Standard Guide for Using the Electronic Cone Penetrometer for Environmental Site Characterization

1.1 The electronic cone penetrometer test often is used to determine subsurface stratigraphy for geotechnical and environmental site characterization purposes (1). The geotechnical application of the electronic cone penetrometer test is discussed in detail in Test Method D 5778, however, the use of the electronic cone penetrometer test in environmental site characterization applications involves further considerations that are not discussed.

1.2 The purpose of this test method is to discuss aspects of the electronic cone penetrometer test that need to be considered when performing tests for environmental site characterization purposes.

1.3 The electronic cone penetrometer test for environmental site characterization projects often requires steam cleaning the push rods and grouting the hole. There are numerous ways of cleaning and grouting depending on the scope of the project, local regulations, and corporate preferences. It is beyond the scope of this test method to discuss all of these methods in detail. A detailed explanation of grouting procedures is discussed in Guide D 6001.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This test method is applicable only at sites where chemical (organic and inorganic) wastes are a concern and is not intended for use at radioactive or mixed (chemical and radioactive) waste sites.

1.6 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. Within the text, the inch-pound units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system are not equivalents, therefore, each system must be used independently of the other.