Application of Wave Methods for Determining Comprehensive Soil Model Parameters

Abstract

Comprehensive hardening soil models are widely used in geotechnical design. Some of the stiffness parameters of such models, characterizing the behavior under very small and small strains, should be determined by wave (dynamic) methods. These techniques can be implemented both in the laboratory and in the field scale. Each of the methods has its advantages and disadvantages, which directly affect the quality of the initial data obtained for calculations and the results of geotechnical forecasts and the reliability of construction facilities. The article provides an overview of wave methods applicable for stiffness parameters of complex soil models estimation. The scope of application of test methods is given depending on the geotechnical task, the defined parameters and engineering-geological conditions. The comparison of the test results by field and laboratory methods at the experimental site is given. It is shown that the results obtained by field methods require additional reference to the initial stress state in the soil mass before their application as input parameters of comprehensive soil models. Recommendations are given for correcting the initial soil shear modulus based on the integration of laboratory and field wave methods.