly cemented layers which cannot be penetrated
by static push.

(4)P Push rods shall be straight and resistand against buckling.

9.4 Test procedure

9.4.1 Calibration and checks

(l)P All the control, connecting and measuring devices shall be periodically checked and calibrated
against a suitable reference instrument to assure that they provide reliable and accurate
measurements.

(2)P The dilatometer blade and membrane shall be checked before penetrating in the soil. The blade
shall be mounted axially with the rods. It shall be planar and coaxial and have a sharp penetration
edge. The membrane shall be clean of soil particles, free of any deep scratches, wrinkles or dimples
and expand smoothly in air upon pressurization.

(3)P The maximum out of plane deviation of the blade, defined as the maximum clearance under a
150 mm long straight edge placed along the blade parallel to its axis, shall not exceed 0,5 mm; the
maximum coaxiality error of the blade, defined as the deviation of the penetration edge from the axis of
the rods to which the blade is attached, shall not exceed 1 5 mm.

(4)P The control unit and the tubing shall be checked for leaks before starting a sequence of
dilatometer profilings by plugging the blade end of the pneumatic-electricalcable and checking for any
pressure drop in the system. Leakage in excess of 100 kPa/min shall be considered unacceptable and
shall be repaired before testing begins.
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ENV 1997-3~999

(5) With the dilatometer equipment assembled and ready for testing the switch mechanisms should be
checked by hand pushing the membrane flush with the blade to check that the audio andor visual
signals on the control unit are activated.

9.4.2 Membrane calibration procedure

(l)P The membrane shall be calibrated to measure the values of the APA -suction and A 5 -pressure
with the dilatometer equipment assembled and ready for testing immediatelybefore insertingthe blade
into the soil and upon retrievalto the ground surface, both when running a dilatometer profiling or even
a single test.

(2)P If the values of the membrane calibration pressures APA and A&, obtained before penetratingthe
blade into the soil, fall outside the limits APA = 5 kPa to 30 kPa and
A 5 = 5 kPa to 80 kPa respectively, the membrane shall be replaced before testing commences.

(3) After a membrane has been replaced, the new one should be exercised to improve the stability of
the APA and A 5 values. Such exercising may consist in pressurizing the membrane in air to 500 kPa
for a few seconds. Care should be taken to avoid overexpansion and permanent deformations of the
membrane.

(4)P After any membrane calibration the values of APA and A 5 shall be promptly recorded. All the
obtained values of APA and A 5 shall be available on site.

(5)P During calibrationthe audio andor visual signal activated by the electric switch shall stop and
return sharply and unambiguously while sensing the 0,05 mm and 1,lO mm expansions respectively.

(6) When testing soft soils the membrane calibration procedure should be performed more than once
to assure that stable values of APA and A&, falling within the prescribed limits, are constantly
determined.

9.4.3 Performing the test

(l)P After the blade has been inserted into the soil and advanced to the selected test depth, the load
applied to the push rods shall be released and the blade pressurizedwithout delay to expand the
membrane.

(2)P The rate of gas flow to pressurize the membrane shall be such that the PA-reading is obtained
within 20 s from reaching the test depth and the 6-reading is obtained within 20 s after the PA-
reading.

(3)P Once 5-has been determined the membrane shall be depressurizedimmediately, in order to
prevent further expansion and permanent deformations, and the blade advanced to the next test depth
or retrieved to the ground surface.

(4) Dependingon the system used to advance the blade, the pneumatic-electriccable connected to the
blade should be pre-threaded through the push rods for protectionor left outside, using a slotted
adaptor to egress it, and taped to the rod every 1 m.

(5) If a friction reducer is used to limit the thrust needed to advance the blade, it should be located at
least 200 mm above the centre of the membrane.

(6)P After the blade has been retrieved to the ground surface and the membrane calibration procedure
performed the values of APA and A& shall be recorded and compared with those measured
previously. If the values of APA and A 5 measured before inserting the blade into the soil and after
retrieval to the ground surface differ by more than 25 kPa then the test performed between the two
successive calibration procedures shall be discarded.
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9.5 Interpretation of the results

(1) Results of DMT tests can be interpreted using well established correlations to determine the subsoil
stratigraphy, the deformation properties of cohesionless and cohesive soils, the in situ state of stress
and the undrained shear strength of cohesive soils.

(2) The interpretationof the results of DMT tests requires a knowledge of the in situ pore water
pressure ~.b and the effectivevertical stress da prior to blade insertion. The value of 4 at any test
depth should be determinedfrom reliable pore water pressure measurements.The value of da at any
test depth should be estimatedfrom the unit weight of the soil layers above that depth.

(3)When interpretingthe results of DMT tests the values of A,p,, and d* should correspond
consistently to the same test location and membrane depth.

(4) The soil pressure p, against the DMT membrane when its centre is expanded 1,lO mm should be
determined using the following relationship:

(5) The soil pressuref i against the DMT membrane when its centre is flush with the blade should be
determined with a linear backextrapolation from the soil pressure against the membrane at the two
preset deflections, 0,05mm and 1,lO mm, hence using the following relationship:

(6) The material index Qm,the horizontal stress index &MT and the dilatometer modulus &JT should
be calculated using the following relationships:

- 4MT=h-fi)lb*I.bh
- &MT=(Rl-4)/da.
- &MT=34,7@1-A).

9.6 Reporting of the results

(1)P In addition to the requirements given in 2.6 the test report shall include the following information:

- rig and rod types;

- characteristics of systems used to advance the blade;
- predrilling depth and system to support the borehole if any;
- diameter and location of friction reducer if used;
- thrust applied to the push rods and at the top of the blade if measured;
- elevation of the groundwater table;
- proceduresto calculate the pore pressure against the membrane at each test elevation:
- characteristicsof the measuring system to obtain the in situ pore pressure when relevant;
- type and size of dilatometer blade and membrane:
- zero readings of pressure measurement devices;
- values of the APA- and A 6 -calibration-pressures measured before and after each dilatometer
profilingor single test and corresponding average values;
- tabulated output of values of PA-and 5-pressure-readings;
- tabulated output of the calculated values of p,- and p,-pressure:
- any relevant observationof the operator such as incidents, equipment damage during testing,
repairs and replacements, details not included in the above list which may affect the interpretationof
test results.
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9.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters

9.7.1 Bearing capacity of spread foundations

(l)P When the bearing capacity of spread foundations is evaluated based on DMT results, an
analytical method shall be used.

(2) When the sample analytical method of annex B in EC 7 Part 1 is used, the derived value of the
undrained shear strength c,of non cemented clays, for which the DMT test results show 4w < 0,8,
can be determined using the following relationship:

C, = 0,22dw (0,5 &T)''*~

or any other well documented relationshipbased on local experience.

9.7.2 Settlement of spread foundations

(1) When applying the adjusted elasticity method of annex D in ENVl997-1 the one dimensional
settlement of spread foundations may be calculated using values of the one dimensionaltangent
modulus & determinedfrom results of DHT tests as shown in annex H.In cohesive soils such
procedure should be applied when the stress increase induced by the foundation load is less than the
preconsolidation pressure.

9.7.3 Pile foundations

(l)P When the ultimate bearing resistance of piles is evaluated from DMT results an analytical
calculationmethod shall be applied to derive the values of base and shaft resistance.
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10 ROCK DILATOMETER TEST (RDT)

10.1 General

(l)P This test covers the determinationof the in situ deformability of rocks from measurements of the
radial expansion of a borehole section under a known uniform radial pressure applied by means of a
cylindrical dilatometer probe.

(2)P The basis of the test consists of inserting a cylindrical probe, having an outer expandable flexible
membrane, into a borehole, and measuring, at selected intervals or in a semi-continuous manner at
closely spaced test locations, the radial displacement of the borehole while inflatingthe probe under a
known radial pressure.

(3) This test is used mainly in hard rock formations to obtain profiles of deformability variations with
depth.

(4)P The tests shall be carried out in accordance with a method that complies with the requirements
given in this section.

(5)P The test method used shall be reported in detail with the test results.

(6) The test method may be reported by reference to a published standard.

10.2 Definitions and symbols

10.2.1 Dilatometer probe and testing apparatus

(1) The main components of a dilatometer apparatus for testing in rocks are defined in fig. 10.1.

Pressure measurement
and recording unit

Dilatometer
n probe
p . $ 7 ; T - Z i. . 2 Z i r

Pump operation mnd Valve High prerrure Membrane Endcap

fluid dinplacement tublng
control unit

Flexlble Displacement tranrducem

membrane location Central r h d t

Hlgh prerrure
connection

Retaining Removable end Inserting tool

nut cap washer threedert adaptor

Figure 10.1:The main components of a dilatometer apparatus In rocks

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ENV 1997-3:1999

(2)P probe: cylindrical device consisting of an outer flexible membrane mounted on an inner steel core
that can be filled with a pressurizedfluid so that the membrane can be inflated from the inside and
expanded against the wall of the borehole to apply a uniform radial pressure.

(3)P membrane stiffness: pressure that shall be applied inside the probe to inflate and expand the
membrane in air.

(4)P membrane compression: change in thickness of the membrane as the pressure inside the
probe is increased.

(5)P calibration cylinder: cylinder made of a material of known elastic properties and having an inner
diameter slightly larger than the deflated diameter of the probe and length equal to that of the probe.

(6)P hydraulic system stiffness: increase of pressure applied at ground surface to the dilatometer
apparatus that corresponds to a given volume increase of the hydraulic pressurizingsystem measured
at ground surface.

(7)P borehole dilation AD average increase of borehole diameter Dalong a test section under the
applied pressure;

(8)P seating pressure A: minimum pressure that shall be applied before expanding the probe to
ensure permanent contact of the flexible membrane with the borehole wall with no sliding;

(9)P pressure-dilation graph: plot of applied pressure and corresponding dilation such as n versus
AD, pi versus probe volume.

10.2.2 Symbols of dilatometer parameters

(l)PThe following parameters are defined:

- R: the pressure inside the probe during testing;

- flc: the pressure applied to the borehole wall during testing;
- v,; the Poisson's ratio of the tested rock;
- 6:the dilatometric modulus of deformation of a borehole test section;
- 4,: the secant dilatometric modulus of a borehole test section corresponding to a finite increase of
pressure A&

10.3 Equipment

10.3.1 Drilling equipment

(l)PThe drilling equipment shall be capable of providing a clean and smooth walled borehole having a
diameter slightly larger than the deflated diameter of the probe and smaller than the diameter of the
probe when expanded in air under the expected range of pressures that will be applied during testing.

(2) When necessary the borehole wall should be supported by casing, except in the test section, or by
cementation and subsequent redrilling. During cementation the head of fluid grout should not exceed 3
m to avoid pressure grouting. After redrillingand prior to testing the cement lining should be thinner
than 1 mm.
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ENV 1997-3: 1999

10.3.2 Pressurizing system

(l)P The hydraulic system to pressurize the dilatometer probe shall be capable of storing and
displacing the necessary volume of fluid to fill, inflate and deflate the probe, applying all specified
ranges of fluid pressure and also performing cyclic loading and stress relaxationtesting when required.

(2) For measurements in hard rock formations the application of pressures as high as 20 MPa should
be expected.

(3)P The stiffness of the hydraulic system shall be such that the dilation of the system is minimal if the
radial displacements of the borehole are backcalculated from measurements of volume changes taken
at ground level.

(4) Glycerin, ethylene glycol, water and hydraulic oil should generally be used as pressurizing fluids.

10.3.3 Measuring system

(l)P The measuring system shall be capable of determining the applied fluid pressure with a sensitivity
better than 2% and the volume of fluid displaced to pressurize the probe with an accuracy of 1% of the
probe volume over the full range of pressures to be employed during the testing program.

(2)P When borehole displacementsare obtained from direct measurements against the borehole wall,
as with displacement transducers, the measuring device shall be capable of determining the borehole
diameter with an accuracy of at least 0,02mm.

10.3.4 Calibration equipment

(1)P At least one calibration cylinder of known elastic properties with internal diameter equal to that of
the borehole and length equal to that of the probe shall be available on site to determine the stiffness
of the dilatometer testing system.

(2) The calibration cylinder should have a stiffness similar to that of the rock mass to be tested and
should allow calibration over the full range of pressures specified for the testing program.

(3)Two or more calibration cylinders of different stiffness should be used to improve accuracy and
precision of the calibration procedure.

10.3.5 Dilatometer probe

(l)P The probe shall be fitted with the necessary components to ensure pressure and leakage control,
system bleeding and connection with rods, high pressure tubing and cable to pressurize and position
the probe inside the drillhole.

(2) The flexible membrane should be strong enough not to be damaged when inserted into and
withdrawn from the borehole but flexible enough to transmit not less than 90% of the pressure acting
inside the probe.

(3)P For testing in a hard rock formation a probe equipped with the necessary measuring devices that
allow to measure borehole dilations directly against the borehole wall shall be used. The measuring
devices shall be mounted at mid point of the membrane and equally spaced.

(4) Probes not equipped with the necessary devices to measure borehole dilations directly against the
borehole wall should be used only when testing in weak rocks or when large deformations compared to
the probe volume are expected.
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10.4 Test procedure

10.4.1 Calibration and checks

(l)P All measuring devices shall provide reliable and accurate measurements.

(2)P Prior to performing each test series, and periodicallyduring a testing program or after major
repair, the complete dilatometer equipment shall be thoroughly checked, with the probe and the
hydraulic and pressurizingsystems filled with the pressurizing fluid, thoroughly bled to remove any
entrapped air and pressurized to check for leaks.

