ABSTRACT

Geotechnical investigations are generally based on an association of in-situ testing and high quality sampling. Continuous penetrometer tests are conducted with seabed modules down to 20-40 m penetration. The Cone Penetration Test (CPTU) technique is the most extensively used whereas full flow penetrometers (T-bar and Ball probe) have been introduced and are recognized to offer great potential. Penetrometer measurements allow continuous undrained shear strength profiling and identification of any heterogeneity which could alter the capacity of the foundation or compromise its installation. In addition to continuous measurements, discrete measurements of in-situ undrained shear strength can be carried out using the in-situ vane (VST).