Penetration Test Research Articles

Probabilistic evaluation of earthquake-induced liquefaction using Bayesian network based on a side-by-side SPT–CPT database

In situ tests such as standard penetration test (SPT) and cone penetration test (CPT) are often conducted to evaluate the probability of earthquake-induced liquefaction. However, the models adopted have seldom attempted to utilize SPT and CPT data simultaneously. In this study, a side-by-side SPT–CPT database at historical earthquake sites is established; then, a Bayesian network model is constructed to predict the probability of soil liquefaction based on this database, with which the SPT and CPT data are utilized simultaneously. Next, comparative studies are undertaken to illustrate the superiority of the Bayesian network-based probabilistic soil liquefaction model developed over other models, in terms of six SPT- and CPT-based conventional liquefaction models in the literature and two Bayesian network-based models. It should be noted that the liquefaction sites with two in situ tests are scarce and side-by-side SPT–CPT data can be incomplete, which leads to challenges in applying the Bayesian network model developed. To address this problem, correlations between SPT and CPT data are analyzed, and these correlations are further included in the Bayesian network model; as a result, a modified Bayesian network model is reached. Finally, the influence of the proportion of missing data in the incomplete SPT–CPT data on the liquefaction prediction accuracy is discussed.

Thiol‐ene click chemistry for constructing transition layer to enhance the interface interaction between polyacrylonitrile fiber and styrene‐butadiene‐styrene modified asphalt

AbstractBased on the high chemical stability and excellent end‐group functionalization capability of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS), this study utilized thiol‐functionalized POSS (POSS‐SH) in a click chemistry reaction with styrene‐butadiene‐styrene triblock copolymer (SBS). The objective was to design a functional group forming a chemical bond with the polymer matrix, resulting in the preparation of thiol‐functionalized polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers chemically cross‐linked with POSS‐SH/PAN/SBS hybrid material. This hybrid material not only enhanced the compatibility between the components but also facilitated a connection between the fiber and SBS, thereby improving the mechanical properties of the modified asphalt. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and atomic force microscopy analyses confirmed the successful modification of POSS‐SH/PAN fibers. FESEM analysis of the modified asphalt verified that POSS‐SH/PAN fibers contributed to strengthening the interfacial performance between the fiber and asphalt. Cone penetration and dynamic shear rheometer tests indicated that, compared to SBS‐modified asphalt, PAN/SBS and POSS‐SH/PAN/SBS‐modified asphalt exhibited enhanced shear strength, deformation resistance, and viscoelastic properties. Additionally, at 46°C, the storage modulus (G′) of 1.5% POSS‐SH/PAN/SBS‐modified asphalt increased by 11% compared to 1.5% PAN/SBS asphalt, with increases of 13.75% and 10.8% in loss modulus (G″) and complex modulus (G*), respectively.

Understanding the feeding strategies of growing-finishing pigs: Exploring links with pig characteristics and behaviour

A large variation in feeding patterns between pigs and over time hampers the use of data from electronic feeding stations in the continuous monitoring of growing-finishing pig welfare. Individual feeding strategies (i.e. differences between pigs that are consistent within a pig across time) likely explain part of this variation, both at the daily level - based on feeding components intake, frequency and rate – and at the diurnal level - based on feeding components circadian rhythms and night feeding. It is, however, not known exactly which feeding strategies pigs display, nor which types of pigs display which strategies. This study aimed 1) to test which (combinations of) feeding components contribute to independent feeding strategies; and 2) to see whether pigs with different feeding strategies also differ in other physical and behavioural characteristics. To identify feeding strategies, we calculated the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) for each day-level feeding component, which reflects the proportion of variation explained by an individual pig effect (n=98 pigs). Subsequently, high ICC day-level components were correlated to diurnal-level components known to contain feeding strategies, to assess possible overlap. Pigs with different strategies were then characterised based on physical (n=52) and behavioural (home pen and play tests, n=22–27) variables at different ages, using (generalised) linear mixed models. Four dimensions of individual feeding strategies emerged: nibbling/meal eating, fast/slow eating, day/day-night eating and consistent/inconsistent eating from day to day, sustaining after correction for pig sex or body weight. All dimensions except day/day-night eating partially overlapped at the beginning of the growing-finishing phase, but became more distinct over time. Pigs with different feeding strategies also differed in their general activity, diurnal activity and possibly dominance rank. Feeding strategies did not relate to behaviours possibly indicative of more positive or negative emotional states of pigs. Our results demonstrate that pigs showed individual differences in their feeding behaviour that are consistent across time, along continua in four distinct dimensions. These differences went beyond differences in body weight and sex, and were related to other behavioural characteristics of pigs. The presence of feeding strategies suggests that the use of pig feeding behaviour data should be corrected for individual differences between pigs.