(3)P The probe shall be inflated in air, without confinement, and measurements taken to obtain an
unconfined pressure-dilationrelationship from which the stiffness of the flexible membrane shall be
determined.

(4)P When using probes fitted with displacement transducers that measure the dilation of the
membrane relative to the inner cove, instead of relative to the borehole wall the membrane
compression shall be determined prior to testing.

(5)P When using equipment that allows measurementsof fluid pressure and of volume of displaced
fluid at ground surface only, the hydraulic system stiffness shall be determinedprior to testing.

(6)P The hydraulic system stiffness shall be determined from knowledge of the stiffness of the
calibration cylinder and of the overall stiffness of the hydraulic system plus calibration cylinder.

(7)P The overall stiffness of the hydraulic system plus calibration cylinder shall be determined from a
-
pressure dilation graph obtained with the probe inserted in the calibration cylinder by increasingthe
fluid pressure in increments and measuring the correspondingvolume of displaced fluid. The pressure
shall be increased through the range of pressures specified for the requiredtesting program to obtain
at least five measurements of pressure and corresponding volume of displaced fluid.

10.4.2 Performing the test

(l)P After the hole is completed the diameter and clearance shall be checked and recorded prior to
insertingthe probe.

(2) Borehole clearance should be checked using a cylindrical gauge of the same size as the probe.
The wall of the borehole should be checked for fissures, voids and rock fragments, that might damage
the flexible membrane or trap the probe.

(3)P The position of the probe at the requiredtest depth shall be measured with an accuracy of f 50
mm and recorded.

(4) When a continuous profile of deformabilityis required the vertical depth increment between
successive test elevations should vary between 1 m and 5 m.

(5)P After the probe has been positionedat the required test depth, it shall be inflated to apply at first
the seating pressure that shall be the minimum pressure throughout the test.

(6)P With the probe seated the pressure shall be increased in at least five approximatelyequal
increments to the maximum possible value not exceeding the safe operation pressure of the testing
equipment.

(7)P Measurements of the applied pressure and of the volume of displaced fluid or of the borehole
dilation shall be taken and recorded at each pressure increment. Each increment shall be held for a
period sufficiently long to determine whether the rock behaviour is time dependent.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

(8) Time dependent behaviour and creep rates should be evaluated by maintaining the volume of fluid
inside the probe constant while the drop in pressure with time is recorded or by maintainingthe fluid
pressure constant while the increase of borehole dilation with time is recorded.

(9)P The maximum pressure shall be maintained constant for at least 10 min. and measurements of
volume of displaced fluid or of borehole dilation shall be taken and recorded throughout this length of
time.

(10) Measurements of the applied pressure and of the volume of displaced fluid or of the borehole
dilation should also be taken and recorded during unloading.

10.5 Interpretation of the results

(1) The results of cylindricaldilatometer tests can be used to determine the deformation properties and
the creep properties of the in situ rock at the test location in intact rocks.

(2) In fragile or clayey rocks and in fractured or closely jointed formations, where core recovery is poor
or inadequate for purpose of obtaining representative samples for laboratory testing, the cylindrical
dilatometer test can be used for rapid index logging of boreholes and for comparisons of relative
deformabilitiesof different rock strata.

(3) The interpretation of cylindrical dilatometer tests requires a knowledgeof the Poisson's ratio of the
tested rock.

(4) In hard and non fractured rocks and when the applied pressure and corresponding borehole dilation
are measured directly against the borehole wall the dilatometric modulus of deformation 4 of a
borehole test section can be determined from the slope of the straight portion of a pressure-strain
graph for the range of pressures greater than the seating pressure as shown in figure 10.2.
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ENV 1997-311
999

I I I I I
Radial rtrain (& =A D/D)

= seating pressure)
Figure 10.2: Definition of dilatometrlc modulus (4

(5) The value of the secant dilatometric modulus 4,expressed in MPa and correspondingto a
pressure increment A A ~can be determined from the graph shown in figure 10.2 or using the following
relationship:

where:
A& is the pressure applied to the bore hole wall, in Mpa;
AD is the bore hole dilatation, in m;
D is the borehole diameter prior to testing, in m.

(6)P When the applied pressure is measured inside the probe the value of ncshall be determined from
the corresponding value of A corrected to account for membrane stiffness before determining the
values of 4 and 4,.

(7)P When borehole dilation is determined from measurementsagainst the internal wall of the
membrane, these measurements shall be corrected to account for membrane compression before
determining the values of 4 and 4,.

(8)P When the pressure applied to the borehole wall and the correspondingborehole dilation are
determined from measurements of fluid pressure and of volume of displaced fluid taken at ground
surface these measurements shall be corrected to account for hydraulic system stiffness, membrane
stiffness and membrane compression.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

10.6 Reporting of the results

(l)P In addition to the requirementsgiven in 2.6 the test report shall include the following information:

- barehole diameter and length;

- detail of the drilling program including method and equipment used;
- a geotechnical log of the drill core showing rock type and properties, ground water level, locationof
test sections and of cased and cemented sections, if any;
- details of equipment and procedure for testing and calibrationtogether with results of calibration
including ambient air temperature at time of calibration;
- tabulated test readings of the applied pressure and correspondingvolume of displaced fluid or of the
measured borehole dilation for each transducer obtained at each test depth within the boreholes
and for each pressure range and time interval;
- plots of pressure-dilationcurves obtained during calibration and testing for each test depth and for
each displacement transducer inside the probe when relevant:
- plots of pressure-dilationcurves obtained during calibration and testing for each test depth corrected
for system stiffness, membrane stiffness and membrane compressionwhen relevant.

10.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters

(1) The results of dilatometertests may be used to check against the serviceabiltty limit state of spread
foundations on rocks through a deformation analysis.

(2) When performinga deformation analysis the Young's modulus Emay be taken equal to 4on the
assumptionthat the rock is linearly elastic and isotropic.
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11 PLATE LOADING TEST (PLT)

11.1 General

(l)P The plate loading test covers the determination of the vertical settlement and strength properties
of soil and rock masses in situ by recording the load and the corresponding settlement when a rigid
plate is loading the ground.

(2) This section covers plate loading tests carried out on a thoroughly levelledground surface or on the
bottom of an excavation at a certain depth or the bottom of a prebored, large diameter borehole.

(3)The test is applicable in all soils, fills and rocks but is normally not suitable for very soft cohesive
soils.

(4)P The test shall be carried out in accordance with a method that complies with the requirements
given in this section.

(5)P The test method used shall be described in detail with the test results.

(6) The test method may be described by reference to a published standard.

(7)P Any deviation from the requirementsgiven below shall be justified and in particular its influenceon
the results shall be commented upon.

(8) Experience with deviations exists with respect to

- plate size;
- test procedure (incrementalloading, constant rate of deformation).
11.2 Definitions

(l)P applied contact pressure p: contact pressure equal to the applied load includingthe weight of
the apparatus acting directly on the plate and the weight of the plate divided by the area of the base of
the plate.

(2)P ultimate contact pressure A: largest possible contact pressure or contact pressure where the
settlement reaches a specified level or increase.

11.3 Equipment

11.3.1 Apparatus

11.3.1 -1 Plate

(l)P The plate shall be rigid .J avoid bending, and nominally flat on th bottom. The top shall contain a
guide to locate the loading column, particularlywhere the test is to be made in a bore hole. The
longitudinal axis of the loading column and the centre of the plate shall coincide and the contact shall
be provided with a bearing.

(2)P When performing test loading of a plate in very heterogeneous ground, the plate shall be of such
a size that it is not influenced by any random firm or weak spot. The width of the plate (6)shall be at
least five, preferably ten times larger than the largest spot.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

(3) In this section circular and square shaped plates are treated. For deriving settlement and strength
properties, circular plates are preferablyused. For direct design, square plates are normally used. If
failure is to occur in a certain direction, this can be achieved by using a rectangular test plate. The ratio
of the smaller dimension of the rectangular plate and the larger dimension should be more than 0,8;
the smaller dimension should normally be more than 1 m.

(4) For circular plates, diameters or more than 0,6 m are normally used.

11.3.1.2 Reaction loading system

(l)PThe reaction load shall be designed such that the required contact pressures below the plate can
be produced and the required settlements can be achieved.

(2) The reaction load may be created by jacking against a counterweight, against tension piles or
anchors or against an existing abutment (see figure 11.1).

(3)P The reaction load or its supports shall be placed sufficientlyfar from the proposed test position so
as to reduce the influence on the results to an acceptable level.

(4) Between the centre of the plate and the reaction system, a distance of 3,5 times the width or
diameter of the plate is normally sufficient.

(5)P The loading column shall have sufficient strength to prevent undue buckling under the maximum
load and in the case of borehole tests shall be clear of the borehole walls.

(6) The loading column should have ball-joint connections to the reaction beam and to the plate,
provided the horizontal stability is secured.

Counterweight
Reaction beam

I 1

L
Anchor rods
>7b
k CI
Grouting
>7b (width of teat plate)

Figure 11.1: System for load application, examples

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ENV 1997-3~1999

11.3.2 Measuring equipment

11.3.2.1 Load measurement system

(l)P A load measurement device shall be placed between the reaction loading system and the test
plate which shall be calibratedto the expected maximum test load and the requiredaccuracy of the
test.

(2)P The accuracy of the load measuring system shall allow to measure any applied load with an
accuracy of 5 %.

(3) The load measuring system should be free of hysteresiseffects.

11.3.2.2 Settlement measuring system

(l)P The settlement measurements of the centre of the plate shall be made with reference to fixed
points which shall not be influencedby the loading of the plate or the reaction loading system.

(2)P The accuracy of the complete settlement measurementsystem shall be within 2 % or at least 0,l
mm.

(3) If dial gauges or electrical displacement transducers to measure the settlement are used, they
should be fixed to a measuring frame which is sufficientlystiff in order to avoid creep and vibration in
the frames

(4) The measuring bridge should be protected against wind, sun and frost.

(5) If large plates of more than 1 m width are used, it is recommendedto measurethe settlements with
a telescope level possessing an accuracy of 0,l mm. Two fixed reference points are to be chosen
which are close enough but outside the area influenced by the loading.

(6) The settlement measurement system should be able to measure the average settlement as well as
the tilting of the plate. At least a three-point measuring system should be centrically located on the
plate; the three measuring points should be equally spaced around the plate.

11.4 Test procedure

11.4.1 Pretest explorations of ground conditions

(l)P In case the existing ground conditions of the test location are not known, they shall be determined
to a depth of more than 5 times (preferably 8 times) the diameter or width of the plate below the test
level.

(2) For rock, a depth of less than 5 times the diameter, or the width of the plate may be sufficient for
laboratory investigations.

11.4.2 Calibration and checks

(l)P The manometers, the load transducer system and the electric displacement transducers shall be
calibrated at least every six months and be checked before each field operation.

(2)P The dial gauges and the displacement transducer system shall be checked before every test at
the site by insertinga measuringblock of known size under the tip of the gauge.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

11.4.3 Preparation of test area

(l)P The ground shall be undisturbed if the test is conducted in natural soil or rock. Disturbed material
shall be removed.

(2)P The contact surface of the soil or rock to the plate shall be smooth and horizontally levelled.

(3) If necessary this can be achieved by fill-in material with a higher strength than that of the ground.
For tests on cohesive soils, as soon as possible after levelling the ground, the paste of a quick-setting
plaster should be poured and spread to obtain a levelled surface not more than 20 mm thick.
Immediately after the paste has been spread, the plate should be bedded.

(4) For tests on granular soils, any hollows should be filled with clean dry sand to produce a levelled
surface on which to bed the plate.

(5) The final preparation of the test level, in both pits and boreholes should be made by hand, if
possible.

(6)P In case several tests are to be conducted within a given area, the distance between the centres of
neighbouring plates shall be at least 6 times the diameter or width of the plates.

(7) In the case of a plate of cast in situ concrete, no special preparation of the contact surface of the
soil is necessary; in the case of rock, the surface should be cleaned by hand from debris.

11.4.4 Preparation and setting up of loading and measuring apparatus

(l)P When tension piles are used for the reaction, they shall be installed before the test area is
exposed. Tension piles shall not influence the test ground.

(2)P The test plate shall not be preloaded during erection of the reaction and force measurement
systems. The loading column shall be positioned centrally over the plate and perpendicularly so that
the reaction load is applied direct to the plate without eccentricity.

11.4.5 Loading test

11.4.5.1 Incremental loading test

(l)P An incremental loading test shall be conducted if drained loading properties of the soil are to be
derived.

(2)P The load shall be applied in equal increments (about ten steps) and shall be kept constant for a
certain time within each increment.

(3)P In cohesive soils, primary consolidation shall have taken place at the end of each load increment;
this shall be checked by evaluating the time-settlementcurves including the creep at the end of each
increment.

(4) In nontohesive soils, each load step is normally applied for 8 min. and the settlements are
measured after 1,2,4 and 8 min. or continuously 1 to 2 times per min. with an automatic
measurement equipment. Sometimes, each load step is applied for 16 min. instead of 8 min.

(5) In the case of tests for direct design, the load increment up to the assumed working load may be
extended over a longer time period (one to two months) in order to estimate longterm behaviour.

(6)P The test shall be conducted using loading and unloading cycles if an indication of the relative
amounts of reversible and permanent settlements has to be obtained.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

(7) While unloading, the decrements may be twice as large as in the case of loading.

(8) Unloadingand reloading cycles should be applied before the critical load is reached; complete
unloading should be avoided.

