scope:

This document deals with field testing using the flexible dilatometer test as part of geotechnical investigation and testing according to EN 1997-1 and EN 1997-2.
The present document describes four procedures for conducting a test with the flexible dilatometer in ground stiff enough not to be adversely affected by the drilling operation. Testing can be conducted either on land or off-shore.
The test with the flexible dilatometer is performed by the expanding of a flexible dilatometer membrane placed in the ground (see Figure 1). The pressure applied to, and the associated expansion of the probe are measured and recorded so as to obtain a stress-displacement relationship for the ground as tested. The results of dilatometer tests may be used for deformation calculations provided that the range of stresses applied in the test are representative of the stresses to be applied by the proposed structure. Appropriate attention shall also be paid to local experience.