A numerical investigation on the effect of rotation on the cone penetration test

The cone penetration test (CPT) is one of the most popular in situ soil characterization tools. However, the test is often difficult to conduct in soils with high penetration resistance. To resolve the problem, a rotary CPT device has recently been adopted in practice by rotating the rod to increase the penetrability, particularly in deep dense sand. This study investigates the underlying mechanism of the rotation effects from a micromechanical perspective using models based on the discrete element method. With rotation, the cone penetration resistance ( qc) decreases by up to 50%, while the cone torque resistance ( tc) increases gradually. These results are also used to successfully assess existing theoretical solutions. The mechanical work required during penetration is observed to keep rising as the rotational velocity increases. Microscopic variables including particle displacement and velocity field show that rotation reduces the volume of disturbed soil during penetration and drives particles to rotate horizontally, while contact force chain and contact fabric indicate that rotation increases the number of radial and tangential contacts and the corresponding contact forces, forming a lateral stable structure around the shaft, which can reduce the force transmitted to the particles below the cone, thus decreasing the vertical penetration resistance.

Prediction of void ratio and shear wave velocity for soil in quaternary alluvium using cone penetration tests

Prediction of void ratio and shear wave velocity for soil in quaternary alluvium using cone penetration tests

Advancements in integrated robotic sensing: A European perspective.

Robotic Non-destructive Testing and Sensing stands at the forefront of technological innovation, offering capabilities in assessing structural integrity, safety, and material quality across diverse industries. This comprehensive review article provides a detailed exploration of the field, focusing on the substantial contributions of European researchers and institutions. The need for non-destructive testing has been a constant in industries that rely on structural integrity, including aerospace, manufacturing, energy, construction, and healthcare. Traditional testing methods, such as radiography, ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle testing, and dye penetrant testing, have been integral for quality control and safety assurance. However, the robotisation of such methods has marked a profound shift, enabling precise, fast, efficient, and repeatable testing while minimising human exposure to hazardous environments. European researchers and institutions have played an instrumental role in driving the evolution of integrated robotic sensing. The historical perspective of the field reveals the pioneering spirit of Europe, as collaborative initiatives led to the development of robotic platforms equipped with advanced sensors and testing techniques. A critical aspect of the European impact on robotic inspection applications lies in developing advanced sensors, innovative robotic platforms, novel robotic path-planning and control approaches and data collection and visualisation tools. These developments continue to influence the global landscape of robotic sensing. European researchers remain at the forefront of current trends and innovations as the field continues to evolve. This review article will delve into these recent advancements, highlighting Europe's pivotal role in pushing the boundaries of technology and application. The implications and applications of robotic sensing reverberate across multiple sectors worldwide. From inspecting critical aerospace components to ensuring the quality of manufactured goods, these technologies underpin safety and quality standards.

Cavity expansion-based interpretation of piezocone penetration test (CPTu) data in clays

A cavity expansion-based method is proposed in this paper to correlate the relevant findings with the piezocone penetration test (CPTu) data in clays. The rigorous and explicit solution for both spherical and cylindrical undrained cavity expansion is adopted based on a unified critical state constitutive model for clays and sands. The analogous model developed is comprehensively validated against two series of advanced numerical simulations and calibration chamber tests of the CPTu in fine-grained soils, along with bias analyses. The effects of the overconsolidation ratio and initial state parameter are extensively investigated for various clay types. Both theoretical and empirical correlations are then proposed for back-calculations of cone factor, undrained shear strength, overconsolidation ratio and initial state parameter of clays. Two case studies of CPTu tests are conducted in addition to examine correlations and contours of the in situ state parameter, demonstrating the applicability of the proposed theoretical approach for interpretation of the CPTu data.