11.4.5.2 Constant rate of penetration test

(1) A constant rate of penetration test may be conducted if undrained loading propertiesof cohesive
soil are to be derived. The rate of settlement should be chosen accordingto the permeabilityof the soil
and to the size of the plate in order to ensure undrainedconditions during the test.

(2) The test should be conducted until a settlement equal to fifteen percent of the plate diameter or
width has been reached.

11.5 Interpretation of the results

(1) The results of a PLT are presented as applied contact pressure (a)
versus settlement curves and
an indication of the ultimate contact pressure (see figure 11.2).

Average contact pressure, p, Wa

Figure 11.2: Relation between applied contact pressure and settlement for a plate founded on
sensitive clay, or dense sand

(2) The ultimate contact pressure b)from the PLT results may be taken as:

- the largest possible pressureA ~in,sensitive clays or dense sands, (see figure 11.2);
- the pressure & at which the creep = s(t+ ~4 - s(t) increases considerably (see figure 11.3);
- equal to the pressure& at a defined settlement e.g. equal to 15 % of the diameter or width of the
plate.

Average contact preseure. p. kPa 1

+ \

Figure 11.3: Evaluation of the ultimate contact pressure at creep,

(& can be an alternative method to determine the ultimate contact pressure a)
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ENV 1997-3:1999

11.6 Reporting of results

(l)P In addition to the requirements given in 2.6 the report shall include the following information:

- number of the plate;

- size of the plate;
- location;
- method of gaining access to plate test position, e.g. by borehole, test pit etc.;
- sizdarea of test pit, diameter of borehole etc.;
- elevation of the test plate;
- time (start and end of test);
- description of tested soil or rock;
- description of the test arrangements (reaction and loading systems and settlement measurement
system);
- calibrationdata and checks of measuring equipment;
- rate of settlement during each load increment (loading programme);
- time and applied contact pressure dependent readings of settlements
- applied contact pressure versus settlement graphs including loading and unloading cycles;
- creep during each increment or loading cycle;
- time versus settlement graphs from load increments of interest;
- time versus temperature (at the test plate) readings;
- any relevant observations of the operator which may affect the interpretationof test results.

11.7 Derived values of geotechnical parameters

(1) The results of a PLT may be used to predict the behaviour of spread foundations.

(2) For deriving geotechnical parameters of a homogeneous layer (for use in indirect design), the layer
should have a thickness beneath the plate of at least 2 times the width or diameter of the plate.

(3) Results of PLT may only be used for direct design if

- the size of the plate has been chosen considering the width of the planned spread foundation (in
which case the observations are transformed directly);
- a homogeneous layer up to 2 times the width of the planned spread foundation exists (in which case
- -
the results of smaller sized plates not consideringthe planned foundation width are used to
transform the results on an empirical basis to the actual foundation size).

(4) If the sample analytical method for bearing capacity of annex B of

ENV 1997-1 is used, the undrainedshear strength c, may be derived from a PLT conducted at a
constant rate of penetration.

(5) In annex 1.1 an example of the assessment of the derived value of c,is given.

(6) If the sample adjusted elasticity method for settlement evaluationof annex D of ENV 1997-1 is
used, the Young's modulus E, may be derived from the plate settlement modulus €&, based on
established experience.

(7) In annex 1.2 !he determinationof 6~is shown.

(8) The coefficient of subgrade reaction ksfor evaluating settlements may be derived from results of an
incremental loading test.
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ENV 1997-311
999

strip footing width 03 1,O 1 3

[m]
rectangulartest plate area 1,0 . 2,25 40
lm21

(12) In case plate sizes smaller than defined in 11.7(11)have to be used, the settlements of the footing
in sand may be derived according to annex 1.4.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

12 SOIL SAMPLING

12.1 *General
(l)P The aim of soil sampling is to obtain samples for soil identification and for laboratory testing to
determine geotechnical properties of the ground.

(2) Important soil properties needed in geotechnicaldesign are strength and deformation properties. In
the laboratory these properties can be obtained reliably only from high quality undisturbed samples,
representative of each soil layer. From granular materials it is possible to obtain undisturbed samples
only using special methods not covered in this section. Strength and deformation properties of these
soils are usually supported by in-situ tests and confirmed by disturbed samples. Soil classification
properties may be obtained also from disturbed samples.

(3)Commonly used laboratory tests for soil identification and determination of geotechnical properties
of soils are covered in ENV 1997-2

12.2 Catagories and concepts

12.2.1 Categories of sampling methods

(1) There are three categories of sampling methods:

- category A sampling methods;

- category B sampling methods;
- category C sampling methods.
(2) By using category A sampling methods, the intention is to obtain samples in which no or only slight
disturbance of the soil structure has occurred during the sampling procedure or in handling of the
samples. The water content and the void ratio of the soil correspond to that in situ. No change in
constituents or in chemical composition of the soil has occurred.

(3)By using category 6 sampling methods, samples contain all the constituents of the in situ soil in
their original proportions and the soil has retained its natural water content. The general arrangement
of the different soil layers or components can be identified. The structure of the soil has been
disturbed.

(4) By using category C sampling methods, the soil's structure in the sample has been totally changed.
The general arrangement of the different soil layers or components has been changed so that the in
situ layers cannot be identified accurately. The water content of the sample may not represent the
natural water content of the soil layer sampled.

12.2.2 Area ratio and inside clearance of the sample tube

(1)P The area ratio (%) of the sample tube is defined by the following relation:

where:

D, is the inside diameter of the cutting shoe;

4 is the greatest outside diameter of the cutting shoe.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

(2) The area ratio is one of the factors that determine the mechanical disturbance of the soil, being the
ratio of the volume of soil displaced by the sampler tube in proportion to the volume of the sample.

(3)P The minimum length of the tube where the area ratio shall be applied is two times the outside
diameter of the tube or cutting shoe, see figure 12.1.

(4) Thin-walled samplers have a sample tube with the area ratio equal or less than 15 % and thick-
walled open-tube more than 15 %.

--- 2

Liner Sample tube Cutting shoe

I

SamDle tube or barrel

Figure 12.1: Definitions and measures of sample'tubes

(5)P The inside clearance ratio G (%) of the sample tube is defined as:

a-d
C=- x100
d
where:

D, is the inside diameter of the cutting shoe;

4 is the inside diameter of the sample tube or liner.
(6) The inside clearance ratio is one of the factors that determine the mechanical disturbance of the
soil caused by the friction on the inside wall of sample tube or of the liner.
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ENV 1997-3~1999

12.2.3 Techniques for sampling

(1) Techniques for obtaining soil samples can be divided in four groups defined as follows:

- drive sampling, in which a tube or a split-tube sampler having a sharp cutting edge at its lower end is
forced into the ground either by a static thrust (by pushing), by a dynamic impact or by percussion.
Drive samplers are usually open tube samplers or piston samplers. Drive samplers are mostly used
as category A or B sampling methods:
- rotary core sampling, in which a tube with a cutter at its lower end is rotated into the ground, thereby
producinga core sample. Rotary core samplers can have a single, double or triple tube rotary core
barrel with or without a liner. Rotary core sampling is usually used as category B sampling methods,
in some cases as category A sampling methods. Rotary core sampling can be replaced by
vibrocoring;
- auger sampling with hand or mechanical augers. Augers are usually used as category C and rarely
as category B sampling methods;
- block sampling made by hand cutting from a trial pit, shaft or heading or at depth using specially
made block samplers with cutting procedure. Block sampling is mostly used as category A sampling
methods.

12.2.4 Quality classes of soil samples related to sampling catagories

(1) According to 2.3 of ENV 1997-2soil samples for laboratory tests are classified in five quality
classes with respect to the soil properties that are assumed to remain unchanged during sampling and
handling, and the catagory of sampling that may be used. The classes are described in table 12.1.

12.3 Equipment

12.3.1 Basic requirements for samplers

(l)PA sampler shall have the technical details in order to ensure the following:

- to get the soil into the sampler and keep it there during withdrawal of the sampler;
- to obtain the sample with a minimum of disturbance of the soil material during the actual sampling
and before and after this operation.

(2)PA sampler shall be detailed such that it is possible to obtain samples of a required quality
according to 2.3 of ENV 1997-2from the soil in which the sampler will be used.
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ENV 1997-311999

Table 12.1: Quality classes of soil samples for laboratory testing

-- -
Soil properties/ quallty class
Unchanged soil properties
-
1 -
2 3 L

particle size t 0 0

water content 0 t 0

density, density index, permeability t 0

compressibility, shear strength

Properties that can be determined
-- -
0

sequence of layers t t t

-
boundaries of strata broad 0 0 0

-
boundaries of strata fine t

Atterberg limits, particle denslty,

organic content t t 0

water content t t t

density, density index, porosity, permeability 0 0

compressibility, shear strength

Sampling category to be used
- -,
t

12.3.2 Requirements for drive samplers

12.3.2.1 General

(l)P Drive samplers used as category A sampling methods shall fulfil all1 requirements presented in
12.3.2.2 to 12.3.2.7.

(2) Fulfillingthese requirements does not guarantee that totally undisturbed samples will always be
obtained, but it should at least minimize the disturbance of samples and thus the effect of such
disturbance on the results of laboratorytests performedon these samples.,

12.3.2.2 Diameter of the sample tube

(1)PFor catagory A sampling methods, sample tubes with the inside diameter less than 70 mrn, and in
soft clays less than 50 mm shall not be used. The cross section of the sample tube shall be circular.

(2) For catagory A sampling methods, sample tubes having an inside diameter of 100 mm are
recommended.

12.3.2.3 Length of the sample tube

(l)P For category A the maximum tube length for samplers used sampling methods shall be such that
the inside wall friction and adhesion during the actual sampling do not have too much influence on the
results of the laboratory test to be performed.

(2) A sample tube length of 2 to 6 times the inside diameter of the tube should be used for category A
sampling methods. Sample tubes for cohesive soils may often be somewhat longer.
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ENV 1997-311999

12.3.2.4 Wall thickness of the sample tube

(l)P The wall thickness of the sample tube shall be adequate to resist distortion while it is driven into
the soil. A sample tube shall, however, be thin enough to minimize the disturbance of soil caused by
displacement when the tube is inserted into the soil.

(2) In some samplers and soils liners inside the sample tube may be used.

(3)P For category A sampling methods the area ratio of the sample tube shall be kept as small as
possible consistent with the strength requirements of the tube.

(4) For category A drive sampling methods in soft sensitive clays an area ratio of less than 15 Yo is
recommended.

(5) For category A sampling methods in non-sensitive cohesive soils the area ratio of the sample tube
should be less than 30 %.

12.3.2.5 Shape of the cutting edge

(l)P The cutting edge of the cutting shoe shall be sharp, and the taper angle as narrow as practicable.

(2) The taper angle should be specified in relation to the area ratio. For a sampler with an area ratio
exceeding 15 % the taper angle should be less than 10" except close to the edge where the edge
angle may be increased in order to avoid damaging the feather edge.

12.3.2.6 Inside clearance

(l)P The inside of the sample tube or liner shall be clean and smooth without any protruding edges or
irregularities which may disturb the soil.

(2)P The inside clearance shall be sufficient to allow some lateral expansion of the sample to take
place, but it shall not be so much that it permits excessive deformations and causes unnecessary
disturbance of the sample.The inside clearance shall not be so much that it completely eliminates the
inside wall friction thereby causing loss of the sample during withdrawal or loss of lateral support
thereafter.

(3) For catagory A sampling methods it is recommended to have an inside clearance ratio of 0,570to
1,O Yofor sample tubes used in cohesive soils and up to 3,O% in other types of soils.

12.3.2.7 Sample retainer

(1) A sample retainer between the cutting edge and the sample tube may be used in soils that are
difficult to sample, but preferably not for cohesive soils. The use of a sample retainer causes
disturbance of the sample.

12.4 Sampling procedure

12.4.1 Selection of sampling method

(l)P The sampling category and sampling method shall be selected in advance in accordance with the
quality of the sample required for classificationof soils and for the laboratory test to be performed.

(2) The sample diameter for soils containing large particles should be chosen by the size of the largest
particles of the sampled material.

(3) Different disturbance of sample may be expected when using various sampling methods. The
quality of a sample taken with the same sampler may vary depending on e.g. the soil type to be
sampled, the presence of groundwater and the sampling operation.
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ENV 1997-3:1999

(4) The sampling, transportation and storage procedures should be taken into account when selecting
samples for laboratorytests and interpreting the laboratory test results.

(5) Examples of some of the most common sampling methods and their suitabilityto different
categoriesof sampling methods in different soils are listed in annex K.

12.4.2 Drive sampling operation

(l)P In order to obtain good quality soil samples in stiff soils or when using open-tube drive samplers, a
method of preboring shall be used. A boring technique shall be selected which will minimize soil
disturbance. Boreholes in unstable soils shall be stabilized with casing or using drilling fluid.

(2)P When using open-tube drive samplers as category A sampling methods, or in boreholes without
casings in soft cohesive soils and in cohesionless soils below the groundwater table, the borehole shall
be filled with water or drilling fluid. The level of the fluid shall be maintained at or slightly above the level
of the groundwatertable.

(3)When using category A sampling methods above the groundwater level the borehole should
preferably be kept dry. The borehole may be filled with drilling fluid, but with water only in case of
artesian groundwater.

(4)P In order to obtain samples from the bottom of a prebored borehole by category A sampling
methods the hole shall be cleaned of disturbed soil and segregated material. When using open-tube
drive samplers in a cased borehole the hole shall be cleaned to the edge of the casing.

