What does the abbreviation SPT stand for in soil testing?

The abbreviation SPT stands for Standard Penetration Test, a widely used method in geotechnical engineering to assess the properties of soil. This test involves driving a standard split-barrel sampler into the soil at the bottom of a borehole using a dropped weight. The number of blows required to drive the sampler a specific distance provides valuable data on the soil's density, strength, and other characteristics.

The use of the term “standard” indicates that the test follows specific procedures and protocols, allowing for consistent and comparable results across different locations and projects. This is critical for engineers and contractors when evaluating soil conditions for foundations, excavation, and other earthworks, where understanding the soil's behavior under load is essential for making informed design decisions.

In contrast, the other options are either not commonly used terms in soil testing or do not reflect the established industry standard that the Standard Penetration Test represents.