On the relationship between CPT sleeve-friction and snow density

Snow density profiles are usually determined gravimetrically; only recently have additional tools, such as the neutron probe allowed in situ assessment. However, rapid high-resolution in situ assessment of snow density is still not possible. Data from Cone Penetration Testing (CPT) in polar snow was compared both qualitatively and quantitatively with snow density data in order to examine relationships between CPT sleeve friction and density. A statistically significant relationship exists between snow density and depth-adjusted CPT sleeve-friction. Use of cone penetration test sleevefriction data enables in situ density estimation to depths of up to 10 m in polar snow.