Correlations Between The Pressuremeter And The Rigid Dilatometer Parameters In Soils
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The Dilatometer Fondasol Test (DFT) is a unidirectional loading test realized in a borehole and providing an in-situ stress-strain curve. Two rigid shells are spread in the soil at a constant displacement rate by several small hydraulic jacks. This test offers significant advantages over the Ménard Pressuremeter Test (PMT) as it simplifies the testing procedure by removing the need of estimating the limit pressure and it increases safety by avoiding the use of compressed gas. First results using this test in soft soils were obtained by Besson (2022) who also provided methods to compute from the stress-strain curve both a pseudo-elastic modulus and a limit stress. However, additional data were required to establish reliable correlations between the dilatometer parameters and the pressuremeter parameters. This communication introduces new results from multiple sites in France and compiles all data gathered to date. The method followed is straightforward: for each site, pressuremeter and dilatometer boreholes are carried out in pairs using the same drilling methods. DFT and PMT are then performed at the same depths and at the same duration. For the computation of moduli and limit stresses, semi-automatic methods are employed to prevent subjective interpretations. Correlations are proposed between the dilatometer modulus and the pressuremeter modulus as well as between the dilatometer limit stress and the pressuremeter limit pressure. The established correlations, along with their limitations, are interpreted. This study paves the way for a broader acceptance of the DFT in geotechnical engineering, positioning it as a viable alternative to the PMT. The correlations provided would facilitate the transition for professionals accustomed to pressuremeter techniques.