(5) No cleaning is required when the borehole is uncased and the closed piston sampler is forced into
undisturbedsoil.

(6)P A piston sampler shall be forced through the zone of disturbed soil before the piston is released
and the actual sampling is started.

(7)P When using category A sampling methods in soft to firm cohesive soils the drive sampler shall be
forced into the soil to the predetermineddepth by continuous pushing. There shall be no rotation of the
sampler during the downward movement.
(8) In stiff cohesive soils the sampler may be forced into the soil by a dynamic impact which may,
however, cause additional disturbanceof the sample.

(9)P The sampler shall be withdrawn slowly and carefully and not rotated.

(10) It is advisable to withdraw the sampler after waiting a few minutes so that sufficient adhesion can
develop between the sample and the sampling tube or liner.

(1l)P In sampling category A after the sampling tube has been disconnected from the sampler head
seriously disturbed material from the upper part of the sample shall be removed. The top of the sample
shall be sealed and the open space at the tube top shall be filled out e.g. by remoulded material, foil
and sealed.

(12)P Samples obtained by category A and B sampling methods shall be sealed immediately after
retrieval to prevent change in water content.

12.4.3 Handling and storing of samples

(l)P Samples obtained by category A sampling methods shall be handled in such a way that no
disturbance will occur after withdrawal of the sample or during transportation and storage.

(2) Samples obtained by category A sampling methods should effectively be protected from heat, frost,
vibration and shock during shipment and storage. Great care should be taken not to remove the seals
of the samples and not to deform the sampling tubes.
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(3) Samples obtained by category A sampling methods should be stored during the transportation in a
container and in the laboratory in a room where the temperature and humidity are kept constant and as
close as possible to that of the in situ conditions.

12.5 Reporting on boring and sampling

12.5.1 Boring record

(l)P In addition to the requirements given in 2.6 the boring record shall contain the following
information:

- date of boring;
- coordinates and number of boring;
- ground surface elevation at each boring or other reference level e.g. top of coating;
- the depth of the free groundwater level;
- the method of the preboring if used;
- the use of the casing and the depth of the casing edge of each sampling;
- the use of drilling fluid and the level of the drilling fluid in the borehole;
- the specifications and the type of sampler used, e.g. reference for standard if applicable;
- the diameter of each sample;
- the depth of the top and bottom of the sample;
- boring progress; any obstructions and difficulties encountered during the sampling operation.

12.5.2 Labelling of samples

(l)P All samples shall be numbered, recorded and labelled immediately after retrieval from a borehole
or excavation and sealing.

(2)P The sample label shall show information about

- identification data of the project;

- date of the sampling;
- number of the bore hole;
- the sampling method and the type of the sampler used;
- elevation or depths of the top and the bottom of the sample.
(3)P Samples shall be properly marked so that there can be no doubt about the top and bottom of the
sample.

(4) The soil type according to the visual examination should be given on the label, whenever possible.

12.5.3 Sampling report

(l)P The field report of sampling operations included in the site investigation report shall be clear and
accurate and it shall contain not only the data required for determination of the soil profile and the
location of the samples obtained but also any observations which will contribute to an estimate of the
condition of the samples and of the physical properties of the soil in situ.

(2)P Unsuccessful sampling operations shall be reported.

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13 ROCK SAMPLING

13.1 General

(l)P The aim of rock sampling is to obtain adequate samples for rock identification and for laboratory
testing for reliable rock mechanical information on the stratum.

(2) Important rock properties needed in geotechnical design are structure, strength and deformation
properties. These properties may be appropriately obtained by descriptionof and laboratorytesting on
high quality samples representing the actual stratum.

13.2 Catagories and concepts

13.2.1 Sampling categories

(l)P Adequate samples shall contain all the mineral constituents of the strata from which they have
been taken. Such samples shall not have been contaminated by any material from other strata nor
from additives used during the sampling procedure which distinguished from the sample.

(2) There are three categories of sampling methods for description and laboratorytesting:

- category A sampling methods;

- category B sampling methods;
- category C sampling methods.
(3)By using category A sampling methods it is intended to obtain samples in which no or only slight
disturbance of the rock structure has occurred during the sampling procedure or in handling of the
samples. The strength and deformation properties, water content, density, porosity and the
permeabilityof the rock sample correspond to the in situ values. No change in constituents or in
chemical composition of the rock mass has occurred.

(4) By using category B sampling methods the samples contain all the constituents of the in situ rock
mass in their original proportions and the rock pieces have retained their strength and deformation
properties, water content, density and porosity.

(5) By using category B sampling the general arrangement of discontinuitiesin the rock mass may be
identified. The structure of the rock mass has been disturbed and thereby the strength and deformation
properties, water content, density, porosity and permeability for the rock mass itself.

(6) By using category C sampling methods the structure of the rock mass and its discontinuitieshas
been totally changed. The rock material may have been crushed. Some changes in constituents or in
chemical compositionof the rock material may occur. The rock type and its matrix, texture and fabric
may be identified.

13.2.2 Visual rock identification in the field

(l)P Visual rock identificationshall be based on examination of the rock masses and samples
including all observations of decomposition and discontinuities.

(2)P Weathering classificationshall be related to the geological processes and shall cover the grades
between fresh rock and rock decomposed into soil.

(3)A simplified weathering classificationsubdivided in six grades is given in annex L.

(4)P Discontinuitiesare bedding planes, joints, fissures, cleavages and faults and shall be quantified
with respect to pattern, spacing and inclination using unambiguous terms.
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13.2.3 Rock recovery

(l)P Rock quality designation, RQD is the sum length of all core pieces that are 100 mm or longer,
measured along the centre line of the core, expressed as a percentage of the length of the core run.

(2)P Solid core recovery, SCR is the length of core recovered as solid cylinders, expressed as a
percentage of the length of the core run.

(3)P Total core recovery, TCR is the total length of core sample recovered, expressed as a percentage
of the length of the core run.

13.2.4 Area ratio and inside clearance of the sample tube

(l)P The area ratio and inside clearance defined in 12.2.2 are determining the mechanicaldisturbance
during sampling of rock strata in which a noticeable part is decomposed.

13.3 Equipment

13.3.1 Basic requirementsfor samplers

(l)P A sampler shall be adequatly technical detailed in order to:

- get the rock mass into the sampler and keep it there during breaking off the sample and retrieval of
the sampler;
- obtain samples with the accepted degree of distutbance of the actual rock mass after the sampling
operation.

13.3.2 Techniques for sampling

(1) The most suitable methods for obtaining rock mass samples is related to the structure and the
decompositiongrade of the rock mass and the required laboratory quallty class:

- category A or B: rotary sampling in which a tube with a cutter at its lower end is rotated into the rock
mass, thereby processing a core sample;
- category A or 6: drive sampling in which a tube or a split-tubesampler having a sharp cutting edge
at its lower end is forced into highly or completely weathered rock mass either by a static thrust or by
a dynamic impact. Drive samplers are usually piston samplers or open tube samplers;
- category C: shell or auger sampling, where the sample is taken from the actual drilling tool;
- category C: cuttings sampling in which the rock mass, remoulded and crushed, by cable or rod
handled percussionor cutting tools is brought to the surface by means of bailer or circulation of a
transporting substance;
- category A: block sampling made by hand cutting from a trial pit, shaft or heading or using specially
made block samplers.

(2)P Selection of the technique shall be made in accordance with the sample quality required for
classification of the rock mass and for the laboratory test to be performed.

(3) For rock masses decomposed to completely weathered rock or residual soil all the sampling
techniques described in 13.3.2 may be applied.

(4) Requirements and sampling procedure for the drive sampling technique for use in highly or
completely weathered rock are similar to the requirements and procedures described for soil sampling
in 12.3.2 and 12.4 to which reference is made.
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(5) For fresh rock and masses decomposed less than to completely weathered rock or residual soil the
following techniques may apply:

- rotary sampling:
- cuttings sampling;
- block sampling.
13.3.3 Requirements for rotary samplers

(l)P Rotary samplers for category A sampling in rock masses shall fulfil general requirements related
to discontinuities in the rock mass and the grade of weathering as presented in (3)to (16).

(2) Fulfillingthese requirements cannot guarantee that undisturbed samples will always be obtained.
On the contrary it is normally not possible to core out undisturbedsamples from rock masses
decomposed more than slightly, especially when discontinuities are dominating the rock structure.
However, fulfilling the requirements should at least minimize the disturbance of the samples.

(3) Single-tube core barrels rotate directly against the core and this sampling method may only be
category A in case the rock mass is fresh and without discontinuities.

(4) Double-tube core barrels with ball bearing swivel between the outer tube and the inner tube which
do not rotate against the core may, when used in fresh and slightly weathered rock masses, constitute
a sampling method corresponding to category A and at least category B.

(5) Triple-tubecore barrels containing a liner inside the inner tube remaining stationary will, when used
in moderately and highly weathered rock masses with discontinuities, normally constitute a sampling
method correspondingto category B. When the rock mass is fresh, slightly weathered or converted
into a hard soil with apparent cohesion, this sampling method may be category A.

(6)PThe minimum internal diameter of the core cutter (equal to the core sample diameter) shall be
based on the rock mass structure.

(7) Rock masses with discontinuitiesshould not be cored out using an internal diameter of the cutter
smaller than 76 mm.

(8)PThe minimum length of the inner tube or liner if used shall be such that one core run contains a
quantity of rock mass sufficient for identification and performanceof required laboratory tests.

(9)P The maximum length of the inner tube or the length of the actual core run shall be such that the
inside wall friction does not have too great influence on the results of the laboratory tests to be
performed.

(10) Normal lengths of inner tubes are 1, 1,5,3 and 6 m.

(1 l)P The inside clearance shall be sufficient to allow for the lateral movement of the sample during
the continued core run, but it shall not be so much that it permits excessive deformations and causes
additional disturbance of the sample.

(12)PThe inside wall of the inner tube or liner shall be clear and smooth without any protruding edges
or irregularitieswhich may disturb the sample.

(13) Friction at the inside wall of the inner tube or liner may be reduced by using a cutting edge with an
internaldiameter slightly less than the diameter of the tube or liner.

(14) When sampling highly weathered rock masses or masses with dominating discontinuities inner
tubes or liners split longitudinally may be used to minimize the risk of blocking of the core sample.
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(15) A core catcher placed in the sampling equipment just behind the cutter should normally keep a
cored sample of fresh to moderately weathered rock inside the sampling equipment and mobilize the
necessary resistance for breaking off the core from the rock stratum beneath the cutter face.

(16) For core sampling of highly or completely decomposed rock masses a core retainer such as a
spring basket on the core catcher may be used.

13.4 Rotary sampling

13.4.1 Rotary sampling operation

(l)P Before commencement of rotary sampling category A or B in a predrilled borehole having an

adequate diameter, the hole shall be cleaned out down to the initial sampling depth.

(2)P Before the core barrel is lowered down into the drillhole it shall be checked that

- no friction occurs between the inner tube and the outer tube;
- the distance between the tip of the inner tube and the core bit is according to specifications;
- the drilling fluid will pass the sample at the right place - in case of face discharge only through the
water tracks in the face of the cutter;
- the pump pressure for circulating the drilling fluid is according to specifications.
(3)P During sampling the load on the cutter, the amount of circulated drilling fluid, and the rotation
speed shall be checked complying with the specifications for the actual core barrel in use.

(4)P The penetration rate should be recorded based on time and core run progress.

(5)P The total penetrationduring one core run shall not exceed the net length of the inner tube or liner.

(6)P The core sample all be cut off from the stratum and the sampler retrieved without rotating the core
barrel.

(7)P The sampler all be retrieved at uniform speed.

(8)P If using a rod handled core barrel, shocks on the sampling equipment, from disconnecting the
rods, shall be avoided.

(9)P During withdrawal of the core from the barrel appropriate techniques to ensure that the core
sample is not damaged or disturbed shall be applied.

(1O)P After the sampling tube is disconnected from the core barrel the length of the recovered sample
shall be measured and core losses, if any, determined.

13.4.2 Preservation, handling and storage of core samplers

(l)P Afler sampling and visual inspection has taken place cores from category A and B sampling
methods shall be sealed immediatelyin case the natural water content is to be maintained.

(2) When using a liner the liner should be cut in a length suitable for placement of end caps with
contact to the top and the bottom of the sample.

(3)When using core cases or pipes for transportation and storage the samples should be wrapped in a
water tight film.

(4)P Samples shall be properly marked leaving no doubt about the top and bottom of the sample.
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(5)P Cores from category A and B sampling methods shall be handled in such a way that no further
disturbance will occur after withdrawal of the sample or during transportation and storage.

(6) Cores from category A and B sampling methods should be adequately protected from excessive
heat, frost, vib!ation and shock during shipment and storage. Great care should be taken not to
damage the seals of the samples and not to deform the packing.

(7) Cores from category A and 6 sampling methods should be stored during the shipment in
a container and in the laboratory in a room where the temperature and humidity are kept
constant.

13.5 Reporting of the core sampling operation

13.5.1 Labelling, preservation and handling of core samples

(1)P All samples shall be numbered, recorded and labelled immediately after being sealed.

(2)P The sample label shall show all necessary information about

- identificationdata of the actual project;

- date of the sampling;
- number of the borehole;
- sampling class and type of sampler used;
- elevation or depths of the top and the bottom of the sample;
- the length of the core run.
(3)The rock type, decomposition and possible discontinuities according to the visual examination
should be given on the label, if possible.

