Physical modeling utilizing a centrifuge is often attempted in order to investigate short-term stability problems of soft clay deposits whose undrained shear strength generally varies with depth. Since accurate evaluation of the strength profile in model beds is essential for such studies, a cone penetration test (CPT) technique in the centrifuge has been developed to obtain geotechnical information continuously with depth. A series of CPTs in homogeneous clay beds was conducted in order to establish the correlation between cone resistance qc and undrained shear strength cu. This empirical relationship can take account of the influences of penetration rate, stress level and the error associated with the stress acting on the rear of the cone tip. In the end, this CPT technique in the centrifuge has proved itself to be useful in evaluating the undrained shear strength profile in non-homogeneous clay beds.
