The Seismic Cone Penetration Test (SCPT) is a reliable, cost effective technique to determine in-situ seismic wave velocities. The seismic test method consists of measuring the travel times of body waves propagating between a wave source on the ground surface and an array of geophones in an in-situ seismic cone penetrometer. These body waves comprise shear waves (S-waves) and compressional or primary pressure waves (P-waves).

The seismic wave velocities give an indication of ground characteristics, such as low-strain shear modulus and Poisson's ratio. These parameters are relevant for assessing the response of dynamically loaded foundations and for earthquake studies.