Glossary
Shallow foundations

Static penetrometer; cone penetrometer test (CPT)

In-situ probing consists of driving a conical point into the ground at a constant speed (approx. 2 cm/s) and measuring the force applied. This force can be related, among other things, to the soil's bearing capacity. Lateral friction force is also measured via a ring at the rear of the cone. This additional data provides information on the type of soil and its potential for liquefaction in the event of an earthquake. This tool is widely used throughout the world.

Pressiometer: pressiometer

In-situ test carried out in a borehole, consisting of pressurizing a cylindrical probe that expands and compresses the borehole walls until it ruptures. A study of the pressures and volumes injected yields a soil modulus (which can be linked to other elastic moduli), a creep pressure...