Comparative CPT-based classification of Cooper Marl

The Cooper Marl is a fine-grained soil which displays a high degree of cementation. Due to its calcareous nature, a high mechanical resistance and high porewater pressure response are measured during cone penetration testing. If soil classification is performed using CPT and CPTU (piezocone) testing, results are not uniequivocal. The paper provides a comparative analysis of CPT-based classification of Cooper Marl using two available systems. Existing similarities and differences in classification are addressed and the pos-sible contributing factors and causes are discussed.