13.5.2 Boring report

(l)P In addition to the requirements given in 2.6 the sampling report for boring in rock masses shall
include the following essential data if applicable:

- date of sampling;
- position and elevation of boring location;
- borehole direction: inclinationand orientation;
- whenever possible the depth of the free groundwater level;
- the method of the preboring if used;
- the use of casing and depth of the casing tip;
- the use of drilling fluid and the level of the drillingfluid in borehole;
- colour and colour shifts of drilling fluid;
- loss, if any, of drillingfluid;
- drilling fluid pressure and circulated volume;
- the specificationsand the type of sampler used;
- the diameter or the size of the sample;
- the depth (top and bottom of the sample) and the length of the sample;
- the core run interval;
- pressure on the cutting edge;
- the rock mass type, discontinuities and grade of decomposition based on the visual examinationOf
the sample by the field foreman and his judgement of the sampling category;
- any obstructions and difficulties encountered during the sampling operation.
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(2)P The sampling report shall be clear and accurate, and it shall not only contain the data required for
determination of the rock strata and the location (x,y,z) of the samples obtained but also of any
observations which will contribute to an estimate of the condition of the samples and the physical
properties of the rock mass in situ.

(3)All unsuccessful sampling operation should be recorded.

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14 GROUNDWATER MEASUREMENTS IN SOILS AND ROCK

14.1 General

(l)P Groundwater measurements consist of determiningthe groundwatertable or the pore

pressure in soils and rock with different types of equipment for observation or monitoring
purposes. The measurements are made by installing open pipes or pipes provided with filters
and possibly transducers and loggers to record the pressure at the level of the tip.

(2)P Groundwater measurements shall be used to determine the water pressure or pore
pressure and their variations at pertinent levels for design purposes.

(3)P Groundwater measurements shall also be used for monitoring purposes to control the
pressure during certain activities or for risk evaluations.

(4)P This section handles the measurement of positive pore pressures related to the
atmospheric pressure for building and civil engineering purposes. Thus measurementsof
negative pore pressures are not considered. Groundwater sampling and determinationof
groundwater quality are also outside the scope of this section.

(5)P Groundwater measuringfor geotechnical purposes shall be carried out in accordancewith

the requirements given in this section.

(6)P Any deviations from the requirements given below shall be thoroughly reported.

(7) Additional guidelines for groundwater measurements,presentationof measurementand

derivation of groundwater pressure can be found in annex L.

14.2 Definitions

(l)P closed systems: system where the groundwater in the equipment is preventedfrom
contact with the atmosphere and the pressure is recorded by a transducer.

(2) The advantage of closed systems is that only a small amount of water has to flow into or out
of the pietometer at fluctuations in the pressure. There are hydraulic, pneumatic and electric
closed piezometer systems.

(3)P filter tip: tip for groundwater pipes or piezometers providedwith a filter to prevent particles
from entering the equipment.

(4)P galvanic cell: coupling of different metals or alloys in the ground resulting in a corrosion cell
and an electric current and possibly pore pressure changes.

(5)P groundwater fluctuations: variations in the groundwater table or pore pressure distribution
with time.

(6)P groundwater table: water level where the pore pressure is equal to the atmospheric
pressure at that point and time.

(7)P high air entry value filter: filters with small pores so that, when saturated, they give a high
resistanceto air entry.

(8)P groundwater measuring station: place where one or more equipment for groundwater
measurements are located.
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(9)P open systems: systems where the groundwater in the equipment has a direct contact with
the atmosphere and the measurements are made as water levels in the borehole, pipe or plastic
hose.

(10) The open system in practice consists of three different types: an observation borehole with
or without a casing, an open perforated pipe with a possible filter of coarse sand or geotextile
and finally a pipe provided with a filter tip and possibly an inner plastic hose.

(1l ) P piezometers: equipment for groundwater measurements including both closed and open
systems.

(12)Ppore pressure: pressure of water (or gas) in voids and fissures in the ground at a certain
point and time.

(13)P time lag: time elapsed between a change in atmospheric pressure and corresponding
change in the pore pressure.

14.3 Equipment

14.3.1 General

(l)PThe type of equipment to be used for groundwater measurements shall be chosen in

advance with respect to the actual type of ground, the purpose of the measurements and the
response time of the equipment and the soil system.

(2) At the planning of groundwater measurements for determining the groundwater table or the
pore pressure, the soil and rock conditions ought to be considered especially where there are
great variations in the permeability. At the selection of the measuring system it is also important
to consider the purpose of the measurements:

- to have a single observation of the groundwater table or the pore pressure profile;
- to determine the fluctuations in the groundwater level or pore pressure for a certain period;
- to have a monitoring system.
(3) There are two main methods for measuring the groundwater pressure, open systems and
closed systems:

- open systems in the form of observation boreholes and open perforated pipes can only be
used in homogeneous soils and rock with a high permeability, e.g. sand, gravel or very
fissured rock, where there is no risk for soil particles to enter the borehole or pipe;
- open systems as open pipes with filter tips and an inner plastic hose can also be used in soils
with low permeability e.g. glacial deposits, silts and clay if the response time is short enough
for the purpose of the measurements;
- closed systems should be used in low permeable soils and when continuous recording is
required or short term variations should be monitored e.g. for flow-net derivations. Also in case
of high artesian water pressure closed systems are recommended.

(4) Guidance for the choice of measuring system depending on the purpose of the
measurements and the type of ground at the measuring level can be found in table 14.1.
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Table 14.1 : Suitability of different groundwater measuring systems

depending on their response time and the purpose of the measurements

IGround conditions I Gravel, coarse sand I Fine sand, coarse I Fine silt, glaclal I
silt Ideposits, clay
Purpose of
measurements
measurements of observation borehole open open pipe filter tip
groundwater levels or Pipe filter tip piezometer (hydraulic,
pore pressure profiles filter tip piezometer pneumatic, electric)
and their fluctuations (hydraulic,
pneumatic, electric)
measurements of Filter tip filter tip piezometer (hydraulic,
variations in pore piezometer (hydraulic, piezometer pneumatic, electric)
pressures due to pneumatic, electric) (hydraulic,
fluctuations, pumping, pneumatic, electric)
excavations, loading or
unloading, effects of pile
driving or for monitoring
of e.g. slopes etc. I

(5)P In cases where lakes, rivers or creeks are situated within or close to the actual
investigation area the water level in those shall be measured as references to other
measurements. Also the water level in wells, the occurrence of springs and artesian water
shall be noted.

14.3.2 Basic requirements

(1)P The equipment shall measure the pore pressure in relation to the actual atmospheric
pressure or shall be capable to measure both the total pressure and the atmospheric
pressure.

(2)P Metallic parts of the equipment in electric connection with each other shall be
manufacturedfrom the same type of alloy in order to avoid galvanic cells in the ground.

(3)In case of risk of freezing the measuring system should be filled with an antifreeze medium
with a density equal to that of water or replaced by a closed system if applicable.

(4)P In cases where the pore pressure is to be measured at a certain level or in a certain
layer, special equipment with packers shall be used, or special installation measures shall be
taken to ensure that connections with other layers are blocked.

(5)P The equipment selected shall be adequate to provide reliable data during the whole
observation period.

(6)P Open pipes with filter tips provided with an inner plastic hose shall allow gas bubbles to
pass through the hose.

(7)P Closed hydraulic piezometers shall allow flushing of deaired water through the system in
order to release possible air bubbles.

(8) Piezometers of the closed type should be calibrated before each installation or
reinstallation.

(9) Closed systems should preferably allow for so called zero-checks to be performed during
the measuring period especially for long term measurements.
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(10) Pneumatic pietometers should be calibrated with the actual length of circuit and the
actual measuring unit.

(11)P The required precision of the measurementsfor a certain project, shall be decided in
advance so that a proper equipment for the project can be chosen.

(12) Taking into account all possible sources of error and the compensation for the
atmospheric pressure, the precision of the measurements should normally not be worse than
1 kPa in the range 1 kPa to 100 kPa and 2 kPa for values greater than 100 kPa.

14.4 Test procedure

14.4.1 Installation

(l)P The location and depth of each individual piezometer or groundwater pipe shall be
chosen considering the purpose of the measurements, the topography, the stratigraphy and
the soil conditions, especially the permeability of the ground or identified aquifers.

(2)P The number and location of measuring stations shall be chosen in such a way that an
acceptable interpolationof the groundwater situation can be made for the actual purpose.

(3)P For monitoring projects e.g. groundwater lowering, excavations, fillings and tunnels, the
location shall in addition be chosen with respect to expected changes to be monitored.

(4) The natural fluctuations in the groundwater pressure should also be measured in a
reference measuring station outside but close to and in the same layers as the influenced
zone also before and after the actual activities.

(5)P In order to obtain measurements reflecting the pore pressure in the intended point, soil or
rock layer, provisions shall be made to ensure the required filter and sealing off towards other
layers or aquifers and the function of the measuring equipment.

(6)P Installation of piezometers shall be made either by pushing or by preboring.

(7) During the installationthe following should be checked, depending on the type of
measuring equipment:

- the function of filters before and after installation;

- the saturation of filters and other water filled parts of the piezometer until inserted below
water;
- that air bubbles in circuits are flushed away;
- that the generated excess pore pressure does not exceed the capacity of the equipment;
- that anti-freeze medium is added if applicable;
- that cables or pipes extended above ground surface are protected against filling or damage;
- that surface water cannot flow into the borehole;
- that elevation or depth of filter or stand pipe tip has been taken;
- that the screening to separate different aquifers is sufficient.
14.4.2 Measurements

(l)P The number and frequency of readings and the length of the measuring period shall be
settled in advance in a preliminary plan for each commission consideringthe purpose of the
measurements and the stabilizing period.

(2) All measurements should be related to the actual elevation system at the site.

(3) In order to find long term fluctuations regular measurements at reasonable frequent
intervals over a long time span should be chosen.
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(4) For short term measurements, e.g. for monitoring effects of pile driving, groundwater
lowering or excavations, also automatic recording systems should be considered.

(5) In order to check that reliable results have been obtained at a certain occasion, the
measurements taken should be recorded and checked on site by e.g. comparisons with
previous and neighbouring measurements.

14.5 Interpretation of groundwater measurements

(l)P The results of a groundwater measurement shall be expressed in one of the following
ways:

- water pressure, related to end of open pipe or the average filter level, in m. water collumn;
- water table, elevation, in m;
- pore pressure at a certain depth or elevation, in kPa.

(2)P The interpretationof the groundwater measurements shall be made with respect to actual
measurements, the design of the piezometer and the atmospheric pressure if applicable.

(3)For observational boreholes and open pipes with or without a filter, the groundwater table
is normally related to the upper end of the pipe or the ground surface which should be
recorded.

(4) For hydraulic piezometers the interpretationshould be based on the measured pressure
and the difference in elevation between the measuring unit and the middle of the filter.

(5) For pneumatic or electrical equipment where the membrane is located above the filter the
interpretation should be based on the measured pressure and the difference in elevation
between the middle of the filter and the membrane.

(6)P For pore pressure transducers measuring the total pressure correction shall be made for
the actual atmospheric pressure.

(7) The possible time lag between the changes in atmospheric pressure and corresponding
changes in the pore pressure should be considered.

14.6 Reporting of groundwater measurements

(l)P Records from a groundwater measurement project shall in addition to general information
required in 2.6 contain the following informationwhenever applicable. Records shall be filed
according to commission and presented in the ground investigation report.

- date of installation:
- type of measurement made, related to a certain elevation or atmospheric pressure;
- type of equipment e.g. by reference to published standard;
- atmospheric pressure while setting the zero reading for closed system transducers;
- ground level at the piezometer location;
- elevation of tip of pipe or filter;
- elevation of upper end of pipe;
- date of each reading;
- interpreted pore pressure or water table elevation;
- signatures at installation and each reading;
- other measures taken to investigatethe groundwater flow or quality.

(2) The presentation of the results should consider the purpose of the measurements, the
number of piezometers and the length of the measuring period. Some examples are
presented in annex L.2.
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(3)P The ground investigationreport shall contain an evaluation of the groundwater

measurements with respect to the accuracy or the necessity of making further installations or
measurements.

(4) Inaccuracy in the measurements may occur for many reasons such as:

- gas or air bubbles in the system;

- clogging of the filter;
- insufficient tightening around the pipes;
- temperature fluctuations and freezing;
- changes in calibration factors;
- corrosion due to e.g. a galvanic cell;
- human activities, e.g. pumping in neighbouringwells.
(5) A demand for further installations or measurements may arise where the soil profile is
more complicated and unexpectedgroundwater pressure profiles are obtained.

14.7 Derived values of groundwater or pore pressures

(l)P Values of groundwater pressures shall be derived from groundwater measurements

considering the natural fluctuations in ground, the season of the measurements and the actual
meteorological conditions.

(2)P If applicable both upper and lower values for extreme and normal circumstances shall be
derived. See ENV 1997-1, subclause 2.4.1, paragraph (1O)P and (11).

(3)Upper and lower values for extreme circumstances can be derived from the measured
values by adding or subtracting part of the expected fluctuations at that typical site considering
the ground conditions. Further information can be found in annex M.3.

(4) Upper and lower values for normal circumstancescan be derived from the measured
values by adding or subtracting part of the expected fluctuations at the actual site. The
reduction depends on the design situation, e.g. the time of consolidationfor a soil layer.
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ANNEX A
(Informative)
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ENV 1997-3:1999

ANNEX B.l
(informative)

Cone Penetration Test (CPT)

(1) Table B.l is an example of derived values, from the value of Q, of the angle of shearing
resistance N' and drained (long term) Young's modulus E m for quartz and feldspar sands, for
calculations of the bearing capacity and settlement of spread foundations.

