THE SABA ENGINEERING PLC CENTRAL MATERIAL TESTING LABORATORY Addis Ababa "y Manual of Soil Testing Part I Ayehutsega Awgchew 25 November 2002 NY , Cr ae A 2 Phony PIA tare E ENZA SABA ENGINEERING privare umrep coupanr Enait sabaeng@ethionstet Website: we. Box 62608; Tel. 30:06 99 /361065/ 991488) 391730139906; ox 301250381817 Winecng om Ais Ababa, EthiopiaPreface This manual is intended primarily describes the procedures and as working manual Jor laboratory and field engineers, technicians and other engaged on the testing of ‘material and soil in a laboratory for civil engineering such as road, bridge, air port, dam, seaport etc purposes. The test procedures are in essence based on AASHTO, ASTM and British Standard or laboratory and field testing of soils. It is based of may own experience over many years both in managing large soil (most of through Ethiopia) soils testing laboratories and in the instruction of technicians and graduated engineers and others in test procedures. Thave made a special efforts to explain those points of detail which are often the couse of difficulty or misunderstanding. The step-by-step presentation of procedures and test result examples, the use of test data examples flow diagram and calculations are provided for this purpose, especially for the trainees and new comers to soil testing. Manual part I presents details of the methods in Atterberg limits, AASHTO and ‘unified soil classification, compaction, CBR, Specific Gravity and In-place Density of soil most of these procedures are covered by AASHTO, ASTM and British Standard. T hope that the topics giving background information, general applications and basic theory will enable engineers and technicians to obtain a better appreciation of the Purpose and significance of the tests they perform. J hope that this manual will be well used in the laboratory and field and I should welcome any comments and criticism from those who use it. Ayehutsega Awgchew Head SABA Eng. Central LaboratoryTABLE OF CONTENT Introduction .. Moisture Content Atterberg Limits Casagrande - Liquid Limit Method .. Plastic Limi Plasticity Index... Cone Penetrometer Liquid Limi Soil Classification AASHTO Soil Classification. Unified Soil Classification ......... Shrinkage Limits Volume Metric .....ccccssssereeccsssseeeeessssniesesssnneessssnueesssnnresssaneressssnetsesssnnerssennnsesses 48 Linear... Amount of Material Finer than No. 200 sieve .. Standard Method of Mechanical Analysis of Soil .. Hydrometer Analysis. Specific Gravity of Soil... 84 91 107 129 Moisture Density Relationship... California Bearing Ratio (CBR). In-place Density ..INTRODUCTI SOIL 1. Soil is derived from the latin word solium. The upper layer of the earth that may be dug or plowed specifically, the loose surface material of the earth in which plants grow. The soil is used in the field of agronomy where the main concern is in the use of soil for raising crops. The term soil is used for the upper layer of mantle which can support plants. The material which is called soil by the agronomist or the Beologist is known as top soil in geotechnical engineering or soil engineering. The ‘op soil contains a large quantity of organic matter and is not suitable as a construction material or a foundation for structures. The top soil is removed from the earth's surface before the construction of structures, Im soil engineering is defined as an unconsolidated material, composed of solid Particles, produced by the disintegration of rocks. The void space between the Particles may contain air, water or both. ‘The solid particles may contain organic matter. The soil particles can be separated by such mechanical means as agitation in water. A natural aggregate of mineral particles bonded by strong and permanent cohesive forces is called rock. Soil is composed of loosely bound mineral grains of various size and shapes, organic material, water and gases. The bonds holding solid particles together in most soil are relatively weak in Comparison to most sound rocks. In fact and air-dried sample of soil will crumble and break down within a relatively short period when placed in water and gently agitated, The solid particles of which soils are composed are usually the products of both Physical and chemical action on weathering. Deposits of these weathered solid Constituent may be found near or directly above the bed rock (residual soils) or organic deposits from which they were formed. Many soil deposits, however, have been transported from their point of origin to new locations by such agents as water, wind, ice or volcanic action water-transported soils are classed as alluvial (deposited by moving water on flood plains, deltos, and bars)1.2 Soil may be considered as an incidental material obtained from the geologic cycle which goes on continuously in nature. ‘The geologic cycle consists of erosion, ‘ransportation, deposition and upheaval of soil. Exposed rocks are eroded and degraded by various physical and chemical processes. ‘The Products of erosion are Picked up by a gencies of transportation, such as water and wind and are carried to new locations where they are deposited. Based on the mode of origin, rocks can be divided into three basic types: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Igneous Rock:- are formed by solidification of molten magma ejected from the deeper part of the earth's mantle. Molten magma on the surface of the earth cools after being ejected by either fissure or volcanic eruption. Sedimentary Rock:- The deposits of gravel, sand, silt and clay formed by weathering may be come compacted by overburden pressure. Metamorphic Rock:- is the process of changing the composition and texture of rock (without melting) by heat and pressure. Marble: is formed from calcite and dolomite by recrystallitation, The mineral Brains in marble are larger than those in the original rock. Quartzite a metamorphic Tock formed from quartz-rich sand stones, Soil Structure Soil particles may vary over a wid range. Soils are generally called gravel, sand, silt, or clay, depending on the predominant silt of soil particles. ‘To describe soils by their Particle size, several organizations have developed soil-separate-size limits For the Coarse grained soils, primary structure can frequently be observed with the unaided ©¥¢ or a handlens. Methods for observing the structure of fine grained soil (silts and clays) have been slower in developing,1.3 Water, Solids and Air Relationships In the case of primary structures, however, visual observations usually are i insufficient, and indirect means are employed to evaluate this factor roughly. To do this it has been found convenient to think of any soil as being composed of three states of matter solid, water and gas or air. Although it is impossible to make this separation into three separate states in the laboratory, it is convenient to represent soil as shown in figure 1 Ve Air 9 2. Soil Type | A geotechnical engineer should be well versed with the nomenclature and terminology of different types of soils. The following list gives the names and salient characteristics of different types of soils, arranged in alphabetical order. | 2.1 Black cotton soil 2.9 Desert soils 2.17 Expansive clays | 2.2. Brown clay 2.10 Cobbles 2.18 Organic clay i 2.3. Red clay 2.11 Gravel 2.19 Blue clay i 2.4 Gray clay 2.12 Laterites 2.20. Yellow clay | 2.5 Pinkish clay 2.13 Peat 2.21 Green clay | 2.6 Betonite clay 2.14 Sand 2.22, Wheit clay i 2.7 Boulders 2.15 Silt etc. : 2.8 Tuff 2.16 Top soil { 1. Desert Soil: Loose fine deposit sand and silt and dust particles size of the particles is uniform in gradation.2. Lateritce formed by decomposition of rock, removal of base and silica, and accumulation of iron oxide and aluminium oxide. The presence of iron oxide gives these soils the characteristic red or pink color. These are residual soils formed from basalt. 3. Black Cotton Soil:- is clay of high plasticity. Its contain essentially the clay mineral montmorillonite. The soil has high shrinkage and swelling characteristics. ‘The shrinkage strength of the soil is extremely low. The soil is highly compressible and has very low bearing capacity. It is extremely difficult to work with such soil. 4, Betonite:- It is a type of clay with a very high percentage of clay mineral montmorillnite. It is a highly plastic clay, resulting from the decomposition of volcanic ash. It is highly water absorbent and has highly shrinkage and swelling characteristics. 5. Expansive Clay:- a large volume changes as the water content is changed This soil contain the montmorillonite. 6. Clay: It consists of microscopic and sub-microscopic particles derived from the chemical decomposition of rock. It contains a large quantity of clay minerals. It can be made plastic by adjusting the water content. It exhibits considerable strength when dry. Clay is a fine grained soil. It is a cohesive soil the particle size is less than 0.002mm. 7. Gravel: Gravel is a type of coarse-grained soil. The particles size ranges from 4.75mm to 75mm 8. Cobbles:~ Cobbles are large size particles in the range of 75mm to 300mm. 9. Boulders:- Boulders are rock fragments of large size, more than 300mm in size. 10. Peat:- It is an organic soil having fibrous aggregates of macroscopic and microscopic particles. It is formed from vegetal matter and different plants, animals wast water under conditions of excess moisture, such as in swamps. It is highly compressible and not suitable of foundation. 11, Sand:- It is a coarse-grained soil, having 0.075 to 4.75mm size. The particles are visible to naked eye. The sand is most of producted from river. 12. Silt Itis a fine grained soil, with particle size between 0.002 to 0.075mm the particle size is not visible to naked eye. It has non or little plasticity and no more swelling and cohesionless4 5a 13. Tuff:- It is a fine-grained soil composed of very small particles ejected from volcanoes during its explosion and deposited by wind or water. 