Cone Penetration Testing is a conceptually simple technology first developed in the Netherlands almost a century ago, but is still a critical component in the geotechnical toolkit. Now far more accurate and capable than early cones, modern equivalents are being deployed to solve some of the most pressing challenges, within the Dutch lowlands and far overseas.

In recent years a surge in research and development has transformed the traditional cone and equipped it with a range of new capabilities. New testing techniques can now be used to understand the infiltration of water into aquifers. In the Netherlands, these have been used to understand the stability of dikes and levees, with lessons learned that can be applied around the world to more efficiently build these structures. And insights from the marine sector now allow for more automated penetration testing, reducing risks associated with manual insertion of the rods used to push cones deep into the ground.

Guests

Edward Russell, Senior Principal Engineering Geologist, Mott MacDonald

Gerry Sinjorgo, Manager Transducer Workshop, Fugro

Barbara Snacken, Senior Consultant Hydrology, Fugro

David Tindall, Global Product Owner – Geotechnical Equipment, Fugro

Resources

For the much-referenced paper, The Causes and Mechanisms of Historical Dike Failures in the Netherlands, click here 

For a paper on the need to integrate flood and drought disaster reduction strategies, click here 

For a blog from TU Delft on the effect of rising sea levels on the Low Countries, click here

For ISO 22476-5:2023 Geotechnical investigation and testing, click here

For a video on the Deep Drive system, click here 

Partner

Fugro is the world’s leading Geo-data specialist, collecting and analysing comprehensive information about the Earth and the structures built upon it. Through integrated data acquisition, analysis and advice, Fugro unlocks insights from Geo-data to help clients design, build and operate their assets in a safe, sustainable and efficient manner.