The use of the Mackintosh Probe for site investigation in soft soils

Abstract

Dynamic probing can have an important role in geotechnical site investigation. The Mackintosh Probe is a lightweight and portable penetrometer. It is a considerably faster and cheaper tool than boring equipment especially when the depth of exploration is moderate and the soils under investigation are soft or loose. This paper presents the capabilities of the Mackintosh Probe for the investigation of soft deposits. A methodology for the use of the Mackintosh Probe is discussed and the repeatability of test results is studied. Correlations are developed between Mackintosh Probe results and those of the Standard Penetration Test (SPT), as well as, undrained shear strength ( c u ). The study concludes that the application of the Mackintosh Probe for site investigation in soft deposits is appropriate and cost effective.