14. Top Soil:- Top soil are surface soils that support and grow plants, they contain a large quantity of organic matter and are not suitable for foundation. Soil Mechani Soil mechanics is the application of the laws of mechanics and hydraulics to engineering problems dealing with sediments and other unconsolidated occultation of solid particles produced by the mechanical and chemical disintegration of rock regardless of whether or not they contain on admixture of organic constituents; soil mechanics is therefore, a branch of mechanics which deals with the action of forces on soil and with the flow of water in soil Geotechnical Engineering Soil In an applied science dealing with the applications of principles of soil mechanics to practical problems. It has a much wider scope than soil mechanics, as it deals with all engineering problems related with soils. It includes soil investigations, design and construction of foundations, earth-retaining structures and earth structures. Soil Engineering Foundation: - Every civil engineering structure, whether it is a building, a bridge, or a dam, is founded on or below the surface of the earth. Foundations are required to transmit the load of the structure to soil safely and efficiently. Foundation is termed shallow foundation (light load) when it transmits the load to upper strata of earth.A foundation is called deep foundation when the load is transmitted to strata at considerable depth below the ground surface. Pile Foundation:- is a type of deep foundation. Foundation engineering is an important branch of soil engineering 5.2 Retaining Wall:- when sufficient space is not available for a mass of soil to spread and from a safe slope, a structure is required to retain the soil. An earth retaining structure is also required to keep the soil at different levels on its either side. The retaining structure may be a rigid retaining wall or a sheet pile bulkhead which is relatively flexible. Soil engineering gives the theories of earth pressure on retaining structures.5.3 Earth Dai Earth dams are huge structures in which soil is used as a Construction material. The earth dams are built for creating water reservoirs. Since the failure of an earth dam may cause wide spread catastrophe, extreme case is taken in its design and construction. It requires a thorough knowledge of soil engineering. EARTH DAM ‘SHELL FILTER 5.4 Pavement De = A pavement is a hand crust placed on soil (subgrade) for {he purpose of providing a smooth and strong surface on which vehicles can move. The pavement consists of pavement, base and subbase. ‘The behavior of subgrade under various conditions of loading and environmental changes is studied in soil engineering, 5.5 Some problems of Soil:- The geotechnical engineer has sometimes to take miscellaneous problems related with soil frost heave, shrinkage and swelling of s depth study of such problems, , Such as soil heave, soil subsidence, ‘oils. Soil engineering provides on in | i | ||The chemical and physical properties of materials are determined by carrying out different tests on samples of soil in a laboratory. Tests for the assessment of engineering properties, such as moisture content, atterberg limits, gradation and hydrometer analysis, density, CBR, in-situ density etc. The parameters determined from laboratory tests, taken together with descriptive data relating to the soil, area required by soil engineers for many purposes. The more usual applications are follows. @) The findings of a site investigation can be supplemented by farther testing as construction proceed ») Criteria for the acceptance of a material used in construction ©) Data acquired from classification tests are applied to the identification of soil of soil strata. ©) Laboratory tests are needed as part of the control measures which are applied during construction of earth works on for ensuring that the design criteria are meet. The advantages of laboratory testing are in a field investigation for different construction Projects, the field operations, which includes of the geology and history of the site Subsurface exploration and in place testing, are of prime importance. The determination of the ground characteristics by in place testing can take into account large scale effects. However the measurement of soil properties by means of laboratory tests offers a number of advantages, as follows: 1. A test can be run under conditions which are similar to, or which different from those prevailing in situ, as may appropriate, 2. Test can be carried out on material (soils) which have been broken down and reconstituted. 3. Control of the test conditions, including boundary conditions can be exercised. Control can be exercised over the choice of material which is to be tested, 5. Laboratory testing generally permits a greater degree of accuracy of measurements that does field tests. The evaluation of soil properties from reliable test procedures has led to a closen ‘understanding of the nature and probable behaviour of soils as engineering materials, Some of the resulting advantages in the realm of civil engineering construction have been:a) Increasing economy in the use of soils as construction materials b) Reduction of uncertainities in the analysis of foundations and earthworks ©) Exploitation of difficult sites 4) Economies in design due to the use of lower factors of safety ©) Erection of structures, and below-ground construction, which would not have been feasible without this knowledge. Scope of Manual This manual is concerned only soil tesing. Soil Laboratory Testing Test:- drived from Latin, testum treating or trying gold, metals and silver alloys Examination or trial by which the quality of anything may be determined. The process or action of examining a substance under known conditions in order to determine its identify or that of one of its constituents. ‘The physical properties of materials are tested in order to determine their ability to satisfy particular requirements Laboratory:- Experiments in natural science. Sample:- A relatively small quantity of material from which the quality of the mass which it represents may be inferred. Specimen:- A part of as representative of the whole sample. This manual deals with standard laboratory. = Moisture content ~ Atterberg limits (LL, PL, PI, SL, LS) ~ Compaction — Classification — California Bearing Ratio — Inplace Density = Sieve analysis and hydrometer Method of test for soil for civil engineering purposes. The procedure (tests) described here are based on Standard Practice Specified in the AASHTO, ASTM and BS (Standard). ‘The main emphasis of the manual, however, is on the detailed procedures to be followed in preparing samples for and carrying out differenttests in the laboratory. Appropriate to this tests, details of the apparatus required, a procedural stages, and step by step detailed procedures are included, The typical examples, calculation and plotting of graphs and presentation of results are described. Finally:- it is essential material testing technician requires a knowledge of good testing techniques and an understanding of the correct procedures for the soil sample preparation and for testing. ‘Terminology and units are used metric (SI) 10Soil Survey (Investigation) and Sampling Purpose of the Soil Investigation (survey) is an essential part of a preliminary engineering soil survey for location and design purposes. Information on the distribution of soil ‘material and ground-water table and conditions must be obtained before a reasonable and economic design can detailed soil survey (investigation) provides pertinent information on the following subject. 1. The selection of the type of surface and its design. The design of the roadway section The location of the road, both vertically and horizontally The design and location of culvert ditches and drains. The need for subgrade treatment and the type of treatment required. The location and selection of borrow material for files and subgrade treatment. 2 Aw YD The selection of local sources of construction materials for subbase, base course and surfacing or wearing course The soil survey consists of the following: ~ The exploration of the site of the road location by test pit or auger borings and the Preparation of soil profiles the significant soil layers. The critical depths to bed rock and water table and the extent of adverse ground conditions such as swaps or peat bogs ~The study of all existing information on soil, and ground-water conditions occurring in the vicinity of the proposed road location, ~The identification of the various soil types from soil profile characteristics occurring on the proposed road project. ~ The taking of representative samples of soil and local construction materials (subbase, base course and surfacing materials) for laboratory testing Road site Exploration:- the field work for this phase of the soil survey consists of making examinations of the soils by means of borings, test pits or road cuttings. Borings for foundation should be deep enough to determine if bed rock, adverse ground (peat) or water conditions are apt to be encountered during the construction of the proposed road. After the boundaries of each soil type are established, sampling sites are selected so that representative samples can be obtained for laboratory test purposes. iEquipment for Soil Survey The type of equipment required for making a soil survey. Ouger Rod Tape Sample bags Shovel Pick avaene Soil sampling or selection: Sample of soil or gravel should be obtained from each soil layer (depth) and limited distance with pick and shovel from the proposed test pit selected on the basis of a study auger boring or test pit records. Each sample should be placed in a canvas bag, marked with adequate