In geotechnical engineering, it has proven difficult to obtain reliable soil
parameters for stiff clays. Laboratory testing results are often scattering due to the
fissures and slickensides in these soils. Alternatively, in situ techniques offer a
means to test the soils in place. This study focuses on in situ testing in Miocene
stiff clays using an advanced nine strain arm self-boring pressuremeter (SBPM).
This device was used to test the soils in both a self-boring and a simpler, non-boring
mode (pre-bored or PBPM tests). The Miocene stiff clay was unique in that was
sensitive and lacked of fissures and slickensides. The pressuremeter results could
be compared to a range of other tests previously performed at the site.
It is concluded that the SBPM provides accurate values of modulus and strength.
Minor soil disturbance was found to have little effect when it could be anticipated.
The simpler PBPM tests were not successful because of disturbance caused by
borehole preparation.
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