Interpretation of Cone Factor in Undrained Soils via Full-Penetration Finite-Element Analysis

The cone penetration test is widely used to interpret the undrained shear strength of soil. The interpretation methods are commonly based on bearing capacity, cavity expansion, or strain-path methods. In this paper, the cone penetration test is analyzed using the large deformation FEM and contact mechanics. The full penetration process from the ground surface is modeled. The three-parameter Tresca model is used to represent the undrained soil behavior in a total stress analysis, to derive a cone factor equation for interpretation of the undrained shear strength. This equation is then compared with existing solutions in the literature as well as experimental data. The complexities that arise in more sophisticated soil models are elaborated in an effective stress analysis using the Modified Cam Clay model.