identification, tied securely and shipped to the laboratory. A sufficient amount and number of samples should be taken to establish the range in test results for what appears to be the same soil layer. Or soils survey should be conducted along the proposed route in order to asses the existing pavement condition including soil extension. Construction materials subbase material (select material source, base course material, surfacing and water should be sampled for laboratory test determination.SECTIONT MOISTURE CO! AND INDEX TESTS Moisture Content (BS1377: Part 2: 1990 and ASTM D2216) Definition The mass of water which can be removed from the soil and aggregate by heating (oven drying) at 105 - 110° expressed as a percentage of the dry mass. Apparatus — Moisture can (container) - Balance = Oven — Spatula — Pan Procedure Clean and dry the moisture can (container). Make sure that all are marked the same reference no. or letter. a. Weigh each container and record. b. Place the wet sample in the container, the mass of sample to be used as follows: Mass of soil sample 50-300 gm Mass of aggregate sample 300-500gm c. Weigh wet of sample + container and record d, Place the wet sample + container in the oven. Maintain the required temperature normally 105 — 1100c for 12 — 24 hours. e. Remove the sample from the oven and allow in the air to cool at least 10- 15min. f. Weigh the dried sample + container and record.PLU etch een th masre conciner ‘and accessories .4. Calculation :- i 4 The moisture content of a soil or aggregate is expressed as a percentage of its dry mass. Moisture content= A-B B-C where A. Weight of wet sample + Container B. Weight of dry sample + container C. Weight of container 1.2. ter] Limit: 1.2.1, Determining the Liquid Limit (AASHTO Designation T89- 90) 1, Definition : The liquid limit of a soil is the moisture (water) content at which soil Passes from the plastic to liquid state as determined by the liquid limit test. 2. Apparatus : a. Mixing ( Evaporating dish) about 114mm diameter b. Spatula or peel knife having blade about 76mm length and 19mm width c. Motorized liquid limit divice d. Grooving tool e. Moisture can (container ) £. Balance sensitive to 0.01gm g. Pan (small) h. Drying oven i. Graduated measuring cylinder 10:50ml41 3. Sample preparation The soil sample as received‘Sufficient from field - A sample shall be taken from the thoroughly mixed portion of the material passing the No 40(0.425mm) sieve which has been obtained in accordance with the standard method of preparing disturbed soil sample or the standard method of wet preparation of disturbed soil sample for test. Dry preparation - Allow the sample in air to dry at room temperature or in an oven at a temperature not exceeding 60°c. Break down aggregations of particles in a mortar using a rubber pestle but avoid crushing individual particles. Place in the cup or dish a sample weighing about more than 100gm. Procedure > Adjustment of Mechanical Devic The liquid limit divice shall be inspected to determine that the divice is in good working order, that the pin connecting the cup is not worn sufficiently to permit side play that the screws connecting the cup to the hanger arm are tight and that a groove has not been worn in the cup through long usage. The grooving tool shall be inspected to determine that the critical dimensions are as shown Fig. 1.1. By means of the gauge on the handle of the grooving tool and the adjustment plate H, Fig. 1.1, the height to which the cup is lifted shall be adjusted so that the point on the cup which comes in contact with the base is exactly 1cm (0.3937") above base. The adjustment plate H shall than be well secured by tightening the screws 1. With the gage still in place revolving the crank rapidly several times shall check the adjustment. If the adjustment is correct, a slight ringing sound will be heard when the cam strikes the cam follower. If the cup is raised off the gauge or no sound is heard farther adjustment shall be made. The apparatus must be clean and the bowl must be dry and oil free. Check that the grooving tool is clean and dry, and conforms to the correct profile.42 43 The machine should be placed on a firm solid part of the bench so that it will not wobble. The position should also be convenient for turning the handle steadily and at the correct speed (two turns per second). Practice against a second’s timer with the cup empty to get accustomed to the correct rhythm. Mixing :- The soil sample shall be placed in the evaporating (mixing) dish and add sufficient distilled water and mix the soil sample in the mixing dish with the spatula for at least 10min. Some soils especially heavy clay may need a longer mixing time up to 45min. When sufficient water has been thoroughly mixed with the soil to form a uniform mass of stiff consistency, a sufficient quantity of this mixture shall be placed in the cap above the spot where the cap rests on the base and shall then be squeezed and spread into the position shown in Fig. 1.2 with as few strokes of the spatula as possible, care being taken to prevent the entrapping of air bubbles within the mass. With spatula the soil shall be leveled and at the same time trimmed to a depth of 10mm at the point of maximum thickness. The excess sample shall be returned to the mixing dish. The sample in the cup of the mechanical device shall be divided by a firm stroke of the grooving tool along the diameter through the centerline of the cum follower so that a clean sharp groove of the proper dimensions will be formed. To avoid tearing of the sides of the groove or slipping of the soil cake in the cup, upto six strokes from front to back or from back to front counting as one stroke shall be permitted, The depth of the groove should be increased with each stroke and only the last stroke should scrape the bottom of the cup. Turn the crank handle of the machine at a steady rate of two Tevolutions per second, so that the bowl is lifted and dropped. Use a second’s time if necessary to obtain the correct speed. If a revolution counter is not fitted, count the number of. bumps counting aloud if necessary. Continue turning until the groove is closed along a distance of 13mm. The back end of the standard grooving tool serves as a length gauge. The groove is closed when the two parts of the soil come into contact at the bottom of the groove. Record the number of blows required to reach this condition. If there is a gap between twoLIQUID AND PLASTIC LIMITS, Fig. 217 Casagrande liquid limit apparacus and tools locking screw (2) 0)26 LIQUID AND PLASTIC LIMITS position Brooving toot when cutting thickness tomm (0) Fig, 220. Soil plced in Casagrande bowl, and use of grovcng toot ()20points of contact continue until there is a length of continuos contact of 13mm, and record the number of blows. 4.4 Remove a slice of soil approximately the width of the spatula cxtending from edge to edge of the soil. Followed together shall be removed and placed in two suitable containers. The containers and samples shall be weighed and the weight recorded. 4.5 The soil remaining in the cup shall be transferred to the evaporating dish. The cup and grooving tool shall then be washed, clean and dried in preparation for the next trials. 4.6 The foregoing operation shall be repeated for at least two additional portions of the samples to which sufficient water has been added to bring the soil to a more fluid condition. The object of this procedure is to obtain samples of such consistency that at least one determination will be made in each of the following ranges of blows; 1" 25-35, 2" 20-30, 3 15-25, 4.7 Place all the weighed and recorded sample and container in the oven to dry [see Section 1.1 (d-f)]. 4.8. Calculation : - The water content of the soil shall be expressed as the moisture content in percentage of the weight the oven dried mass and shall be calculated as follows. % Moisture content = (A-B )x 100 B-C where A = weight of wet sample + container B = weight of dry sample + container C= weight of container 4.9. Preparation of flow curve Using a semi-logarithmic chart, plot the moisture content as ordinate (linear scale) against the corresponding number of blows as abscissa (logarithmic scale) and the number of blows as ordinates on the logarithmic scale. The flow curve shall be a straight line drown as 21It maybe used to determine the liquid limit for a soil with only one test; this Procedure is generally called the “ one point method” this method has been adopted by ASTM under the designation D423-66, Liquid limit = WN nas)" Where N= number of blows in liquid limit device for 0.5in, groove closure WN = corresponding moisture content N 0.121 for all soils. ‘The reason for obtaining fairly good results by the one point method is due to the small range of moisture involved for N between 20 and 30. The following table gives the values of (N)/25)"'?! for N= 20 to N.=30 N (N/25)°0T 20 0973 21 0.979 22 0.985 23 0.990 24 0.995 25 000 26 7 28 29 30 22PROJECT : Sue ee er ee dE nes vEEEETEEIETETETEIEETINEIETEIEES SAMPLED BY DATE SAMPLED LAB. NO. DATE TESTED Location Material Depthim) Tauo TRF ~ _o1| a2 | INo. eusesnensets erexeie (| fee 70] aa 77|es |Wi.of cont. + wet soi a) W 7.00] a0.75| 45-42 Wot cont + dry silig). Wi | 3800] s6.32{ 40.07 Wi of water (g)=W=Wi_ | 800] 4.49) 5.35 [Wt container ig), W2 15.80) 25 7/37.87 . JW. dry sol (g.) = Wi - Wo 10.45|_ 12.40] 11.32[ ‘ 42.39] 43.15] 43.90] 26.09] © Water) = WNT WH WTO SUMMARY Lig Lit, LL Plastic Limit, PL Plastic index = LL - PL, la ls iePREPARATION Oven sried i Pestieg P ae | ! i i i | 29 pt 2 50 100 - f NUMBER OF auups x i } | Fia-223- Liguidtnie (Casagrande test) results and grap! ‘ i | 24nearly as possible through the three or more plotted points. This is called the flow curve. 