THE INTERPRETATION OF SELF-BORING PRESSUREMETER TESTS TO PRODUCE DESIGN PARAMETERS

This article discusses the factors which affect the analysis and interpretation of the self-boring pressuremeter (SBP) test. The process of self-boring imposes a shear stress between the soil and the probe which changes the in situ stress conditions. The fundamental parameters for the design of the test are presented. Special attention is given to the assessment of horizontal stress, as it is often assumed that this is unaffected by the installation of the SBP into clays. Evidence is provided from various clay and sand sites to show that this is not always so. Other parameters discussed are: a) the deformation modulus; b) undrained shear strength; and c) the angle of friction. For the covering abstract see IRRD 859983.