(2) This example correlates the mean value of in a layer to the mean values of N ' and E, (see
subclause 1.3.2).

Relative density Cone resistance (a) Angle of shearing Drained Young's

[MpaI resistance''' ( N I ) modulus2)( E m )
(from CPT-test) [Mpa]
very low -
0,O 2,5 29 - 32 < 10
low -
2,5 5,O 32 - 35 -
10 20
medium -
5,O 10,O 35 - 37 -
20 30
high -
10,o 20,o 37 - 40 -
30 60
very high > 20'0 40 - 42 -
60 90

For additional information and documents giving examples, see Annex M.

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ANNEX 8.2
(informative)

Cone Penetration Test (CPT)

(1) The following is an example of a semi-empirical method for calculating settlements of spread
foundations in cohesionless soils (after Schmertmann, 1970).

(2) The settlement s of a foundation under load pressure q is expressed as:

- k
s = c1x c2 x (4-S l v o ) x j-dz
0 6,
where:

cl -
is 1 0.5 [da/( q - da)];
G is 1,2 + 0,2 . log 1;
da is the initial effective vertical stress at the level of the foundation;
t is the time, in years.

(3) Figure B.l gives for axisymmetric (circular and square) spread foundations and for plane strain
(strip spread foundations) the distribution of the vertical strain influence factor .,/ The derived value
for Young's modulus Emto be used in this method is:

- E , = 2.5 x &, for axisymmetry, and

- E m = 3.5 x qc,for plane strain.

Rlgid foOtb# T d C d
influence b o b r 1,
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.8
0

.5+0.1
\t.s.
9- 0;

p 3B
?
LI

P
4B

*-U -
B
4
.......
....... .......
.......
&pC4 ...........
I........:
: ......

Figure B.l: Values for strain influence factor diagrams

For additional information and examples see Annex M.

 Page 107
ENV 1997-311999

ANNEX 8.3
(informative)

Cone Penetration Test (CPT)

(1) The following is an example of derived values of ' for various types of soils (after Sanglerat,
1972)

-
CL low-plasticity clay: Q s 0,7 [Mpal 3<a<8
0,7 < 2 [Mpa] 2<a<5
Q 2 2 [MpaI 1 < a < 2,5

-
ML low-plasticitysilt: 3<a<6
1<a<2

-
CH very plastic clay
-
MH very plastic silt: 2<a<6
1<a<2

OL - very organic silt: 2<a<8

T-OH-peat and very organic

clay:
50 < w s 100 1,5<a<4
100 < w s 200 1 < a < 1,5
w > 300 a < 0,4

Chalks: 2 < g s 3 [Mpa] 2<a<4

Q > 3 WpaI 1,5 < a < 3

Sands: a=2
a = 1,5

For additional information and examples see Annex M.

Page 108
ENV 1997-3:1999

ANNEX 8.4
(informative)

Cone Penetration Test (CPT)

(1) The following is an example of the determination of the maximum bearing resistance of a single
pile on the basis of the g-values from a CPT.

(2) The maximum bearing resistance of a pile follows from:

where:

where:

is the maximum bearing resistance of the pile, in MN;

is the maximum base resistance, in MN;
is the maximum shaft resistance, in MN;
is the cross sectional area of the base, in m2;
is the equivalent diameter of the base, in m;
Des= 7,73a /(b/aa)
where:
a is the length of the smallest side of the base area, in m;
b is the largest side, in m;
&ar;base is the maximum unit base resistance, in MN/m2;
Q, is the circumference of the part of the pile shafl in the layer in which the base of the
pile is placed, in m;
dL is the distance from the base of the pile to the bottom of the first soil layer above
the base with e 2 MN/m2; moreover AL I;the length of the enlarged part of the pile
point if applied, in m;
&ax;shafl is the maximum unit shaft resistance, in MN/m2;
z is the depth or vertical direction (positive downwards).

(3) The maximum base resistance &;be= can be derived from the following equation:

and
 Page 109
ENV 1997-31999

where:

9c;l;mean is the the mean of the g,l-values over the depth running from
the pile base level to a level which is at least 0,7 times and at most
4 times the equivalent pile base diameter Dw deeper (see figure 8.2);

..,maxibasebecomes minimum;
At the critical depth the calculated value of ,~

Qc;ll:mean is the mean of the lowest 4;:;ll-values over the depth going upwards
from the critical depth to the pile base (see figure 8.2);

~ ~ ; l l isj the
: ~ mean
~ ~ ~value of of the Q;III -values over a depth interval running
from pile base level to a level of 8 times the pile base diameter higher. This
procedure starts with the lowest Q;ll-value used for the computation of G;ll;meen(see
figure 8.2);

For continuous flight auger piles Q;lll;manmay not exceed 2 MN/m2, unless the
results of CPT’s which were performed at a distance from the pile > 1 m after pile
fabrication are used for the calculation of the bearing resistance;

a, is the pile class factor given in table 8.2;

P is the factor which takes account of the shape of the pile point as
shown in figure 8.3;
S is the factor which accounts for the shape of the pile base as shown in
figure 8.4;
OCR is the Over Consolidation Ratio.

(4) The maximum shaft resistance hisha,,

should be determined as follows:

where:

cl, is the factor according to table 8.2 and B.3;

9c:z:a is 4;: at depth z, in MN/m2.
If 2 15 MN/mZover a continuous depth interval of 1 m or more,
5 15 MN/m2over this interval.
Page 110
ENV 1997-31999

When the depth interval with > 12 MN/m2is less than 1 m thick,
~c s 12 MN/m2over this interval.

Table 8.2: Maximum values of a,and a, for sands and gravely sands
Pile class or type
Soil displacement type piles, diameter > 150 mm
- driven prefabricated piles,
- cast in place piles made by driving a steel tube with closed end. 1,o 0,010
The steel pipe is reclaimed during concreting.
Soil replacement type piles, diameter > 150 mm 1,o 0,014
- flight auger piles,
- bored piles (with drilling mud). 0,8 0.006 2,
0,6 I 0,005-
1) Values valid for fine to coarse sands. For very coarse sands a reduction factor of 0,75 is
necessary; for gravel this reduction factor is 05.
2) This value is used in the case of applying !he results of CPT s which were carried out before
pile installation. When CPT s are used that have been carried out in the vicinity of the flight
auger piles, cr, may be raised to 0,Ol.

Table 8.3: Maximum cr;-values for clay, silt and peat

~

Soil type relative depth z/d, rr,

clay/silt (Q I1 MN/m2) 5 < d4q <20 0,025
clay/silt ( ~ Lc 1 MN/m:) d&lr 20 0,055
clay/silt (qc> 1 MN/m ) not applicable 0,035
peat not applicable 0
 Page 111
ENV 1997-3~1999

Figure 8.2: Explanation of %;I, QC;11 and qC;tll

'.

:I
s
0.2

0
3

Figure 8.3: Pile point shape factor Figure 8.4: Values of s

Page 112
ENV 1997-3:1999

ANNEX C.l
(informative)

Pressuremeter Test (PMT)

(1) The following is an example of the calculation of the bearing resistance of spread foundations
using a semi-empiricalmethod and the results of an MPM test.

(2) The bearing resistance is calculated from

-R -- ovo + k (Pun - P O )
A
where:

R is the resistance of the foundation against normal loads;

A is the effective base area as defined in ENV 1997-1;
a,o is the total (initial) vertical stress at the level of the foundation base:
AM representative value of the Mdnard limit pressures at the base of the spread foundation;
po -
is [K, (a, U ) + U] with K, conventionally equal to 0,5,and F, is the total vertical stress at the
test level and U is the pore pressure at the test level;
k is a bearing resistance factor given in table C.l;
B is the width of the foundation;
L is the length of the foundation;
De is the equivalent depth of foundation.

Table C.1: Derived values for the bearing resistance factor, k,

for spread foundations

Soil Category A m k
[Mpa]
A < 0,7 0,8x[1 + 0,25 (0,6 + 0,4 B L ) x D . a
clay and silt 6 -
1,2 2,o 0,8x[1 + 0,35 (0,6.+0,4 BL) xDJ4
C > 2,5 0,8x[1 + 0,50(0,6 + 0,4 BL) xDJ4
A 0,5 [ l + 0,35 (0,6 + 0,4 BL) xDJ4
sand and gravel B -
1,o 2,o [ l + 0,50(0,6 + 0,4 BL) xDJ4
C > 2,5 [ l + 0,80 (0,6 + 0,4 BL) xDJ8j

chalk 1,3x[1 + 0,27 (0,6 + 0,4 B/L) xDJ4

mar1 and [ l + 0,27 (0,6 + 0,4 BR) xDJ4

weathered rock
 Page 113
ENV 1997-31999

ANNEX C.2
(informative)

Pressuremeter Test (PMT)

(1) The following is an example of the calculationof the settlement, s,of spread foundations using a
semi-empirical method developed for MPM tests.

Sb is a reference width of 0,6 m;

B is the width of the foundation;
;b and &
, are shape factors given in table C.2;
a is a rheologicalfactor given in table C.3;
E, is the weighted value of & immediately below the foundation;
4 is the harmonic mean of & in all layers up to 8 x 8 below the foundation;
q 0 is the total (initial) vertical stress at the level of the foundation base;
9 is the design normal pressure applied on the foundation.

Table C.2: The shape coefficients, A, &, for settlement of spread foundations

UB 1 circle I square I 2 I 3 1 S I 20
I 1 153 I 1,78 I 2,14 I 2.65

Table C.3:Derived values for the coefficient a for spread foundations

Type of Description WRM a

ground
peat 1
clay overconsolidated c 16 1
normally consolidated 9 - 16 0,67
remoulded 7-9 0,5

silt overconsolidated > 14 0,67

normally consolidated 5 - 14 0,5

sand > 12 0,5

5 - 12 0,33
sand and > 10 0,33
gravel 6 - 10 0,25
rock extensively fractured 0,33
unaltered 0.5
weathered 0,67

For additional informationand examples, see Annex M.

Page 114
ENV 1997-31999

ANNEX C.3
(i nf ormat ive)

Pressuremeter Test (PMT)

(1) The following is an example of the calculation of the ultimate bearing resistance, (7, of piles from
the MPM test, using

A is the base area of the pile which is equal to the actual area for close ended piles and part
of that area for open ended piles;
AM is the representative value of the limit pressure at the base of the pile corrected for any
weak layers below;
po -
is [& (a; U) + U] with & conventionally equal to 0 3 , and a; is the total vertical overburden
pressure at the test level and U is the pore pressure at the test level;
k is a bearing resistance factor given in table C.4;
P is the pile perimeter;
ai is the unit shaft resistance for soil layer igiven by figure C.l read in conjunction with table
c.5;
zi is the thickness of soil layer i.

Table C.4: Derived values of the bearing resistance factor, k, for axially loaded piles

r Soil category

1 1E clay and silt

c 0,7
-
1,2 2,o
Bored piles and

2,5 193 1,6

sand and gravel c 0,5 1,o 42
-
1,o 2,o 1,1 3,7
C
A
chalk B
C

> 4,5 I I
I (i) Choose kfor ttIIe closest soil category.
 Page 115
ENV 1997-3:1999

Table C.5: The selection of design curves for unit shaft resistance

0.3

0 1 2 3 4 5
limit preaaure, (p LM 1 (MPa)

Figure C.l: Unit shaft resistance for axially loaded plies

For additional information and examples see Annex M.

Page 116
ENV 1997-311
999

ANNEX D.l
(informative)

Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

Table D.l: Values of the energy ratios ER, of the common equipment used in various
countries and the correction factors to apply for normalizingto ER, = 60 ?ito

Country I Hammer I Release ER, (%) ER460

North and South I Donut I 2 turns of rope 45 0.75
America Safety 2 turns of rope 55 0,92
Automatic 55 to 83 0,92to 1,38
Japan Donut 2 tums of rope 65 1,08
78 13
China Donut 2 tums of r o m 50 0,83
Automatic Trip 60 1,o
- 50 0.83
I Automatic I Trip 60 1 ,o
Italy Donut Trip 65 1,08

For additonal information and examples see Annex M

 Page 117
ENV 1997-3:1999

ANNEX D.2
(informative)

Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

(1) Below examples of correlations of blow counts and density indices (Skempton, 1986) are given.

-
(2) The relationship between the blow count Ab,density index 4= (&-e) / (&rax hi,,) and the
effective overburden pressure a;' (kPa x 102) in a given sand can be represented by the
expression:
-N- - a+
60
h2 bnl

The parameters a and b i n normally consolidated sands are nearly constant for
0,35 < 4 < 0,85and 0,5 a;'<2,5, in kPa x 102.

(3) For normally consolidated natural sand deposits the correlation shown in table D.2.has been
established between 4 and the normalized blow count

Very Loose Medium Dense very

loose dense

For 4 > 0,35 it corresponds to (N1)6d42

a 60

(4) For fine sands the N-values should be reduced in the ratio 55/60 and for coarse sands
increased in the ratio 65/60.

(5) The resistance of sand to deformation is greater the longer the period of consolidation. This
"ageing" effect is reflected in higher blow counts, and appears to cause an increase in the
parameter a.

Typical results for normally consolidated fine sands are given in table D.3.

