Requirements for Geotechnical Testing

Laboratory tests can be classified into two groups (1) shipboard testing including Torvane, laboratory miniature vane shear (ASTM D4648), pocket penetrometer, and fall cone penetrometer and (2) shore-based tests, which includes the above as well as triaxial tests (ASTM D4767) direct simple shear, dynamic, and cyclic tests, consolidation tests (ASTM D4186, ASTM D2435) and the usual array of index property tests, and special tests appropriate 

Schematic of core lab and core flow on RV JOIDES Resolution. 

Some objectives are governed by current design practice nevertheless, the testing program should accomplish the following  

Soil behavior under levels of stress and strain that might be expected in the field or determination of basic strength parameters 

Soil compressibility characteristics under sustained loading 

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