4.10. Liquid Limit Determination:- Draw the ordinate representing 25 blows and where it intersects the flow carve draw the horizontal line to the moisture content axis. Read off this value of moisture content and record it on the horizontal line to the nearest 0.1%. Fig. 1.2. Liquid limit (Casagrande test) Result and Graph (AASHTO Designation T 90-9 1.2.2 Determining the Plastic Limit and Plasticity Index of Soil {AASHTO Designation T 90-90) Definition :- The moisture content at which a mixture of soil passes from a liquid state to that of a semi-solid state. 1. Sample Preparation If the plastic limit analysis required take a quantity of soil weighing about 30-50gm from the thoroughly mixed portion of the material passing the No 40 (0.425mm) sieve [see section 1.2.1(3)]. 2. Apparatus 1. Glass plate reserved for rolling of threads. This should be smooth and free from scratches, oil and grease and about 300mm square and 10mm thick. 2. Palette knife or spatula 3. A short length 100mm length 3mm diameter of metal rod 4, Standard moisture content apparatus [section 1.2.1,(2)] 3. Procedure - Prepare chilled or a small portion of thoroughly or mixed sample from the first trial of LL test 25- Roll into ball ~ Roll into thread until crumbling occurs. a. Rolling into a Ball Mould the ball between the fingers and roll between the palms of the hands so that the warmth of the hands slowly dries it. Squeeze an ellipsoidal shape mass. Roll this mass between the fingers and the ground glass plate with just sufficient pressure to roll the mass into a thread of uniform diameter through out its length. Equalize the distribution of moisture, and then form into a thread about 6mm diameter, using the first finger and thumb of each hand. The thread must be intact and homogenous. The pressure should reduce the diameter of the thread from 6mm to about 1/8in or 3mm after between five and ten back and front movements of the hand. Some heavy expansive clays may need more than this because this type of soil tends to become harder near the plastic limit. It is important to maintain a uniform rolling Pressure throughout: do not reduce pressure as the thread approaches 3mm diameter. When the diameter of the thread becomes 1/8in(3mm) break the thread into six or eight pieces. Squeeze the pieces together between the thumbs and fingers of both hands into a uniform mass roughly ellipoidal in shape and reroll. Continue this alternate rolling to a thread 1/8in. (3mm) in diameter gathering together kneading and Terolling , until the thread crumbles and occurs surface cracks, under the pressure required for rolling and the soil can no longer be rolled into thread. The crumbling may occur when the thread has a diameter greater than 1/8in. (3mm). This shall be considered a satisfactory end point provided the soil has been previously rolled into a thread 1/8in. Gmm) in diameter. The crumbling will manifest itself differently with the various types of soil. Some soils such as dulotancy tuff, ash ete fall apart in numerous small aggregations of particles. Others may form an outside tubular layer that starts splitting at both ends. The splitting progress toward the middle and finally the thread falls apart in many small ploty particles. This type of samples should no longer be tolled. 26a. Gather the pieces together after crumbling stage is reached. Divide into two parts and place in a suitable moisture can (container), weigh the container and wet soil, record the weight, Place the moisture can and wet sample in the oven. Maintain the required temperature normally 105-110°c for 12-24 hours. Remove the sample from oven and allow in the air for about 5- 10 min. Weigh the dried sample and moisture can and record. b. Calculation Moisture content ( A-B ) x 100 ( plastic limit) B-C Refer section 1.2.1.(4.8) 1.2.3. Plasticity Index a The difference between the liquid limit and plastic limit is calculated to give the plasticity index (PI). Eg. Plasticity Index ( PI ) = Liquid Limit (LL, PL) Plastic Limit (PI). (If LL=40 and PL=21, then PI=40-21=19) 1.3. Liquid Limit — With Cone Penetrometer 1.3.1.General :- This method is used for determining the liquid limit of soil. It is based on the measurement of penetration into the soil of a standardized cone of specified mass. At the liquid limit the cone penetration is 20mm, it requires the same apparatus as is used for bituminous material testing but fitted with a special cone. 281.3.2. Apparatus 2. A flat glass plate, of convenient size, 10mm thick and about 500mm square. 3. Spatulas or palette knives. 4. Cone for the penetrometer, stainless steel or duralumin with smooth polished surface, length approximately 35mm, cone angle 30°, sharp point mass of cone and sliding shaft 80g+0.1g. 5. Sharpness gauge for cone, consisting of a small steel plate 1.75mm_ +0.lmm thick with a 1.5mm+0.02mm diameter hole accurately drilled and reamed. . Metal cups of brass or aluminum alloy 55mm thick and 40mm deep. . Metal straight edge about 100mm long. . Moisture content apparatus, . An evaporating dish (mixing dish), about 150mm diameter . 0.Wash bottle or beaker, containing distilled water. 1.3.3. Sample preparation a. Use of Natural soil :- a a = 9 9 When the soil consists of clay and silt with little or no material retained on a N0.40 (0.425mm) sieve, it can be prepared for testing from its natural state, Take a representative sample of about 500g of soil and chop into small pieces or shred with cheese grater. Mix with distilled water on a glass plate, using two palette knives. During this process remove any coarse particles by hand or with tweezers. Mix the water thoroughly into the soil until a thick homogeneous paste is formed and the paste has absorbed all the water with no surplus water visible. The mixing time should be at least 10min. with vigorous working of the palette knives. A longer mixing time period up to 45min may be needed for some soils, which do not readily absorb water. Place the mixed soil in an airtight container, such as a sealed polythene bag, and leave to mature for 24 hours. A shorter maturing time may be acceptable for low plasticity clays, and very silty soils could be tested immediately after mixing. If in doubt, 29comparative trial tests should be performed. In a laboratory with a Continuos workload it is good practice to be consistent and allow 24 hours maturing for all soils. The mixed and matured material is then ready for the tests. . Wet preparation:- Take a representative sample of the soil at its natural moisture content to give at least 350gm of material passing the No. 40 (0.425mm) sieve. This quantity allows for a liquid limit and a plastic limit test. Chop into small pieces or shred with a cheese grater, and place in a weighed beaker, weigh and determine the mass of soil m(g) by difference. Take a similar representative sample and determine its moisture content w(%). The dry mass of soil in the test sample mp(g) can then be calculated from the equation:. mp = 100m 100+w Add enough distilled water to the beaker to Just submerge the soil. Break down the soil pieces and stir until the mixture forms slurry. Nest a No.40 (0.425mm) sieve on a receiver, under a guard sieve eg. Nol0 (2mm) sieve if appropriate. Pour the slurry through the sieve or sieves, and wash with distilled water, collecting all the washings in the receiver. Use the minimum amount of water necessary, but continue washing until the water passing the No. 40 (0.425) sieve runs virtually clear. ‘Transfer all the washings Passing the sieve to a suitable beaker with out losing any soil particles, Collect the washed material retained on the sieves. Dry in the ‘oven and determine the dry mass ma(g). Allow the soil particles in the beaker to settle for several hour, or overnight. If there is a layer of clear water above the suspension, this may be carefully poured or siphoned off, without losing any soil particles. However if the soil contains water-soluble salts which might influence its Properties, do not remove any water axept by evaporation. 30Stand the container in a warm place or in a current of warm air, so that it can partially dry. Protect from dust. Stir the soil water mixture frequently to prevent local over-drying. Alternatively, excess water may be removed by filtration. When the mixture forms a stiff paste such that the penetration of the cone penetrometer would not exceed 15mm the soil is ready for mixing on the glass plate as described above. No additional curing time is required and the material is ready for the tests. Calculate the percentage by dry mass of soil in the original sample passing the 0.425mm sieve (P,) from the equation Pa=mp=me x 100 ™p ¢. Dry preparation ;- Allow the soil sample to air dry at room temperature, or in one oven a temperature not exceeding 50° [see Section 1.2.1(3)]. 