Table D.3: Effect of ageing in normally consolidatedfine sands

[years]
Laboratory tests 10" 35
Recent fills 10 40
Natural deposits > 102 55
Page 1 1 8
ENV 1997-311
999

(6) Overconsolidation increases the coefficient b by the factor

1 + 2 x KO
1+ 2 x KONC
where:

& and &NC are the in situ stress ratios between horizontal and vertical effective stresses for the
overconsolidated and normally consolidated sand respectively.

(7) All the above mentioned correlations have been established for predominantly silica sands.
Their use in more crushable and compressible sands like calcareous sands or even silica sands
containing a non-negligibleamount of fines, may lead to an underestimationof 4.

For additional information and examples see Annex M.

 Page 119
ENV 1997-31999

ANNEX D.3
(informative)

Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

(1) This is an example of derivation of the angle of shearing resistance of silica sands, N ' , from the
density index 6.The values of N' are also influenced by the angularity of the particles and the
stress level.

Desity Fine grained Medium grained Coarse grained

index ID
[YO] Unlform Well graded Uniform Well graded Uniform Well graded
40 34 36 36 38 38 41
60 36 38 38 41 41 43
80 39 41 41 43 43 44
100 42 43 43 44 44 46
Page 120
ENV 1997-3:1999

ANNEX D.4
(informative)

Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

(1) This is an example of an empirical direct method for the calculation of settlements in granular
soils of spread foundations proposed by Burland and Burbidge (1985).

(2) The settlement for stresses below the overconsolidationpressure is assumed to be 113 of that
corresponding to the normally consolidated sand. The immediate settlement, 6, in mm, of a square
footing of width 8 , in m, is then given by:

U'& is maximum previous overburden pressure, in kPa;

4 is average effective foundation pressure, in kPa;
4 is &I&';
61 is the foundation subgrade compressibility,AdA#, in mdkPa.

(3)Through a regression analysis of settlement records the value of k is obtained through the
expression:

k = 1,71I P4
where is the average SPT blow count over the depth of influence. The standard error of 4
varies from about 1 3 for f l greater than 25 to 1,8 for A less than about 10.

(4) The Nvalues for this particular empirical method should not be corrected for the overburden
pressure. No mention is made of the energy ratio (ER,) correspondingto the Nvalues. The effect of
the water table is supposed to be already reflected in the measured blow count, but the correction
N' = 15 + f i x (N15) for submerged fine or silty sands should be applied for N> 15.
In cases involving gravels or sandy gravels, the SPT blow count should be increased by a factor of
about 1,25.

(5) The value of is given by the arithmetic mean of the measured N-values over the depth of
influence, 4 = L?'75, within which 75 % of the settlement takes place, for cases where Nincreases
or is constant with depth. Where Nshows a consistent decrease with depth, the depth of influence
is taken as 2Bor the bottom of the soft layer whichever is the lesser.

(6) A correction factor 4 for the length-to-widthratio (U@of the foundation

should be applied.The value of 4 tends to 1,56 as UBtends to infinity. No depth (0)correction

factor has to be applied for D'B< 3.
 Page 121
ENV 1997-3:1999

(7) Foundations in sands and gravels exhibit time-dependent settlements. A correction factor, 4,
should be applied to the immediate settlement given by:

( = ( 1 +&+eIOg#3)

where ( is the correction factor for time t 2 3 years, R j is the time-dependant factor for the
settlement that takes place during the first 3 years after construction and 13,is the time-dependent
factor for the settlement that takes place each log cycle of time after 3 years.

(8) For static loads conservative values of R j and 6 are 0,3and 0,2 respectively. Thus at t = 30
years, ( = 1 3 . For fluctuating loads (tall chimneys, bridges, silos, turbines etc.) values of R3and 6
are 0,7 and 0.8 respectively so that at I = 30 years, 4 = 2,5.

For additioal information and examples, see Annex M.

Page 122
ENV 1997-31999

ANNEX E.l
(informative)

Dynamic Probing (DP)

(1) This is an example of derived values for the density index 4 from the dynamic probing DP test,
for different values of the uniformity coefficient G (range of validity 3 I Nlo5 50):

a) poorly graded sand (GI 3) above groundwater

4 = 0,15 + 0,260 log Nlo (DPL)

b = 0 , l O + 0,435 log Nlo (DPH)

b) poorly graded sand ( Ca5 3) below groundwater

6 = 0,21 + 0,230 log NI0 (DPL)

4 = 0,23 + 0,380 log N I 0 (DPH)
c) well graded sand-gravel (C;,2 6) above groundwater

h = - 0,14 + 0,550 log 40(DPH).

For additional information and examples see, Annex M
 Page 123
ENV 1997-3~1999

ANNEX E.2
(informative)

Dynamic Probing
(1) This is an example of deriving the effective angle of shearing resistance @’ from the density
index 6,for bearing capacity calculations of cohesionless soils.

Table E.l: Conservative estimates of derived values for the effective

angle of shearing resistance N ’of cohesionless soils from the density
index Q for different values of the unfformity coefficient U

Soil type Grading Range of 4, Angle of

[“/I shearing
resistance
4
15-35 30
sand, sand-gravel (loose)
-
35 65 32,5
(medium dense)
> 65 35
(dense) I

II 1
sand, sand-gravel, gravel well graded, -
15 35 30
(6 5 U < 15) (loose)
-
35 65
(medium dense)
(>65)
dense

For additional information and examples, see Annex M

Page 124
ENV 1997-3:1999

ANNEX E.3
(informative)

Dynamic Probing (DP)

(1) This is an example of the derivation of the vertical stress dependent oedometer settlement
modulus &, frequently recommended for settlement calculation of spread foundations, defined as
follows:

where:

V is the stiffness coefficient;

w is the stiffness exponent; for sands with a uniformity coefficient Us 3:
w= 0,5; for clays of low plasticity (4,s10; cy s 35): w=0,6;
d, is the effective vertical stress at the base of the foundation or at any depth below it due to
overburden of the soil;
d, is the effective vertical stress caused by the structure at the base of the foundation or at any
depth below it;
A is the atmospheric pressure
6 is the plasticity index
w is the liquid limit.

(2) Values for the stiffness coefficient vcan be derived from DP tests using for example the following
equations, depending on the soil type:

a) closely graded sands (UI 3) above groundwater

v = 214 log Nlo+ 71 (DPL; range of validity: 4 5 N I O50)

~

v = 249 log NI0 + 161 (DPH; range of validity: 3 INl0 (10)

b) low plasticity clays of at least stiff consistency (0,75I/c s1,30) and above groundwater ( 4 is the
consistency index)

V= 4 + 30 (DPL; range of validity: 6 s No5 19)

V= 6 Nlo + 50 (DPH; range of validity: 3 s Nl04 13).

For additional information and examples see, Annex M

 Page 125
ENV 1997-3~1999

ANNEX F
(informative)

Weight Sounding Test (WST)

Table F.l: An example of derived values of angle of shearing resistance
p and drained Young's modulus of elasticity &, for naturally deposited
quartz and feldspar sands estimated from Weight Sounding resistance
In Sweden

Relative density Weight sounding Angle of shearing Drained Young's

resistance", resistance2' modulus3)',€,
halftums / 0,2 m ["I
very low 0 -10 -
29 32 < 10
low -
10 30 -
32 35 10 - 20
medium -
20 50 35 - 37 20 - 30
high 40-90 37 - 40 30 - 60
very high > 80 -
40 42 60 - 90
Page 126
ENV 1997-3:1999

ANNEX 6
(informative)

Field Vane Test (RIT)

(1) Examples of correction factors to obtain the undrained shear strength from the measured value are
shown in figures G.l and G.2, based on local experience and back calculations of slope failures.

(2) Correction factors based on figure G.1 may be used in soft normally consolidated clays.

(3) Correction factors based on figure G.2 may be used in overconsolidated clays.

(4) If more than one method correcting the measured value is used, the value of the correction factor
which will give the lowest value of the undrained shear strength should be applied.

(5) A greater correction factor than 1,2 should not be used without support from supplementary
investigations.

(6) In fissured clays a correction factor as low as 0,3can be necessary.

For additional information and examples, see Annex M

 Page 127
ENV 1997-3~1999

1.2

1.1

1.o

+
a 0.8

E
0
0.7
0

0.6

0.5

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200

Uquid I i d t W L

Figure G.l: An example of correction factors for Q,

based on liquid limit for normally consolidated clays

1.o

0.8

0.5

P I 1 1 1 1

Figure G.2: An example of correction factors for Q, based on plasticity index and effectlve
vertical stress q,'for overconsolidated clays
Page 128
ENV 1997-3:1999

ANNEX H
(informative)

Flat Dilatometer Test (DMT)

(1) The following is an example of correlations that may be used to determine the value of the one-
dimensional tangent modulus & = dddcfrom results of DMT tests:

in which & is estimated either on the basis of local experience or using the following relationships:

- if T 0,6;
~ M I then & = 0,14 + 2.36 log &MT

- if 4~ L 3,O; then & = O S + 2 log GMT

- if 0,6 < ~ M <T 3,O; then & = + (2.5 - &o) log &M,
-
in which & = 0,14 + 0,15 ( ~ M T 0,6)

- ifI(bMT>lO; then & = 0,32 + 2,18 log KDMT

if values of & < 0,85 are obtained in the above relationships, & is taken equal to 085.

For additional informationand examples, see Annex M.

 Page 129
ENV 1997-3~1999

ANNEX 1.1
(informative)

Plate Loading Test (PLT)

(1) This is an example of deriving the undrained shear strength G,;G, can be obtained by using the
following equation:
cu =
P" - y.z
N
C
where:

A is the ultimate contact pressure from the PLT results;

7 . A s the total stress (density times depth) at test level included when the test is conducted
in a borehole with a diameter smaller than three times the diameter or width of the plate;
4 is the bearing capacity factor, for circular plates is:
- Nc= 6 for PLT on the subsoil surface;
- /\G = 9 for PLT in boreholes of depths greater than four times the diameter or width
of the plate.

For additional information and examples, see Annex M

Page 130
ENV 1997-3:1999

ANNEX 1.2
(infomative)

Plate Loading Test (PLT)

(1) This is an example of deriving the plate settlement modulus &T (secant modulus).

(2) For loading tests made at the ground level or in an excavation where the bottom is at least five
times the plate diameter, the plate settlement modulus &T may be calculated from the general
equation:

where:

Ap is the selected range of applied contact pressure considered;

As is the change in total settlement for the corresponding change in the applied
contact pressure Ap including creep settlements;
b is the diameter of the plate;
is Poisson's ratio for the conditions of the test.

(3) Ifnot determined in other ways, is equal to 0,5 for undrained conditions of cohesive soils and 0,3
for non-cohesivesoils.

(4) If the test is made at the base of a borehole the value of &T may be calculated from the equation:

where:

C, is a depth correction factor; an example for suggested values is given in

figure 1.1.
 Page 131
ENV 1997-3~1999

1.o

h
v
cd
2 0.9
Q)
V =0.49
0
(d
w
k
a
(d
0
2 V =0.25

e a.y 0.8
r(

0)
a v =o.o
y.c
0
0)
3 E
I
Q)
8 0.7
L,
0
3 4

I
Q)
v1

2
0)
0.6
U2

0.5 I I I I
5 10 15 20
Z/b

Figure 1.1: Depth factor as function of plate diameter band depth rfor PLT results obtained
with a uniform circular load at the base of an unlined shaft
(after Burland 1969)

For additional informationand examples, see Annex M.

Page 132
ENV 1997-3:1999

ANNEX 1.3
(informative)

Plate Loading Test (PLT)

(1) This is an example of deriving the coefficient of subgrade reaction k,; ksmay -8 calculatedfrom the
equation:

ks = -
AS

where:

Ap is the selected range of applied contact pressure considered;

As is the change in settlement for the correspondingchange in applied contact
pressure )p including creep settlements.

(2) The dimensions of the loading plate should be stated when calculatingvalues of ks.
 Page 133
ENV 1997-311999

ANNEX 1.4
(informative)

Plate Loading Test (PLT)

(1) This is an example of deriving settlements directly. The settlements of the footing in sand may be
derived empirically according to the relations given in figure 1.3, if the ground beneath the footing to a
depth larger than two times the width is the same as the ground beneath the plate (see figure 1.2).

Test plate Footing

Figure 1.2: Influenced area beneath a test plate and a footing

Page 134
ENV 1997-3~1999

i 2 5 10 20 50 100 200

Width ratio -
b
bl

Figure 1.3: Graph for calculations of settlement based on plate loading tests

For additional information and examples, see Annex M

 Page 135
ENV 1997-311
999

ANNEX J
(informative)

Selection of the sampling method

Table J.l: Examples on sampling methods with respect to the sampling category in different
soils; the abbreviations of the sampling methods are listed in table J.2

Soil type I Suitability depends I Category A I Category B I Categoryc

on e.g.
Samplii I method
Clay PS-PU
-stiffness or strength OS-TNW-PE AS
-sensitivity OS-TNW-PU OS-TCW-PE
OS-TNW-PE') CS-ST
OS-TCW-PE') AS"
CS-DT
BS-TP
BS-FD
Silt -stiffness or strength PS-PU CS-DT AS
-sensitivitv OS-TNW-PU OS-TCW-PE CS-ST
I
-groundwkertable BS-TP I
Sand I -sizes of the I BS-TP OS-TCW-PE AS

I
particles
-density
I -groundwater table I
I
OS-TNW-PU"
OS-TCW-PE')
CS-DT CS-ST

Gravel I -size of the particles I BS-TP OS-TCW-PE ' AS

I
density . I cS-DT'
I -groundwatertable I
Peat I -state of decay I PS-PU CS-ST AS
OS-TNW-PU AS''
BS-TP
7 can be used only on very favourable conditions.

