This study reviews existing cone penetration test (CPT) correlations for the prediction of the small strain shear modulus (Gmax). Its performance is investigated through application to an open-source offshore ground investigation dataset from the Netherlands. The research evaluates correlations involving various parameters such as cone tip and corrected cone tip resistance, net corrected cone resistance, sleeve friction, pore water pressure, and vertical effective stress. Results indicate that correlations are highly site-specific, often requiring recalibration to account for local conditions. Existing sand correlations provide more accurate predictions but tend to underpredict Gmax, while clay-specific correlations tend to overpredict Gmax, particularly in stiffer offshore clays. The study also highlights the need for further exploration of parameter normalisation to refine these correlations. This work represents an additional step in the understanding of CPT-based Gmax predictions and their associated uncertainties, emphasizing the importance of developing robust, site-specific correlations for optimal offshore wind foundation design.

The large diameter monopile is a commonly used foundation concept for offshore wind turbines. The advantages of geometrical simplicity and reliable performance make it often the most attractive solution. Despite the concept’s high popularity, optimisation of the current design models can still be made. To address fundamental understanding of modelling effects in centrifuge testing of laterally loaded monopiles in sand, a large coordinated centrifuge-testing program across 11 different centrifuge centres worldwide is ongoing. This extended abstract presents the initial results of global benchmark testing.