What are the best methods and tools for measuring dynamic soil properties?

2 Laboratory Tests

Laboratory tests can provide accurate and detailed data on soil properties and behavior under different loading scenarios. To perform these tests, soil samples are extracted from the site and subjected to controlled dynamic loads or waves. The Resonant Column Test (RCT) applies a harmonic load to induce a resonant frequency, which is then measured to determine the soil shear modulus, damping, and strain level. The Cyclic Triaxial Test (CTT) encloses the sample in a rubber membrane and applies a confining pressure and a cyclic axial load, measuring the axial strain and pore pressure. The Cyclic Simple Shear Test (CSST) places a rectangular sample between two horizontal plates, applying a normal load and a cyclic shear load to measure the shear strain and pore pressure, providing information on the soil stiffness, strength, damping, and liquefaction potential.

3 Numerical Tools

Numerical tools are software applications or codes that use mathematical models and algorithms to simulate and analyze the dynamic behavior of soil and soil-structure interaction. These tools can provide flexible and comprehensive data on the soil properties and response under various loading conditions and configurations. Three of the most common numerical tools for measuring dynamic soil properties are the Finite Element Method (FEM), Finite Difference Method (FDM), and Discrete Element Method (DEM). FEM divides the soil domain into small elements, FDM discretizes the soil domain into grid points, and DEM treats the soil as a collection of discrete particles. Each tool has its own advantages, such as FEM's ability to account for nonlinear, anisotropic, and heterogeneous nature of soil or FDM's ability to handle large deformations and wave propagation problems. Furthermore, these methods can model complex geometries, boundary conditions, particle breakage, and rearrangement.

4 Here’s what else to consider

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