Layered elastic model for analysis of Cone Penetration Testing

A layered elastic model is adopted in the paper for the analysis of soil layering effects on the results of Cone Penetration Testing (CPT). Analytical solutions associated with the layered elastic CPT model and obtained via numerically integrating the fundamental singular solution for layered elastic solids due to the action of a body force concentrated on a circular ring. The soil layering effects on the CPT tip and friction resistance are examined in detail using the layered elastic CPT model. These examinations include parametric studies, influence of soil compressibility, comparisons with theoretical results given in the literature, verification with experimental data and simulation of field trial results. The examinations lead to the conclusions that the layered elastic CPT model can be used to analyse soil layering effects on CPT results and to estimate relative shear modulus strength of soil layers.