1.3.4. Procedure a. Take a sample of about 300gms-soil paste and place the prepared soil paste on the glass plate. b. Mix the soil paste on the glass with the spatulas for at least 10-min, Some soil especially heavy clays may need a longer mixing time. If necessary add more distilled water so that the first cone penetration reading is about 15mm. c. Press the mixed soil paste into the cup with a palette knife (spatula) taking care not to trap air. Strike off excess soil with the straight edge to give a smooth level surface. d. Lock the cone shaft unit near the upper end of its travle and lower the supporting assembly carefully so that the tip of the cone is within a few mms of the surface of the soil in the cup. When the cone is in the correct position, a slight movement of the cup will just make the soil surface. Lower the stem-of the dial gauge to 3132Contact the cone shaft and record the reading of the dial gauge to the nearest 0.1mm. - Release (Allow) the cone by pressing the button for a period of 5+1 second timed with a seconds timer or watch. If the apparatus is not fitted with an automatic release and locking device, take care not to jerk the apparatus during this operation. After 5 seconds release the button so as to lock the cone in place. Lower the dial gauge stem to make contact with the top of the core shaft without allowing the pointer sleeve to rotate relative to the stem adjustment knob. Record the reading of the dial auge to the nearest 0.1mm Record the difference between the beginning and end of the drop as the cone penetration. See Fig.1.3. Lift out the cone and clean it carefully to avoid scratching, - Add a little distilled water and remix and add a little more wet soil to the cup, taking care not to trap air, make the surface smooth. Repeat section 1.3.3(d), If the second cone penetration differs from the first by less than 0.5mm, the average value is recorded, and proceed to the next h. . If the second penetration is between 0.5 and Imm different from the first, a third test is carried out provided that the overall range does not exceed Imm, the average of the three penetrations is Tecorded and the content is measured stage (1). i. If the overall range exceeds Imm, the soil is removed from the cup and re-mixed and the test is repeated from stage C. j. Take a moisture content sample of about not less than 10g, the area penetrated by the cone, using the tip of a small spatula. Place it ina suitable container and determine its moisture content. . The soil remaining in the cup is re-mixed with the rest of the sample on the glass plate together with a little more distilled water, until a uniform softer consistency is obtained. The cup is scraped out with the square -ended Spatula wiped clean and dried, and stages ( C-J ) are repeated at least three more times, with further increments of distilled water,SABA Engineering Plc. P.O. Box 62668 Addis Ababa. Ethiopia. Tel. $4 10.65 /341617/ 241499/941733 /492423-28 Fax. 3412007341617 Esai sava eng@iclecomnetet ATTERBERG LIMITS CONE-PENETRATION METHOD rial No. 1 2 3 4 [Contained No CI c2 cs 4 [Cone Penetration 162 196 224 240 JW Wt of wet sam +Cont 487 605 638 745 WW Wt. of dry sam.+Cont 33.1 394 405 460 fW2. Wt. of Container 85 36 83 84 tof moisture (wet) (wW1) 156 24 233 285 It. of dry (w1-wa2) 246 308 ~ 382 376 Moisture Content{_W-W1_ x 100 63.4 68.5 724 75.8 LL (wr-we] "2000 eee 18 3 2 10 11 12 19 14 15 18 47 18 19 20 21 72 29 4 25 26 27 28 20 90 Gone Penetration mm 3 Lint Cone-pen.A range of penetration values from about 15mm to 25mm should be covered, fairly uniformly distributed. |. Calculation The moisture content of the soil from each penetration reading is calculated from the wet and dry weightings as in the moisture content [see section 1.2.1(4.8)]. Moisture content (%) = (A-B) x 100 B-C where A = weight of wet sample + container B = weight of dry sample + container C= weight of container Test Results From the graph the moisture content corresponding to a standard cone penetration of 20mm is read off to the nearest 0% reported to the nearest whole number as the liquid limit. See Fig. 1.3. 1.4. Soil classification 1.4.1. General: - The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Official (AASHTO) system of soil classification is based upon the observed field performance of soil under highway pavements and is widely known and used among highway engineers . 14. w . Definition: - Soil classification is systematically grouping or categorizing of soil. It provides a common language to express briefly the general characteristics of soils 351.4.3, Procedure :- The AASHTO soil classification system is classified into seven (7) major groups A-l through A-7. Soils classified under groups A-1, A- 3 and A-2 are granular (gravels, sand and gravelly clay). Materials with 35% or less passing through a No.200 (0.075mm) sieve. The silt and silty clay materials with more than 35% passing the No.200 (0.075mm) sieve are classified under groups A-4, A-5, A-6 and A-7. After the necessary laboratory tests have been preformed the proper classification for a given material can normally be made without great difficulty. The classification of a specific soil is based upon the results of tests made in accordance with standard methods of soil testing. To classify a soil by Table 1.1 one must proceed form left to right with the required test data available by the process of elimination. The first group from the left into which the test data will fit gives the correct classification. To evaluate the performance quality of a soil as a highway subgrade material under this system, a number called the group index is included with the groups and sub- groups of the soil. The group index of a soil may range from 0-20 and is expressed as a whole number. The approximate subgrade and base performance quality of a given soil is inversely proportional to its group index, and it can be expressed by the following empirical relation. Group index = (GI)( F-35%) [0.2+0.005 (LL-40)]}+0.01(F-15)(PI-10) where GI = group index F= percentage of soil passing a No 200 (0.075mm) sieve LL = liquid limit PI = plasticity index The group index is rounded off to the nearest whole number. The group index may also be evaluated with Fig. 1.4 by adding the vertical reading, the vertical reading is obtained from the two charts: © Chart one LL with No. 200 passing sieve and © Chart two PI with a No.200 passing sieve. Add the two values. 361.4.4, Classification Parameters 1. Liquid Limit 2. Plasticity Index 3. Grain Size Analysis Note :- Detail Soil Classification General A-I, A-3, A-2, A-4, AS, A6 and A-7 1. Granular Materials and Sand: 35% or less passing a No.200 (0.075mm) sieve are A-1, A-3 and A-2. Sieve | % size | Passing | LL | PI No.10 | S0max | - | 6max Group A-1 material divided A-l-a |No.40_ | 30Max into two subgroups Al No.200 | 1Smax A-I-b [No.40 | 50max | - | 6max No.200 | 25max 2. Group A-3 Material Sieve Size | % Passing LL PI A-3 No.40 Simin NP NP No.200 10 max 373. Group A-2 Material Sieve % Size__| Passing | LL PL Group A-2 material A-2-4 [No.200 | 35 or less |40 max _| 10max divided into four A2-5_|No.200_ | 35orless [41min | 10max subgroups A2 [A-2-6 |No.200_| 35 or less |40max__| 11min A-2-7_|No.200 [35 orless [41min _ | 11min 2. Silt and Silty Clay or Heavy Clay Materials: 35% or more passing No. 200 (0.075mm) sieve are A-4, A-5,A-6, and A-7. 4, Group A-4 Material Sieve % 7 Size_| Passing |__LL PI_| { AA No.200 | 36min | 40 max | 10 min 5. Group A-5 Material - Sieve % Size _| Passing LL PI AS No.200 | 36min | 41 max | 10 min 6. Group A-6 Material Sieve | % - Size_| Passing | LL PI | A6 No.200 | 36min | 40max_| min 7. Group A-7 Material Tr Sieve % Size Passing LL PL A-7__| A-7-5 | No.200 | 36min | 41min | [min No.200 | 36min 4imin LminCHWAY SUBCRADE phar ABSGG CLACSIFIC AT! Sener casaiictten Group classiticetion Sieve analy pee The PL. of an A-7-5 ‘group’ is 30 or greater. 520 25 30 The RL. of an A-7-6 group is less than 30 or more 5 PrTEgO 35. 40 45 1 }10-16F sroup Index equals sum readings on both vertical les iquid limit and plasticity ex ranges for A-4, A-5, 3, nd A-7 subgrade ups. Provicty index Pi 102 30 0 90 65 60. 55: or more a Ns . “Ber cent passthy No. 200 gto For g-3-s: PL 2 See 30) Por we-7-6:7F > (ee-Bep LobPlasticity Index of A-7-5 subgroup is equal to or less than LL minus 30 (A-7-5, PI < LL-30). Plasticity index of A-7-6 subgroup is greater than LL minus 30 (A-7-6, PI > LL-30). Example Liquid Limit = 42 Plasticity Index = 12 Passing No 200 sieve = 35 Soil classification is A-2-7 (1), Example 2 Liquid Limit = 60 Plasticity Index = 30 Passing No.200 sieve = 36 Soil classification is A-7-5 (5). Example 3 Liquid Limit = 49 Plasticity Index = 22 Passing sieve No 200 = 38 Soil classification is A-7-6 (4). Example 4 Liquid Limit or Plasticity Index is NP. Passing sieve No. 200 = 36 Soil classification is A-4 (0). 1.4.5 Soil Fractions 1. Boulders - Material retained on 3 inch (75mm) sieve. They should 40be excluded from the portion of a sample to which the classification is applied but the percentage of such material should be recorded. 2. Gravel - Material passing sieve with 3inch (75mm) and retained on the No 10 (2mm) sieve. 3. Coarse Sand - Material passing the No.10 (2mm) sieve and retained on No. 40 (0.425mm) sieve, 4. Fine Sand - Material passing the No.40 (0.425-mm) sieve and retained on the No 200 (0.075 mm) sieve. 5. Silty Clay ~ Material passing the No.200 (0.075-mm) sieve. ‘The word silt is applied to a fine material having a PI of 10 or less and the term clay is applied to fine material having a PI of more than 10. 