Shear wave velocity measurement in centrifuge using bender elements

Abstract

Measuring soil properties during a centrifuge flight is important for the interpretation and analysis of experimental data. In recent years, progress has been made in developing devices for in-flight measurement. This paper describes the application of the bender element technique in the measurement of shear wave velocities during the flight, spin-up and spin-down of a centrifuge. Three model tests were conducted on a dry sand deposit. The experimental setup, test procedures, and test results are described in detail. The shear wave velocities in horizontal and inclined planes are measured, which are used to calculate the shear moduli in the corresponding shear planes. Test results have good repeatability and agree well with both the results of resonant column tests and calculations conducted with a commonly used empirical equation. This study shows that the bender element technique has a great potential as a reliable and inexpensive method to measure an important soil property during the flight of a centrifuge.