Log stratigraphic analysis of dynamic penetrometric tests


Good morning, I am a master's student in geology. I am taking the course in geology applied to civil engineering and I wanted to ask you this question. The image on the book shows the sliding surface of a landslide and the comparison of three stratigraphic logs created by continuous dynamic penetrometric tests DP. I wanted to understand how the sliding surface is determined. Do we need to measure the three depths for the three logs in which the number of blows is lower and would the sliding surface pass through these three depths? (lower shear resistance). I have doubts, but from the image it seems so.

Soil Mechanics / Geotechnical Employment Geotechnical Investigations & In-Situ Testing

1 Answer

Votes: 0

Dr. Demba Jarju

1. Log Stratigraphic Analysis of Dynamic Penetrometric Tests

Dynamic penetrometric tests (e.g., DPL, DPM, or DPSH) give information about soil resistance to penetration, which can be correlated with stratigraphic layers. To create a log stratigraphic analysis:

  • Identify soil layers by interpreting variations in blow counts (N-values) with depth.

  • Correlate blow counts with soil type (dense sand, loose silt, clay, etc.) using local geotechnical correlations.

  • Relate results to sliding surfaces by comparing the weak layers in penetrometric logs with those shown in landslide profiles.

  • Cross-check with borehole data for accurate stratigraphy.