1.4.6 Description of Classification Groups A. Granular Materials - Group A-1 — Well graded mixtures of stone fragments or gravel ranging from course to fine with non-plastic or slightly plastic silt binder. ~ Subgroup A-1-a - Stone fragments and sandy gravel some times with silt. ~ Subgroup A-1-b - Stone fragments and gravel with some times clayey silt. - Group A-3 - fine sands and non-plastic silt. ~ Group A-2 - sandy gravel with silt and gravelly clay. - Subgroup A-2-4- and A-2-5 - include various granular materials and sandy clayey silt. ~ Sub group A-2-6 and A-2-7 include materials similar to those described under subgroups A-2-4 and A-2-5 except that the fine Portion contains plastic clay having a higher PI. 413. Soil Classification Definition :- soil classification is systematically grouping or categorizing of soil It provides a common language to express briefly the general characteristics of soils A. AASHTO Soil Classification System: is classified into 7 major groups A-I through A-7 classified and under groups A-1, A-3, A-2 A-4 A-5 A-6 A-7 soils, Under groups A-1, A-2 and A-3 are granular or gravelly clay and sand materials with 35% or less passing through a No.200 (075mm) sieve. The silt and clay materials with more than 35% passing the No 200 (075mm) sieve are classified under groups A-4, A-5, A-6 and A-7. AASHTO Classification Parameters 1. Liquid Limit 2. Plasticity index 3. Grain size analysis Group A-1 A-2 and A-7 material divided into 4 and 2 sub groups. Act A-l-a Acl-b A-2 materials are divided into 4 sub groups ¢ A-1 material can be used for surfacing, base course and subbase. ¢ A-2 material for sub base and sub grade ¢ A-4,5,6 and 7 subgrade only A-7 material is divided into two sub groups Azz ATS A-1-6 Ac7-5 Mat PI is equal to or less than LL-30 A-7-6 material :- PI is greater than LL-30 42Examples Passing Sieve (mm) | Soil PPL ToT oes 0.075 | Classification fi | a 12 : - 36 A-7-5 (1) [2] 7 30 - - 39 A-7-5 (5) 3 | 30 10 - - 10 A-2-4 (0) la] a 20 : - 45 A-7-6 (5) 5 NP 20 | as 3 A-l-a(1) Al Materials:- Stone fragments , gravelly and coarse sand with binder of low plasticity or NP Ac2Materials:- gravelly silt, clay and sand with low and little high plastic material Sand A-4,5,6 & 7 Materials:- Silty clay and Same fines with few gravel A:3 Materi 4BB. Silty Clay Materials ~ Group A-4 - The typical material of this group is fine sandy and silty clay sometimes non-plastic material, liquid limit not exceeding 40 and PI not exeedign10. - Group A-5 - The typical material of this group is similar to that described under group A-4, except that it is usually of diatomaceous or micaceous character and may be highly elastic as indicated by the high liquid limit. ~ Group A-6 - This typical material is a plastic clay soil. The group includes also mixture of fine clayey soil and the Plasticity Index may be high. ~ Group A-7 - The typical materials and problems of this group are similar to those described under group A-6 except that they have the liquid limit and the range of group index values is 1 to 20 with increasing values indicating the combined effect of increasing liquid limits and plasticity indexes and decreasing Percentages of coarse material. - Sub group A-7-5 - includes those materials with moderate Plasticity index in relation to liquid limit and which may be highly elastic as well as subject to considerable volume change. ~ Sub group A-7-6 - includes those materials with high plasticity indexes in relation to liquid limit and which are subject to extremely high volume change. * Highly organic soils such as peat and muck are not included in this classification. 1.5. Unified Soil lassification System General Unified classification system is widely used. This system is an out growth of the Airfield classification developed by casagrande and is utilized by the corps of engineers. In this system, soils fall within one of three major categories: course grained, fine grained and highly organic soils, These categories are further subdivided into 15 basic soil groups. The following group symbols are used in the unified system.G- gravel O-organic S - sand W -well graded M-silt P - poorly graded C- clay U- uniformly graded Pt - peat L - low liquid limit H- high liquid limit Combinations of above letters are used to identify the soils. For example, SP is a sand that is poorly graded and CL and CH indicate clays with low and high liquid limits respectively. The essentials of unified classification system are given in Table 1.5.1 and characteristics pertinent of roads and air fields are shown in Table 15.2. A. Soil components in the unified classification system are as follows: - Cobbles ~ above 75mm (3inch) - Gravel — 75mm to 4.75mm ( inch - No.4) sieve + Coarse sand ~ 4,75mm to 2mm (No 4 - No.10) sieve ~ Medium sand - 2mm to 0.425mm (No 10 to No 40) sieve ~ Fine sand - 0.425mm to 0.075mm ( No 40 to No.200) sieve ~ Fine silt and clay - passing 0.075mm (0.075) sieve. B. Laboratory test specified for silts and clays are the determination of the liquid limit and the plastic limit and plasticity index. C. Laboratory test for coarse-grained soils is based on the grain size analysis. Coarse-grained materials are those containing 50% or less passing 0.075mm (No.200) sieve. Fine grained are those with more than 50% passing 0.075mm ( No. 200) sieve. After determining its grain size distribution, liquid limit and Plasticity index, the soil can be classified using table 1.2 and Fig 14, The minus 0.075mm (No.200) sieve material is “silt” if non-plastic and the liquid limit and plasticity index plot below the “A” line on the plasticity chart ( Fig.1.4) and “clay “ if plastic and the liquid limit and plasticity index plot above the “A” line. This holds true for inorganic silts and clays and organic silts, but not for organic clays since they plot below the “A” line. The “A” line is an 45arbitrarily drawn line on the plasticity chart of Fig, 1.4. The letters in parentheses stand for symbols by which each group is known. A. Coarse Grained Symbols GW-GM, GP-GM,_GW-GC, GP-GC, SW-SM, SW-SC, SP-SM B. Fine Grained Soil Classification with Symbols ML, MI, MH, MV, ME, CL, Cl, CH, CV, CE In Ethiopian practice this chart is divided into five zones, giving the following categories for clays and silts. 1. Clays of low plasticity (CL) less than 35, liquid limit or silts of low plasticity (ML) less than 35 liquid limit. 2. Clays or silts of medium plasticity (CI) or (MI), liquid limit from 35 to 50. 3. Clays or silts of ery high plasticity (CH) or (MH) liquid limit from 50 to 70 4. Clays or silts of very high plasticity (CV) or (MV), liquid limit from 70 to 90. 5. Clays or silts or extremely high plasticity (CE) or (ME), liquid limit exceeding 90. Example Liquid Limit = 72 Plasticity Index = 36 Passing No, 200 sieve = 98 Classification is according to the chart ( Fig. 1.5.2) =MV. The soil is MV group. 46Yeble VI-3—Auxiliary Laboratory Identification Proce COARSE GRAINED 1s Ne, 200 sieve many oxgante su8 | 1% ort More thon, 129% post tes than 5% poss "Nor 200 sieve ere thon 12% poms naaiaiios : No. 200 sieve I wet sroted ow [« 7 perin vse devble rymbol sch oF GW.GM, ae _n-Se eee [= [|=] | S780 O02 "ON wed Geog eau ani —PLASTICITY INDEX 8 cH r A UNE a i] rua : [mH & on T ‘ML & OL ® 10 20 30 40 506070 80 90 “100 UQuIo uMiT1.6_Determining the Shrinkage Factors and Limit of Soils 1. Scope This procedure furnishes data from which the following soil characteristics may by calculated: (a) Shrinkage Limit (b) Shrinkage Ratio (c) Volumetric change (d) Linear shrinkage A. Determination of Volumetric Shrinkage 2, Apparatus 2.1 Evaporating (mixing) dish about 150mm diameter, 2.2 Spatula or peel knife having a blade above 76mm long and 20mm wide. 2.3 Glass cup about 57mm diameter and 38 mm deep with rim ground flat. 2.4 Prong plate, glass or clear acrylic, fitted with three non- corrodible prongs. 2.5 Glass plate, large enough to cover the shrinkage dish. 2.6 Measuring cylinder 25 to 100ml. 2.7 Mercury, rather more than that will fill the glass cup. 2.8 Straight edge, spatula, small tools. 2.9 Balance 3000g capacity reading to 0.01g. 2.10 Moisture content can (container). 2.11 Large tray containing a small amount of water to retain any spilled mercury. 2.12 Vaseline 4, Sample preparation Receive sufficient sample from field prepare. About 50g of soil sample passing the 0.425(No.40) sieve from natural soil and place the prepared sample in the mixing dish or cup. 4827 SHRINKAGE TESTS ot Avoid trapping air here Prong plote— immersion cup soll pat evaporating. displaced isn mercury Fig 227 Immersion of sample n shrinkage line tes 1B) Formina enit ane 494. Procedure 41 4.2 Place the prepared soil sample in an evaporating dish and thoroughly mix with distilled water to make into a readily workable plate. Air bubbles must not be included. The moisture content should be somewhat greater than the liquid limit. The consistency should be such as to require about 10 blows of the Casagrande liquid limit apparatus to close the groove or to give about 25-28mm penetration of the cone penetrometer. Add the mixed soil paste to the shrinkage dish so as to fill it about one-third. Avoid trapping of air. Tap the dish on the smooth surface bench surface to cause the soil to flow to the edges of the dish. This should also release any small air bubbles present. The bench should be padded with a few layers of blotting paper or similar material, Add a second amount of soil, about the same as the first and repeat the tapping operation until all entrapped air has been released. Add more soil and continue tapping, so that the dish is completely filled with excess standing out. Strike off the excess with a straight edge and clean off adhering soil from the outside. Immediately after the above, weigh the sample (soil) and dish to 0.01g. Record as m, Drying Allow the sample in the dish to dry in the air for at least 12 hours or 24 hours until its color changes from dark to light. Place it in oven at 60°c for 6 hours and continue at 105 - 110% and dry to constant mass. If the shrinkage curve during drying is required, make a series of volume measurement at suitable intervals before drying in the oven. Leave the soil in the shrinkage dish exposed to warm air, and when it has shrunk away from the dish and can be 5043 44 5.5. safely handled, determine its volume and mass. Place the soil- Pat on a flat surface to dry further and repeat the measurements until the color changes from dark to light. Then dry in the oven. Weighing Dry Mass Cool in a dessicatoor or in air and weigh the dry soil and dish or container to 0.01g. Record as my. Measurement of Volume Remove the dried soil-pat carefully from the shrinkage dish. It should be intact and be kept long enough to dry in air before transferring to the oven. Place the glass cup in a clean evaporating dish standing on the large tray. Fill the cup to overflowing with mercury, and remove the excess by pressing the glass prong plate firmly on top of the cup. Avoid trapping air under the glass plate. Carefully remove the prong plate, and brush off any mercury drops adhering to the glass cup. Place the cup into another lean evaporating dish without spilling any mercury. Place the soil- pat on the surface of the mercury press the three prongs of the prong plate carefully on the sample so as to force it under the mercury Fig.... Avoid trapping any air; press the plate firmly on to the dish. Displaced mercury will be filled in the evaporating dish. Brush off any droplets of mercury adhering to the cup into the dish. Transfer all the displaced mercury to the measuring cylinder and record its volume (V,). This is equal to the volume of the dry soil-pat. Measure the dish volume and weight. Clean and dry the shrinkage dish and weigh it to 0.01g (m3). Its internal volume is determined by measuring the volume of mercury held. Place the dish in on evaporating dish and fill it to overflowing with mercury. The evaporating dish will catch the overflow. Place the small glass plate firmly over the top of the shrinkage dish so that excess mercury is displaced, but avoid trapping any air. Remove the glass plate carefully and transfer the mercury to the sl46 25ml-measuring cylinder. Record the volume of mercury in ml, which is the volume of the shrinkage dish (V,). Calculations Calculate the moisture content of the initial wet soil-pat, wi from the equation. Moisture content (w;)= (Mj-Mg) x 100 Ma Dish No. A B Cc Wi of dish +wet soil (m) Wtof dish + dry soil_(m) Wt of dish (ms) We of water (my-ma) (ma) Wt of wet oil (mj-ms) (me) Volume of dish (V,) Volume of dry soil (V3) Volume Change (V;-V2) (V3) Shrinkage limit (w,) can then be calculated from the equation, Moisture content (w.)