Adaptive Utilization of Pressure Sensor Data in Excavation

Abstract The assessment of soil parameters in construction holds significant importance for refining building information modeling (BIM). Our study aimed to investigate the adaptive utilization of pressure sensor data as a dynamic and computationally efficient tool for this purpose. The results reveal a significant correlation between the pressure sensor readings of the hydraulic cylinder in the excavator bucket and the total load during static-dynamic penetration tests conducted in both homogeneous and heterogeneous soil. This correlation holds true across a 100% range of torque, with values recorded at 0.60 and 0.93, respectively. A key strength of this methodology lies in that it enables near real-time detection of verified boundary levels. This feature streamlines the adoption and development of BIM-based excavation methods that seamlessly align with current practical conditions. Keywords: Soil boundary, detection, hydraulic pressure, static-dynamic penetration test, correlation, model-based design, ground investigation.

Comparison of the Piezocone Penetrometer (CPTU) and Flat Dilatometer (DMT) Methods for Landslide Characterisation

The increasing occurrence of landslides worldwide causes many human casualties and huge socio-economic losses. Therefore, the fastest and most accurate characterisation of landslides is important. The objective of this study is to compare how well the flat dilatometer (DMT) test and the piezocone penetration (CPTU) test can find the depth of a sliding zone. Inclinometers were used to measure horizontal changes in the soil to ensure the depth of the sliding zone was correct. The coincidence of the results of in situ static probes, and the displacements of the inclinometers is a sure confirmation of the depth of the sliding zone. In the example of Bedekovčina and Kravarsko landslides, in situ static probes were used to obtain values of input parameters on the sliding zone for parametric sensitivity analysis of parameters. Sensitivity analysis was performed by plotting the relationship between the above parameters and the vertical effective stress σ′vo on the sliding zone. The sensitivity analysis of the parameters of 11 tested samples shows that for the parameters of the obtained DMT probe, a higher sensitivity of the parameters is obtained, closer to the values concerning the expected range, and a minor standard deviation. The parameter Kd obtained by dilatometer probing is the best indicator of the depth of the sliding zone. The literature value Kd = 1.8–2.0 on the sliding zone in this paper is extended to the range Kd = 1.8–2.5, and its detection sensitivity is influenced by over-consolidation in shallow soil layers. In general, the research results show that the dilatometer probe has an advantage over the piezocone penetrometer test for the needs of landslide characterisation.

Maximizing Penetration Testing Success with Effective Reconnaissance Techniques Using ChatGPT

Background/Objective: The study investigates the integration of ChatGPT, a generative pretrained transformer language model into the reconnaissance phase of penetration testing. The research aims to enhance the efficiency and depth of information gathering during critical security assessments offering potential improvements to traditional approaches.
 Research Problem: The research study addresses the challenge of optimizing the reconnaissance phase in penetration testing. It seeks to provide a solution by exploring the capabilities of ChatGPT in extracting valuable data, such as various aspects of the digital footprint or infrastructure of a system or an organization. The scope of the research relies in demonstrating how ChatGPT can contribute to the planning phase of penetration testing, guiding the selection of tactics, tools, and techniques for identifying and mitigating potential risks that could be used to assist with securing Internet accessible assets of a system or an organization.
 Methodology: The research adopts a case study methodology to assess the effectiveness of ChatGPT in reconnaissance. Tailored questions are formulated to extract specific information relevant to penetration testing. The study highlights the importance of prompt engineering emphasizing the need for carefully constructed questions to ensure usable results.
 Results: The research showcases the ability of ChatGPT to provide diverse and insightful reconnaissance information. The extracted data includes IP address ranges, domain names, vendor technologies, SSL/TLS ciphers, and network protocols. The information gathering improves efficiency of the reconnaissance phase aiding penetration testers in planning subsequent phases of the assessment.
 Discussion: The research study extends to the broader field of cybersecurity where artificial intelligence language models can play a valuable role in enhancing the success of reconnaissance in penetration testing. The research suggests that integrating ChatGPT into penetration testing can bring about positive changes in the efficiency and depth of information obtained during reconnaissance.
 Conclusion: The results of the study determine that incorporating ChatGPT in the reconnaissance phase significantly benefits penetration testers by offering valuable insights and streamlining subsequent assessment planning. The results affirm ChatGPT as a pivotal tool in maximizing success in penetration testing, contributing to ongoing advancements in cybersecurity practices.

