Soil Compaction Analysis with a Digital Cone Penetrometer
This case study examines the application of a digital cone penetrometer (DCP) to measure and model soil compaction. The project demonstrates how geotechnical field data can be processed and visualized using RockWorks 2002 to analyze subsurface conditions. The example presented focuses on clandestine grave site investigation, illustrating how soil resistance measurements can reveal disturbance patterns below ground surface.
File Details
- File Name: conepenetrometer.html
- Author: Alex Diamond
- Organization: RockWare, Inc.
- Date Created: January 13, 2004
- Last Modified: January 13, 2004
- Software and Platform Information
- Supporting GIS: Independent / Not Applicable
- Operating System Support: Windows
- Software Used: RockWorks 2002
- Study Focus: Soil Compaction Modeling
A digital cone penetrometer measures soil resistance by recording the force required to drive a cone into the ground. Variations in resistance provide quantitative indicators of compaction and potential subsurface anomalies. These measurements are particularly useful in environmental, engineering, and forensic investigations where identifying disturbed soils is critical.
In this case study, DCP readings were imported into RockWorks 2002 for modeling and visualization. The software enabled spatial interpolation and three-dimensional representation of compaction data, helping to distinguish between undisturbed soil layers and areas that had been altered.
Application to Clandestine Grave Site Analysis
The example highlights forensic use of soil compaction modeling. When soil is excavated and refilled, its structure and density typically differ from surrounding undisturbed ground. By analyzing cone penetration resistance data, investigators can identify irregular compaction zones that may indicate prior excavation activity.
Through modeling tools within RockWorks 2002, compaction values were visualized in cross-sections and 3D views. These outputs provided clearer interpretation of subsurface conditions, supporting investigative analysis without reliance solely on surface observation.
Significance
This study demonstrates how digital field instrumentation combined with geospatial modeling software enhances subsurface analysis. The integration of DCP measurements and RockWorks 2002 visualization tools provides a practical method for detecting soil disturbance patterns in engineering and forensic contexts.
By translating raw compaction data into structured spatial models, the workflow illustrates the broader value of geotechnical GIS integration in interpreting complex subsurface environments.