= (tmy-ma) x 100 ms(m)-m3) where V; = volume of wet soil (dish) ‘olume of dry soil-pat ms= mass (wt) of dry soil The shrinkage ratio, R,, can be calculated from 82SABA Engineering plc. P.O, Box 62668 Addis Ababa , Ethiopia [email protected] Tel 34 1065/341617/343004 Fax. 341230) 941617 IKAGE LIMIT TEST TRI Lab. No. Dish No. A B c ‘A. Wt. of dish and wet soil 48 415 48.2 B. Wt. of dish and dry soil 36 35.8 36 C. Wt. of dish 10 9 10 D. Wt. of water (A-B) 12 7 12.2 E. Wt. of dry soil (B-C) 26 25 26 F. Volume of dish 13 10.8 13 G. Volume of displaced mercury 8 64 8 H. Volume change cc (F-G) 5 5 5 I D-H 7 6.7 72 Shrinkage Limit (I/E) X100 26.9 26.8 21.7 Shrinkage Ration (E/G) 3.25 3.91 3.25 53b. Linear Shrinkage Definition:- | This test gives the percentage linear shrinkage of a soil. It can be used for soils of low plasticity, including silts, as well as for clays. 1. Apparatus | 1 Non-corrodible metal mould (Brass), 140mm long and 25mm in diameter 1,2. Flat glass plate as for the liquid limit test 1.3 Palette knives | 14 Petroleum jelly | 1.5. Vernier calipers 1.6 Moisture content apparatus 2. Procedure 2.1 Preparation of mould:- Clean and dry the mould. Apply a thin film of vaseline or petroleum jelly to the inner surfaces to prevent soil from sticking. eee iv Preparation of Sample About 200g of soil sample passing 0.425mm (No.40) sieve is Prepared from soil. This proportion of the original sample passing the 0.425mm (No. 40) sieve is recorded. Place the soil in the mixing dish and mix thoroughly with distilled water, as the liquid limit test. Continue mixing until it becomes a smooth homogeneous paste at about the liquid limit. This is not critical, but it may be checked by using the cone penetrometer, which should give a penetration of about 20mm. 3427 SHRINKAGE TESTS Fig. 229° Linear shrinkage apparatus 552. 2. 2. 3. Place the paste in the mould, avoiding the trapping of air as far as possible, so that the mould is slightly over filled. Tap it gently on the bench to remove any air pockets. Level (trim) off along the top edge of the mould with a spatula or straight edge. Wipe off any soil adhering to the rim of the mould. 4 Leave the mould and soil exposed to the air but in a draught free position so that the soil can dry slowly. When the soil has shrunk away from the walls of the mould, it can be transferred to an oven set at 60°c. When shrinkage” has virtually ceased, increase the drying temperature to 105- 110°c to complete the drying. wu Allow the mould and soil to cool in a dessicator, measure the length of the bar of soil with the caliper, making two or three readings and taking the average (Lp). If the specimen is curved during drying, remove it carefully from the mould and measure the lengths of the top and bottom surfaces. Take the mean of these two lengths as the dry length as (Lp). If the specimen has fractured in one place, the two portions can be fitted together before measuring the length. If it has cracked badly, and the length is difficult to measure, repeat the test using a very slower drying rate leaving the sample and mould longer in air (about more than 24 hours) before transferring to the oven. Calculation Calculate the linear shrinkage (Ls) as a percentage of the original length of the specimen from the equation, LS = (1-Lp) x100 Lo where : Lo = original length of the mould Lp = length of dry specimen 56re Linear Shrinkage Limit Inician Length (Lo) - wet Final Length (Ld) - Dry SL = Lo-Ld x 100 LDResults The linear shrinkage of the soil is reported to the nearest whole number. 38AMOUNT OF MATERIAL .R THAN NO. 200 SIEVE IN AGGREGATE AASHOT DESIGNATION T - 11 1. Scope This method of test covers a procedure for the determination of the quantity of aggregate finer than a standard No. 200 sieve by washing. This procedure may not determine the total amount of material finer than the No. 200 sieve. Such a determination may be made by combining washing and dry sieving as required in the sieve analysis of fine and coarse aggregate. 2. Apparatus 1.1 Seives — No. 16 and No. 200 sieves. The sieves shall be of woven wire — cloth construction, conforming to the requirements of AASHTO Designation M — 92. 1.2 Container ~ a pan or vessel of a size sufficient to contain the sample, when covered with water, and to permit vigorous agitation without inadvertent loss of any art of the sample or water. 1,3 Balance ~ A balance with a capacity of 2000gm and sensitive to 0.1gm. 1.4 Scale — A heavy duty scale with a capacity of at least 50 1b and sensitive to 0.1 1b. 1.5 Drying Oven —an oven capable of maintaining a uniform temperature of 230 + 9°F. 2. Test Sample The test sample shall be selected from material which has been thoroughly mixed and which contains sufficient moisture to prevent segregation. Representative samples shall weigh, after drying, not less than the amount indicated in the following table. 5960Maximum Sieve Size Minimum Sample Weight No.4 500gm 3/8 inch 1000gm inch 2500gm 1% inch or over 5000gm 3. Test Procedures 3.1 Dry the test sample to constant weight (+ 16 hours) at a temperature of 230 + 9°F, and weigh the sample to the nearest 0.1 percent. 3.2 Place the sample in a suitable container, and cover the sample with water. Agitate the contents of the container by vigorous stirring with a large spoon or rod, and pour the wash water over the nested sieves, arranged with the No. 200 sieve on the bottom. The agitation should be sufficiently vigorous so that all particles finer than the No. 200 sieve are brought into suspension and are subsequently washed through the nested sieve. Be careful to avoid loss of the coarser particles. Repeat this washing operation until the wash water is clear. 3.3 If the material consists of clay, it may be advantageous to let is soak 16 to 20 hours and to add a detergent to assist deflocculation. 3.4 In the case of soil samples, it is often advantageous to separate the sample on the No. 4 sieve. The material retained on the No. 4 sieve. The material retained on the No. 4 sieve shall be washed as outlined above. The material passing the No. 4 sieve may be washed as outlined above or by means of a suitable mechanical washing device. 3.5 Return all material retained on the nested sieves to the washed sample. Dry the sample to constant weight (+16 hours) at a temperature of 230 + 9°F, and weight the sample to the nearest 0.1 percent. Pan ~ drying shall be permissible when oven ~ drying is impracticable or impossible. However, in no case shall a sample be heated in excess of 239°F, 4, Calculation The percentage of material finer than the No. 200 sieve shall be calculated as follows: 61F=W-W1X 100 Ww Where F = the percent of material finer then the No. 200 sieve. W = the original dry weight of the sample WI the dry weight of the sample after washing. 5. Precautions 5.1 The No. 200 sieve is extremely delicate, and should be handled accordingly. In no event should wire brushes be used on this sieve. 5.2 Take care to avoid loss of sample material during washing and during transfer of material from the nested sieves to the washed sample. Standard Method of Mechanical Analysis of Soils AASHTO DESIGNATION T88 - 57 1. Scope 1.1 This method describes a procedure for the quantitative determination of the distribution of particles size in soils. 2. Apparatus 2.1. The apparatus shall consist of the following: 2.1.1 Balance — A balance sensitive to 0.1gm for weighing small samples; for large samples, the balance is to be sensitive to within 0.1 percent of the weight of the sample to be tested. 2.1.2 Stirring apparatus — a mechanically operated stirring apparatus consisting of an electric motor suitability mounted to turn a vertical shaft at a speed not less than 10,000 revolutions per minute without load, a replaceable stirring paddle made of metal, plastic or hard rubber similar to the design shown in Figure 1, and a dispersion scup conforming to either of the designs shown in Figure 2. (Alternate b) Dispersing Device — An air ~ jet type dispersing device similar to either of the designs shown in figure 3. 