Karakterisasi Tanah Vulkanik di Kabupaten Kediri, Jawa Timur, Indonesia Berdasarkan Uji CPT, SPT, dan PMT

Indonesia is a country surrounded by the Pacific Ring of Fire so that various areas are dominated by volcanic soil. Volcanic soils have unique and unusual characteristics, different structures and properties from soil in general, and are strongly influenced by geological processes. Volcanic soils were also found to be problematic and caused a lot of geotechnical damage. Research on volcanic soils from a geotechnical perspective in Indonesia is still very limited. This study aims to characterize volcanic materials in Kediri Regency, East Java, Indonesia, based on in situ testing using CPT (Cone Penetration Test), Standard Penetration Test (SPT), and Pressuremeter Test (PMT). CPT and SPT are the most common and frequently used field tests, while PMT is used to obtain horizontal stresses. Some data from the X-Ray Diffraction Analysis (XRD) test and corebox drilling results will also be used in this study. Field test results will display soil classification and parameters, which will then be combined, and empirical correlations will be obtained for site characterization as well as comparisons with other volcanic soil literature studies. The results showed that the volcanic soil in Kediri Regency consists of non-lateritic to lateritic soil. Based on the CPT and SPT correlations, it was found that the qc/N value was greater than in general soils for both cohesive and non-cohesive soils. The authors also found a relationship between parameters and interpretation of PMT data against NSPT for cohesive volcanic soils in the study area.

Coupled hydromechanical modelling of cone penetration in layered liquefiable soils

Soil layering modifies cone penetration measurements when the cone is close to layer boundaries. Transition zone and thin-layer effects appear, complicating interpretation. To help identify the mechanisms underlying transition and thin-layer effects, several series of realistic simulations of cone penetration in layered soils are presented. Cone penetration tests are simulated using fully coupled hydromechanical models solved with the particle finite-element method. A constitutive model capable of representing flow liquefaction is employed to explore the effect of embedded layers with different initial state parameter and/or hydraulic conductivity than the host soil. Sensing and development distances for tip resistance and excess pore pressure are examined, as well as the effect of layering on dissipation tests. It is shown how distortion of layer interfaces by the cone is captured, explaining several characteristics of pore pressure and dissipation records. It is also shown that looser soil states may be hidden in the tip resistance trace by simultaneous changes in soil hydraulic conductivity.

Physicochemical properties of carbonized grass (CG): Implications for soft clay improvement

In global environmental governance, effectively and sustainably treating soft clay remains a key challenge. The production of traditional soil stabilizers, like cement, not only consumes vast non-renewable resources but also poses issues related to high energy consumption and environmental burdens. Hence, there is an urgent need to identify sustainable alternatives. This study introduces carbonized grass (CG) prepared from waste cutting grass as a sustainable material, experiments on soft clay and research on its physical and chemical properties, and adds wood charcoal (WC) and carbonized cow dung compost (CC) as controls. The study assesses the impact of carbonization temperature (500–1000 °C) on the water absorption properties of WC, CC, and CG. Using CG produced by a homemade dry distillation gasifier (SDDG) as raw material, it is added directly or together with calcined oyster shell waste (COS) into the soft clay, and a cone penetration test is conducted. The impact of different initial moisture contents (30%, 50% and 70%) of soft clay and the blending amounts of CG and CG-COS on the strength of the samples was studied, and an evaluation formula was proposed. Test results showed that CG exhibited a significant advantage in stabilizing high-moisture clay compared to CC and WC. After 28 days, the incorporation of CG significantly reduces the amount of COS (about 40%). Employing Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), the physical and chemical properties of the samples were analyzed. The analysis confirmed CG's unique honeycomb structure, acting as nucleation sites between particles. Additionally, its strong water absorbency aided in shortening the distance between particles, promoting the bonding of hydrated calcium silicate (C-S-H) with soil particles, leading to an improvement in sample strength. The results showed that improving soft clay with CG-COS significantly reduces the use of traditional stabilizers while leading to a substantial increase in soil strength. Additionally, this approach contributes to a noteworthy reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, recycling cutting grass for CG preparation as a substitute for conventional soil stabilizers emerges as a green and viable method.

