Our paper on the determination of K₀ (coefficient of earth pressure at rest) and the state parameter using high-resolution pressuremeter testing, finite element modeling (FEM), and artificial intelligence (AI) was recognized with the Ménard Award for Outstanding Papers at the 8th International Symposium on Pressuremeters (ISP8), held in Luxembourg from September 2 to 5, 2025. During the closing ceremony, Rafael Martínez, CEO of Pangea Geotecnia, accepted the award and certificate on behalf of the co-authors: Rafael Martínez, Maximiliano Jara, Fernando Schnaid, and Gonzalo Montalva.
What Challenge Does This Research Address?
In geotechnical engineering, two parameters are fundamental for achieving accurate and reliable designs:
- K₀ (coefficient of earth pressure at rest)
- State parameter, which describes how loose or dense a soil is relative to its critical state.
Determining these parameters in situ is challenging. Conventional approaches are often affected by disturbances caused during probe installation, introducing bias into the measurements and increasing uncertainty in the design of dams, tunnels, retaining structures, and mining infrastructure.
Pangea Geotecnia's Contribution
We developed an integrated methodology that combines:
- High-resolution push-in pressuremeters, including cone pressuremeters and self-boring pressuremeters.
- Finite element modeling (FEM) to simulate and correct installation effects.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) to interpret pressuremeter response curves and estimate K₀ and the state parameter with greater accuracy.
To validate the methodology, we used a cylindrical steel calibration chamber that allowed precise control of both the soil conditions and the testing procedure, including a loose sand condition created by dry pluviation. In addition, three well-documented case studies were analyzed. The interpreted parameters showed good agreement with the measured values.
Benefits for the Industry
- More accurate characterization of complex ground conditions.
- Safer and more efficient designs for dams, tunnels, retaining structures, and mining projects.
- Reduced uncertainty by accounting for and correcting installation disturbance effects.
- Improved technical traceability to support engineering decisions and risk management.
Recognition at ISP8
During the 8th International Symposium on Pressuremeters (ISP8), held in Luxembourg from September 2 to 5, 2025, the conference committee recognized our research with the Ménard Award for Outstanding Papers for its methodological contribution and practical applicability.
At the closing ceremony, Rafael Martínez, CEO of Pangea Geotecnia, accepted the award on behalf of the co-author team.
This recognition encourages us to continue developing and applying innovative methodologies that raise the standard of geotechnical engineering in Chile and across the region, improving technical traceability and risk management in every project.
The ground speaks. We interpret it.