ABSTRACT
The basic configuration of the cone penetrometer test (CPT) has remained constant for half a century since the electric piezocone became widespread in the 1970s and the dimensions and test protocols were standardized soon after. The results of a conventional CPT performed today might be indistinguishable from a test conducted at the same location in 1972, aside from improved data logging and presentation. This discussion reflects on advances in CPT and other penetrometer equipment presented at this conference and in the recent literature, and presents discussion points to be considered during the event. Two general observations emerge: (i) advances in instrumentation, sensing and mechanical engineering have created a vast range of variations on the conventional CPT, providing excitement for technologists, researchers and a small subset of users; (ii) the conventional CPT is heavily standardized, commoditized and automated, and is progressively replacing the SPT in onshore practice. The result is a dispersion of practice: the majority of civil engineers base their ground characterization on a durable 1970s technology, updated with automation and improved data quality, while a minority are enjoying exploration of non-standard innovations – with mixed levels of impact. This conference provides a chance for us to (i) reflect where our activities sit in this spectrum, (ii) enjoy learning about recent advances, and (iii) debate how we will characterize the ground in another 50 years.
