Dynamic cone penetration utilization in estimating the resilient modulus of sandy soils
摘要
The Resilient Modulus (RM) is a fundamental parameter in the mechanical characterization of soils and aggregates that constitute pavement structures. However, the conventional method for its determination, the repeated load triaxial test, is recognized as both costly and complex. Consequently, there has been a growing interest in developing empirical expressions to estimate the Resilient Modulus based on more accessible tests. One promising alternative is the use of the Dynamic Cone Penetration (DCP) test. In addition to its simplicity and low cost, the DCP test is a field method that provides data under actual soil conditions, accounting for the influence of moisture on mechanical behavior. This study presents a model based on results from DCP tests conducted on sandy soils in the Northeast region of Brazil. The proposed model employs an indirect approach, using DCP data to estimate regression parameters (k1, k2, and k3) originally derived from laboratory Resilient Modulus tests. This method has proven effective in accurately estimating the Resilient Modulus of these soils at varying stress levels.