Development of empirical CPTu-Vs correlations for post-glacial sediments in Southern Quebec, Canada, in consideration of soil type and geological setting

Abstract

The correlation of shear wave velocity (Vs) with piezocone penetration test (CPTu) parameters is investigated in post-glacial sediments along the St. Lawrence and Saguenay rivers, Southern Quebec, Canada. The compiled database includes 991 CPTu-Vs measurements at 40 sites. The objectives are to examine the applicability of existing CPTu-Vs correlations, identify the main CPTu parameters and develop specific CPTu-Vs correlations that account for the effects of soil type (sandy or clayey) and geological setting (Champlain or Laflamme sea sediments). Results reveal that the application of existing correlations is biased in varying degrees, denoting a need for site-specific correlations for the study area. Multivariate regression analyses confirm the importance of cone tip resistance and depth as Vs predictors assisted by normalised pore pressure and soil behaviour type index. Consideration of soil type and geological setting helps reduce uncertainties in CPTu-Vs correlations for fine-grained soils.