Applicability of soil‐type index for shear wave velocity‐based liquefaction assessment

AbstractThe current simplified liquefaction assessment method based on the shear‐wave velocity, Vs has uncertainties about how the fine contents change the Vs‐based liquefaction resistance. According to the simplified method, for a given Vs, the cyclic resistance ratio (CRR) increases with an increase in fine contents. However, field investigations recently revealed that for various silty sands, the correlation between CRR and Vs is soil‐type index dependent and not specific for all sand‐silt mixtures with the same fine contents. Therefore, a detailed experimental research program is performed in this study to clarify the effect of the soil‐type index on the shear wave velocity and CRR correlation. In the first part of the present study, the cyclic resistance of sand mixed with non‐plastic (NP) fines (dry weight of 0%, 5%, 15%, and 35%) was investigated using cyclic direct simple shear (CDSS) tests. Seismic cone penetration (SCPT) tests were performed inside the large‐scale box to facilitate normalized cone penetration resistance (qc1N) and shear wave velocity measurements on the soils used in the CDSS tests. A new correlation was proposed between the qc1N and normalized shear wave velocity (Vs1) using the soil‐type index Ic representing the behavior of soil. Then, CRR‐Vs1 correlation was obtained experimentally for four distinct ranges of soil‐type index. Finally, the results of this study and the proposed CRR‐Vs1 trends in other investigations were used to discuss the soil‐type dependent Vs‐based liquefaction susceptibility zones.

Investigation on the bearing capacity evolution of building pile foundation during permafrost degradation

The warming and melting of permafrost due to climate warming pose a considerable threat to the integrity of the Pan Arctic building, thus jeopardizing sustainable development. The increase in ambient temperature in permafrost areas will cause deterioration in the bearing capacity of building pile foundations. Considering the continuous deepening of the active layer (za), the present paper used small-scale physical modeling to investigate the potential variation of bearing capacity and load transfer mechanism of pile foundations under the scenario of continuous degradation of permafrost. The ultimate bearing capacity of a single pile and the undrained shear strength of the ground under different za are estimated by cone penetration tests. In the static load test of single piles, the axial load-settlement, axial force of pile shaft, and earth pressure at the pile tip are measured. The results show that the rise in ground temperature and the deepening of the za shorten the elastic and elastic-plastic stages of the load-displacement curve, resulting in a gradual decline in the bearing capacity of a single pile. The pile-soil interface temperature is always higher than the adjacent ground temperature at the same depth. Adfreezing force of the pile-soil interface decreases due to the increase in ground temperature and water content. With the deepening of za, the peak point of the shaft resistance decreases from −30 cm to −60 cm under the ultimate state. Meanwhile, with more axial load transfer along the pile shaft to the pile tip, the share ratio of pile tip resistance to ultimate stress gradually increases. In addition, the temperature rise of frozen soil at the pile tip accelerates the settling rate of the pile, which eventually causes the pile foundation failure.

Hardening of network segmentation using automated referential penetration testing

We study the problem of hardening the security of existing networks. Dynamic and static analysis are two main approaches that are used to address this problem. Dynamic analysis is performed using penetration testing. Penetration testing (short pentesting) simulates attacks on an existing and possibly dynamic network to identify its vulnerabilities without causing it any harm. Static analysis analyzes the access control policies of both network resources and firewalls without executing them. Although, dynamic and static analysis are extremely useful approaches, they also have several drawbacks. For instance, they do not identify vulnerabilities resulting from weak network segmentation, improper implementation of the Defence in Depth strategy, and an increased attack surface for a given resource or firewall.In this paper, we propose a novel approach termed as the referential penetration testing (RPT) approach to evaluate the security of networks. The RPT approach evaluates the network and checks for segmentation flaws, while checking for other traditional vulnerabilities. We then propose a novel framework, called the RPT framework, that incorporates the RPT approach to identify vulnerabilities in networks. The proposed framework is an application of the Digital Twin Technology in network security. We compare RPT to the network vulnerabilities assessment tools Nessus, OpenVAS, Qualys, Illumio, Tufin, and AlgoSec. The comparison reveals that RPT is different from the other tools on all the considered technical aspects, which indicates that it brings a novel approach to assess network segmentation. It has a very limited focus compared to the others, which makes it suitable for being used in combination with anyone of them to further enhance the robustness of the segmentation. Finally, we implement this framework in the Software Defined Network (SDN) environment and discuss its usefulness.

