Estimation of Pressuremeter Modulus and Limit Pressure in Weathered Granite Based on the SPT-N Value and Chemical Weathering Index: A Case Study in South Korea

Abstract

A pressuremeter test (PMT) is a representative and highly reliable in situ test for assessing the stress–strain behavior of weathered granite. Its application, however, is restricted by its cost and time requirements. Many researchers have also investigated the correlations between the SPT-N value and the pressuremeter modulus (Em) and limit pressure (PL) of soils, but they have mostly focused on sand, silt, and clay and have employed simple regression analysis. In this study, equations for Em and PL were derived for weathered granite through multiple nonlinear regression analyses using a chemical weathering index that quantitatively represents the degree of weathering. Nonlinear multiple regression analyses were conducted by combining the allometric models that produced the optimal correlations between Em, PL, energy corrected SPT-N (SPT-N60), and normalized VR (Vogt’ ratio) with vertical effective stress. The obtained equations for Em and PL had higher R2 values (0.76 and 0.46, respectively) compared with the simple regression equations reported in previous studies. Because local characteristics are important determinants of the engineering properties of geo-materials, the Em and PL equations proposed in this paper are intended for use in geotechnical surveys of weathered granite in South Korea.