(2) The quality class of the sample for laboratory tests obtained by a certain sampling method also
depends very strongly on:

-details of the sampler;

-carefulness of the sampling procedure.
Page 136
ENV 1997-3:1999

Table 5.2: Sampling methods and their abbreviations used in table J.1

For additional information and examples, see Annex M

 Page 137
ENV 1997-3~1999

ANNEX K
(informative)

This is an example of simplified weathering classification in six grades.

Grade Degree of decomposition Diagnostic features In samples and cores

I Fresh rock No visible sign of rock material weathering;

perhaps slight discoloration on major discontinuity
surfaces.
II Slightly weathered rock Discoloration indicates weathering of rock material
and discontinuity surfaces.
Ill Moderately weathered rock Less than half of the rock material is decomposed
or disintegrated to a soil. Fresh or discoloured
rock is present either as a continuous framework
I I or as corestones.
IV - .weathered rock
Hiahlv I More than half of the rock material is decomposed
II I or disintegrated to a soil. Fresh or discoloured
rock is present either as a discontinuous
I framework or as corestones.
V Completely weathered rock I All rock material is decomposed andor
I I I disintegrated to soil. The original mass structure is
I I still largely intact.
VI Residual soil I All rock material is convertedto soil. The mass
structure and materialfabric are destroyed. There
is a large change in volume, but the soil has not
been significantly transported.

For additional informationand examples, see Annex M

Page 138
ENV 1997-3~999

ANNEX L
(informative)

Sample guidelines for groundwater measurements

L.l General
(1) The groundwater level and the pore water pressure in soil and rock have a great influence on many
geotechnicalquestions: slope stability, bearing capacity, settlements, drainage, erosion and frost
actions. Also the interpretation of other site investigation results are influenced by the groundwater
situation. Therefore groundwater measurements are important parts of site investigations and can also
be a part of a monitoringsystem in e.g. slopes, dams and groundwater lowering projects.
In some cases it has also been found that the groundwater quality can have an important role for the
design of different constructions e.g. durability of steel piles.

(2) Insufficient groundwater measurements may lead to misjudgement of the groundwater conditions
and the following consequences:

-an underestimateof the groundwater level or the permeability can give e.g. unstable constructionsor
increased settlements;
-an overestimate can e.g. give increased construction costs.

(3)There are many factors influencingthe groundwater situation: geology, stratigraphy, climate, the
atmospheric pressure, and also human activities. In figure L.l the natural fluctuations in different kinds
of ground are presented compared to the actual precipitation. Better correlations may sometimes be
obtained by comparing the groundwater fluctuations with the net precipitation or an averaging of the
precipitationfor a certain period.

(4) Normally, the groundwater pressure is not hydrostatic due to layers of various permeability and
groundwater flow which should be considered.

(5) In this annex some additional ,informationabout groundwater measurements is presented in order
to facilitate the fulfilment of the requirements in section 14.

(6) Guidance for the arrangements of some groundwater measuring systems with respect to different
aquifer systems can also be found in the examples mentioned in Annex M.

(7) When locating the piezometers or stand pipes for a certain project it is necessary to know the
purpose of the measurements and the soil layer sequence. In complex soil layers and hilly terrain a
number of measuring points can be required to model the groundwater conditions. This means that in
hilly terrain measuring stations should be located where major changes in slope inclination occur.

(8) In each measuring station the elevation for each piezometer should be chosen with respect to the
purpose of the measurementsand the permeabilityvariations of the ground.

(9) When the groundwater table should be observed in soils with a high and rather constant
permeability,only one pipe penetratingthe water table is normally required.
 Page 139
ENV 1997-3~999

Crdte I

I Precipitation I
P
3
40

1971 1 1072 1973 I 1974 I' 1975

Figure L.l: Groundwater fluctuations In different kinds of ground compared to the

precipitation

(10) In clays or in soils with a variable permeability with depth a number of (at least three) piezometers
are normally required to obtain a groundwater pressure profile.

(11) Installation of the groundwater pipes or piezometers may be performed by pushing or by

preboring.

(12) In soft clay it is normally sufficient to push the penetrometer carefully into the ground. However,
preboring to the groundwater table is required to keep the piezometer tip or filter water saturated
during installation. The remaining annular spacing between the pipe and the soil can be filled with e.g.
bentonite to prevent surface water inflow.

(13) When pushing the piezometer into clay, an excess pore water pressure up to about 15 times the
undrained shear strength of the clay can be generated. This excess pore pressure will dissipate during
the stabilizing period. The stabilizing period might be between 1 day and 20 days depending on the
permeability of the soil.

(14) In order to prevent the piezometer from overloading, the penetration rate should be kept
sufficiently low or a piezometer with sufficientlyhigh upper pressure limit shall be chosen, provided the
precision is satisfactory.
Page 140
ENV 1997-31999

(15) Drilling water additives should be avoided when preboring for groundwater pipes or piezometers.

(16) When installing in prebored holes a filter should be arranged around the filter tip. Above that filter
zone a seal should be made with a permeability lower than that of the surrounding ground.

L.2 Sample guidelines for presentation of groundwater measurements

(1) The presentation of the groundwater measurements can be made in different ways depending on
the purpose of the measurements and the presentationof other ground investigations. As the
groundwater conditions normally influence the interpretation of the total ground situation the results
should be presented in both plans and profiles. In addition it can be necessary to present long term
measurements and pore pressure profiles in special diagrams.

(2) In a plan the elevation of the groundwater table can be indicated at its actual position as follows:

o No. 16
GW +8.3082-03-15
GL +9.20

where:

0 is the location of the borehole;

No. 16 is the borehole No.;
GW +8.30 is groundwater level + 8.30;
82-03-15 is date of measurement;
GL +9.20 is elevation of ground surface.

(3)The results of groundwater observations in boreholes, pipes or piezometers can be presented in a

simplified way in sections according to figure L.2.
 Page 141
ENV 1997-3:1999

N2
v
5

+9,33
w 'Illh \I.,

cw+7,33

82-04-2 1 -- 82-05-27
CW+6,23

Figure L.2: Presentation of groundwater measurements

for a certain period in sections

Figure L.2 indicates a measurement made in a piezometer where the ground surface elevation was
+9,33 m and the centre of the filter was located at elevation +4,73. During the measuring period 1982-
04-21 to 1982-05-27the highest observed level was +7,33 m and the lowest +6,23 m. The borehole
No. 5 is indicated above.

(4) The results from a number of piezometers at different depths in one measuring station can be
compiled like the examples in figure L.3, where also a reference hydrostatic line is indicated. Figure a)
indicates the pore pressure measured at each level at three occasions. Figure b) indicates the
maximum and minimum pressures measured during the measuring period 1989-04-10 to 1989-10-12
and the mean values from each elevation.
Page 142
ENV 1997-3:1999

5 P 4 7 Pore preasure
b

------

II .1 891012)
9
a
G

Figure L.3: Presentation of results from a number of plezometers

in one measuring station designated No. 7

(5) In case of presentationof long term measurementsthe example in figure L.4 can be followed.
Alternatively the groundwater level can be expressed in depth below ground surface in m or as a pore
pressure in kPa.

Figure L.4 Presentation of long term measurements from three piezometers

In one measuring station
 Page 143
ENV 1997-3~1999

L.3 Sample guidelines for derivation of groundwater pressure

(1) The natural groundwater pressure is part of the hydrologicalcycle being influenced by the
precipitation, evapotranspiration, snow melting, surface run off etc.

(2) In order to establish a model of the groundwater situation for a building or a civil engineering project
site and the surrounding area, available hydrogeologicalinformationshould be compiled and
compared to the actual groundwater measurements. Such informationcould be:

-water level fluctuations;

-geohydrological maps;
-previous measurements in the surroundings;
-typical water levels of surface water or in wells;
-long term measurements in similar aquifers.

(3) The groundwater measurements for a project normally only contain a short series of
measurements. In these cases it is important to make a prediction of the expected groundwater
pressure for the actual design situation. Such a prediction can be based on the model mentioned
above and on long term measurements of the groundwater in a similar aquifer in the same region as
the project in combination with a short term measurement on the site.

(4) Using statistical methods it has been possible to predict the groundwater pressure within a few
decimeters based on 15 to 20 years measurements in a reference system and a 3 month measuring
period on the actual site, see figure L.5.

Reference pipe

Figure L.5: Left: the maximum and minimum groundwater level for a reference pipe; Right:
the actual measurements together with the predicted maxlmumlminimum
groundwater levels.

(5) A conceptual model can also simulate the groundwater fluctuations by a conceptual model.
Precipitationand air temperature can be used as input in the model. The groundwater response is
calibrated against long term measured groundwater fluctuations in the region.

For additional informationand examples, see Annex M.

Page 144
ENV 1997-3:1999

Annex M
(Informative)

Bibliography
The listing here after contains do uments that give addition I information and examples on the
following tests.

Cone penetration test

Bergdahl U., Ottosson E., Malmborg B.S. (1993)

Plattgrundltiggning(Spread foundations) (in Swedish)
AB Svensk ByggtjBnst, Stockholm, 282 pages.

Schmertmann J.H. (1970)

Static cone to compute settlement over sand
Jnl Soil Mech. Fdns Div., ASCE, 96, SM3, May, pp 1011-1043.

Schmertmann J.H., Hartman J.P., Brown P.R. (1978)

Improved strain influence factor diagrams
Jnl Geotech. Enging Div., ASCE, 104, GT8, Proc. Paper 7302, August, pp 1131-1135.

Sanglerat G. (1972)
The penetrometer and soil exploration
Elsevier Publishing Company, Amsterdam, 464 pages.

Pressiorneter test

Ministhre de I'Equipement du Logement et des Transports (1993)

Rbgles techniques de conception et de calcul des fountdations des ouvrages de G h i e civil, CCTG,
Fascicule no. 62, Titre V.

Standard Penetration Test

Canadian FoundationEngineering Manual (1992)

Third Edition, Canadian Geotechnical Society,
Technical Committee on Foundations, BiTech Publishers Ltd.

Skempton, A.W. (1986)

Standard penetrationtest procedures and the effects in sands of overburden pressure relative
density, particle size, ageing and overconsolidation
Geotechnique 36, No. 3, pp 425-447.

US Army Corps of Engineers (1993)

ASCE, Technical Engineering and design guides as adapted from the US A m y Corps of Engineers,
No. 7:
Bearing capacity of soils (1993), ASCE Press.

Burland, J.B. and Buhidge, M.C. (1985)

Settlements of foundations on sand and gravel
Proceedings Inst. Civil Engineers, U.K., Part 1,78, Dec. 1325-1381.
 Page 145
ENV 1997-3~1999

Dynamic Probing Test

DIN 4094; Beiblatt 1

Baugrund-Erkundungdurch Sondierungen; Anwendungshilfen, Erklarungen
(Dezember 1990) and supplement 1; Soil exploration by penetration testing; aids to application,
supplementary information).

DIN V 1054-100
Baugrund-Sicherheitsnachweiseim Erd- und Grundbau, Teil 100:
Berechnung nach dem Konzept mit Teilsicherheitsbeiweren
(Manuskript, Januar 1996)

DIN 4094-100; Soil veriiication of earthworks and foundation, Part 100:

Analysis in accordance with the partial safety factor concept).

DIN 4094; Beiblatt 1

Baugrund-Erkundungdurch Sondierungen; Anwendungshilfen, Erklarungen
(Dezember 1990) and supplement 1; Soil exploration by penetrationtesting; aids to application,
supplementary information).

Bergdahl U.,Ottosson E., Malrnborg B.S. (1993)

Plattgrundlaggning (Spread foundations) (in Swedish)
AB Svensk Byggtjanst, Stockholm, 282 pages.

Field Vane Test

Veiledning for utfprrelse ov vingeborr

(Recommendationsfor vane boring) (in Norwegian)
Melding No. 4, Utgitt 1982, Rev. 1,1989
Norwegian Geotechnical Institute.

Recommended standard for field shear test, 1993

Swedish Geotechnical Society
SGF Report 2:93E.

Flat Dllatometer Test

Marchetti, S. (1980)
In situ test by flat dilatometer
Joumal of the Geotechnical Engineering Division, Proc. A X E , Vol. 106, N. GT3, pp 299-321.

Plate Loading Test

British Standard BS 1377, Part 9 (1990)

In situ vertical settlement and strength tests.

Burland, J.B. (1969)

Reply to discussion
Proc. conf. on in situ investigationsof soils and rock
Inst. Civil Engineers, London, pp 62.

Bergdahl U.,Ottosson E., Malmborg B.S. (1993)

Plattgrundlaggning (Spread foundations) (in Swedish)
AB Svensk Byggtjilnst, Stockholm, 282 pages.
Page 146
ENV 1997-3:l999

Selection of sampling methods

Code of Practice for Site Investigations

British Standard InstitutionBS 5930:1981.

DIN 4021 (1990)

Aufschluss durch Schurfe und Bohrungen sowie Entnahme von Proben.

Sols: Reconnaissance et essais

PrcSlbvement des sols et des roches
Mdthologie et procedures
Normalisation Francaise XP, P 94-202,Ddcembre 1995.

Simplified wheathering classiflcationof rock

ISO/DIS 14689
Geotechnics in civil engineering
Identification and descriptionof rock.

Sample guidelines for groundwater measurements

DIN 4021 (1990)

Ground exploration by excavation, boring and sampling.
DD ENV
1997-3:2000
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