Stereomicroscopic evaluation of sealing ability of four different root canal sealers: an in-vitro study

Aim To compare and evaluate the sealing ability of four different commercially available sealers to provide seal against the dye penetration test using a stereomicroscope-an in-vitro study.Material/Method 80 extracted single rooted mandibular premolar with single canal were used in this study. The samples were divided in 4 groups (20 in each) based on sealer. Group I (Diaproseal), Group II (apexit Plus), Group III (MTA Fillapex) and Group IV (Bio-C). The samples were analyzed using a stereomicroscope and data analysis was done with one-way Anova And post hoc Tukey’s test.Result The mean dye penetration score was 1.2400 ± 0.778 mm for Group I. 2.6000 ± 0.897 mm for Group II, 4.2000 ± 0.923 mm for Group III and 4.225 ± 2.055 mm for Group IV. One-way Anova analysis shows that intergroup comparison was statistically significant between the four groups. The post hoc Tukey’s test reveals that the difference was statistically non-significant between group III and group IV.Conclusion It was concluded that between the four groups the Group I (Diaproseal) showed the least dye penetration followed by Group II (Apexit Pus), Group III (MTA Fillapex) and then Group IV (Bio-C), where there was no significant difference between the Group III (MTA Fillapex) and Group IV (Bio-C).

Field implementation to resist coastal erosion of sandy slope by eco-friendly methods

Coastal erosion is a global issue that not only compresses land space but also undermines offshore structures. In this study, two eco-friendly technologies (microbially and enzyme induced calcium carbonate precipitation) were implemented at a sandy slope field site to enhance erosion resistance. Improvement of the treated sandy slope against erosion was assessed by penetration resistance, calcium carbonate content, cone penetration testing (CPT) results, terrain data and microscopic morphology. Results indicated that the penetration resistance and calcium carbonate content of treated slopes increased first and then decreased over time because of the gradual formation of calcium carbonate and the erosion caused by the marine environment. Calcium carbonate content and penetration resistance presents an obvious linear relationship. The existence of the superficial cemented crust layer increased the water retention capacity of the sand in the atmosphere region. The calcium carbonate content and CPT results in the tidal region shows the characteristics of layered cement. The spherical calcium carbonate cementation improves the roughness and integrity of the terrain, enhances the particle size of the sand, gradually changing the topography from pre-treatment dynamic erosion to depositional patterns. The treated slope still maintained a certain penetration resistance and calcium carbonate content for 60 days until being eroded by the wind in the atmosphere region. However, the effective protection duration in the tidal zone which encounters wind, wave, tide and reflow was about 24 days, and would thus need to be reinforced periodically over time to obtain long-term protection.

Effects of induction furnace slag on the durability properties of concrete

In this study, three major properties of concrete were compared, viz: water absorption, compressive strength and chloride ion penetration. The percentage amounts of Induction furnace slag (IFS) varied in concrete to replace cement were 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55% and 60%. These specimens were made to undergo curing for 7, 14, 28, 56 and 90 days following which the aforementioned tests took place. The results of the three tests (i.e. compressive strength test, water absorption test and chloride ion penetration test) showed an optimal performance of concrete at 25% IFS replacement. Some of the specimens containing varying amounts of slag (i.e. 0%, 25% and 45%) were subjected to microstructural and phase identification tests in other to establish their distinguishing properties. These tests include Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). Meanwhile the IFS was also examined for its composition through X-ray Fluorescence (XRF). Predictive models were generated from all the results obtained. The models developed can predict the compressive strength of concrete (Y) if information on the percentage of IFS replaced (X1), the depth of chloride ion penetration into concrete (X2) and the amount of void left in concrete after water is absorbed (X3) are all known. There existed a high correlation; strong relationship between compressive strength and the depth of chloride ion penetration; and between compressive strength and the percentage volume of void.

Sub-Surface Soil Characterization Using Image Analysis: Material Recognition Using the Grey Level Co-Occurrence Matrix Applied to a Video-CPT-Cone

The geotechnical characterization of the subsurface is a key requirement for most soil investigations, incl. those for reclaiming landfills and waste dumps associated with mining operations. New sensor technology, combined with intelligent analysis algorithms, allow for a faster and less expensive acquisition of the necessary information without loss of data quality. The use of advanced technologies to support and back up common site investigation techniques, such as cone penetration testing (CPT), can enhance the underground characterization process. This study aims to investigate the possibilities of image analysis for material recognition to advance the geotechnical characterization process. The grey level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) image processing technique is used in a wide range of study fields to estimate textures, patterns and structure anomalies. This method was adjusted and applied to process the video recorded during a CPT sounding, in order to distinguish soil types by its changing surface characteristics. From the results of the video processing, it is evident that the GLCM technique can identify transitions in soil types that were captured in the video recording. This enables the prospect of image analysis not just for soil investigations, but also for monitoring of the conveyor belt in the mining field, to allow for efficient preliminary decision making, material documentation and quality control by providing information in a cost effective and efficient manner.