Advance in the penetrometer test formulation to estimate allowable pressure in granular soils

摘要

In this paper, we present a modification of the existing mathematical formulation used to obtain the allowable bearing pressure from dynamic penetration tests in order to extend its applicability to the design of shallow foundations. The conventional relationships adopted to obtain the allowable bearing pressure from penetrometer tests have a discontinuous gradient, and they are limited to a depth less than the footing width. The aim of this work was to find a relationship that permits the estimation of this pressure in cohesionless soils, from the results of dynamic probing super heavy tests, through a single non-piecewise and continuous relationship that remains valid up to depths several times the footing width. This equation was applied as part of the geomechanical characterization survey undertaken for the construction of an elevated helipad in the centre of the Iberian Peninsula. The survey results were considered satisfactory, and the construction was completed without structural problems.