Large Deformation Finite Element Analysis of Static Cone Penetration Test

Present work includes simulation of field static cone penetration test (SCPT) using three dimensional elastoplastic finite element analysis. The coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian (CEL) technique available in finite element software Abaqus/Explicit is used to simulate the experimental SCPT. The soil stress–strain response has been simulated using the Mohr–Coulomb constitutive model. The cone is modeled as a rigid body in the simulations. The results of CEL simulations have been compared with the laboratory results, field test results and numerical results in an attempt to understand the capability of CEL technique in simulating SCPT and in characterizing soil behavior numerically through large deformation finite element procedure. It is observed that CEL can successfully simulate cone penetration tests which in turn, facilitates in characterizing soil stress–strain response.