622.1.3 Hydrometer — A hydrometer of the exact size and shape shown in Figure 4, the body of which has been blown in a mold to assure duplication of all dimensions, and equipped with either scale a or scale B. scale A shall be graduated form —5 to +60 gm of soil per liter, and hydrometers equipped with this scale shall be identified as 152H. It shall be calibrated on the assumption that distilled water has a specific gravity of 1.000 at 68°F and that the soil in suspension has a specific gravity of 2.65. Scale B shall be graduated from 0.995 to 1.038 specific gravity and calibrated to read 1.000 in distilled water at 68°F (20°). Hydrometers equipped with this scale shall be identified as 151H. 2.14 A glass graduate 18 inches in height, 2’ inches in diameter, and graduated for a volume 1000ml. 2.1.5 Thermometer — A Fahrenheit thermometer accurate to 1°F (0.5°c). 2.1.6 Sieve — A series of sieves of square mesh woven wire cloth, conforming to the requirements of standard specifications for sieves for Testing purposes (AASHTO Designation: M92). The sieves required are as follows: 2 inch sieve 1 % inch sieve 1 inch sieve % inch sieve 3/8 inch sieve No. 4 sieve No. 10 sieve No. 40 sieve No. 200 sieve 2.1.7 Water Bath or Constant Temperature Room A water bath or constant temperature room for maintaining the soil suspension at a constant temperature during the hydrometer analysis. A satisfactory water bath is an insulated thank which maintains the suspension at a convenient constant temperature as near 68°F (20.0°c0 as the room and faucet water temperature will permit. Such a device is illustrated in Figure 5. In cases where the work is performed in a room at an automatically controlled constant temperature, the water bath is not necessary and subsequent reference to a constant temperature bat shall be interpreted as meaning either a water bath or a constant temperature room. 632.1.8 Beaker ~ A beaker of 250 ml Capacity 3. Sample The sample required for this test shall include all of the material on the No. 10 (2,000 micron) sieve, plus a 60 or 110gm representative portion of the fraction passing the No. 10 sieve, the larger quantity being required only when this fraction is very sandy. These samples shall be obtained in accordance with the Standard method of Dry Preparation of Disturbed Soil Samples Test (AASHTO DESIGNATION: T87), or the Standard Method of Wet Preparation of Disturbed Soil Samples for test (AASHTO DESIGNATION: T146). 4, Sieve Analysis of Fraction Retained on No. 10 sieve 4.1 The portion of the sample retained on the No. 10 sieve shall be separated into a series of sizes by the use of the 2 inch, 1 ‘1 Y2- inch, 1 inch, % - inch, 3/8 ~ inch, and the No. 4 sieve. 4.2 The sieving operation shall be conducted by means of a lateral and vertical, accompanied by jarring action so as to keep the sample moving continuously over the surface of the sieve. In no case shall fragments in the sample be turned or manipulated through the sieve by hand. Sieving shall be continued until not more than 1 percent by weight of the residue passes any sieve during 1 minute when sieving machines are used, their thoroughness of sieving shall be tested by comparison with hand methods of sieving as above described. 4.3 The portion of the sample retained on each sieve shall be weighed and the weight recorded although it shall be permissible to record the accumulated weights as the contents of each successive sieve is added to the fractions previously deposited on the scales pan.HYDROMETER AND SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FRACTION PASSING. THE NO. 10 SIEVE 5. Hygroscopic Moisture A 10 gm portion of the fraction of the sample passing the No. 10 sieve shall be used for the determination of the hygroscopic moisture. The portion of the sample shall be weighed, dried to constant weight in an oven at 110°c (230°F), weighed, and the results recorded. 6. Dispersion of Soil Sample Approximately 50 grams of most soil or 100 grams of very sandy soils shall be taken from the fraction passing the No. 10 sieve by use of a riffle sampler, weighed, placed in a 250ml, breaker, covered wit 125ml of stock solution of the selected dispersing agent, stirred thoroughly with a glass rod, and allowed to soak for a minimum of 12 hours. Any of the four dispersing agents listed in Table | may be used. The stock solution shall be prepared by dissolving the quantity of the salt given in the table in sufficient distilled water to make a liter of solution. After soaking, the contents of the beaker shall be washed into one of the dispersion cups shown in Figure 2, distilled water added until the cup is more than half full, and the contents dispersed for a period of 1 minute in the mechanical stirring apparatus. 7. Alternate Method For Dispersion 7.1. The representative soil sample shall be weighed and placed in a 250ml beaker, covered with 125ml of the stock solution of the selected dispersing agent specified in section 6, and allowed to soak for a minimum of 12 hours. 7.2. The air jet dispersion apparatus shall be assembled as shown in fig 3 without the cover cap in place. The needle value controlling the fine pressure shall be opened until the pressure gauge indicates one pound per square inch air pressure. The initial air pressure is required to prevent the soil water mixture from entering the air — jet chamber when the mixture is transferred to the dispersion cup. After the apparatus is adjusted, the soil water mixture shall be transferred from the beaker to 6518 SFDIMENTATION PROCEDURES 6673 14 the dispersion cup, using a wash bottle to assist in the transfer operation. The volume of the soil — water mixture in the dispersion cup shall not exceed 250ml. The cover containing the baffle plate shall be placed upon the dispersion cup and the needle value opened until the pressure gauge reads 20 pounds per square inch. The soil — water mixture shall be dispersed for 5, 10 or 15 minutes depending upon the plasticity index of the soil. Soils with a PI of 5 or less shall be dispersed from 5 minutes; soils with a PI between 6 and 20 for 10 minutes; and soils with a PI greater than 20 for 15 minutes. Soils containing large percentages of mica need be dispersed for 1 minute only. After the dispersion period is completed, the needle value shall be closed until the pressures gauge indicates one po9und per square inch. The cover shall be removed and all adhering soil particles washed back into the dispersion cup. ‘The soil — water suspension shall then the washed into the 1000 ml glass graduate and the needle value closed. 8. Hydrometer Test 8.1 8.2 After dispersion, the mixture shall be transferred to the glass graduate and distilled water having the same temperature as the constant temperature bath added until the mixture attains a volume of 1000ml. The graduate containing the soil suspension shall then be placed in the constant temperature bat. When the soil suspension attains the temperature of the bath, the graduate shall be removed and its contents thoroughly shaken for 1 minute, the palm of the hand being used as a stopper over the mouth of the graduate. ‘At the conclusion of this shaking, the time shall be recorded, the graduate placed in the bat, and readings taken with the hydrometer at the end of 2 minutes. The hydrometer shall be read at the top of the meniscus formed by the suspension around its stem. If hydrometer with scale A is used, it shall be read to the nearest 0.5gm/liter. Scale B shall be read to the nearest 0.0005 specific gravity. Subsequent readings shall be taken at intervals of 5, 15, 30, 60, 250, and 1440 minutes after the beginning of sedimentation. Readings of the thermometer placed in the soil suspension shall be made immediately following each hydrometer reading and recorded. 67: PARTICLE SIZE 4 — ae tength calibration tength ony 380mm ot 20°C Fig. 436. Soll hydrometer i 688. SFDIMENTATION PROCEDURES 08.3 After each reading the hydrometer shall be very carefully removed from the soil suspension and placed with a spinning motion in a graduate of clean water. About 25 or 30 seconds before the time for a reading, it shall be taken for a clean water, and slowly immersed in the soil suspension to assure that it comes to rest before the appointed reading time. 9. Sieve Analysis At the conclusion of the final reading of the hydrometer, the suspension shall be washed on a No. 200 (74 micron) sieve. That fraction retained on the No. 200 sieve shall be dried and a sieve analysis made, using the following sieves: No. 40, No. 60 and No. 200. CALCULATIONS 10.Percentage of Hygroscopic Moisture The hygroscopic moisture shall be expressed as a percentage of the weight of the oven — dried soil and shall be determined as follows: Percentage of hygroscopic moisture = W—W1 X 100 wi Where W =weight of air dried soil, and WI = weight of oven — dried soil To correct the weight of the air ~ dried sample for hygroscopic moisture, the given value shall be multiplied by the expression, 100 00 + percentase oF ha 100 + percentage of hygroscopic moisture 11.Coarse Material 11.1 The percentage of coarse material shall be calculated from the weight of the fractions recorded during the sieving of the material retained on the No. 10 sieve, in accordance with section 4, and the total weights recorded during the preparation of the sample, in accordance with the 70Standard Method of Dry Preparation of Disturbed Samples for Tests (AASHTO DESIGNATION: 87). 11.2 The percentage of coarse material retained on the No. 10 sieve shall be calculated as follows: From the weight of the air — dried total sample, subtract the weight of the air — dried total sample, subtract the weight of the oven — dried fraction retained on the No. 10 sieve. The difference is assumed to equal the weight of the air dried fraction passing the No. 10 sieve (Note 1). NOTE 1: According to this assumption no hygroscopic moisture is contained in the air — dried particles retained on the No. 10 sieve, when as a matter of fact a small percentage of moisture may be present in this fraction. This amount of moisture, compared with that held in the pores of the fraction passing the No. 10 sieve is relatively small. Therefore, any error produced by the assumption as stated may be considered negligible in amount. The weight of the fraction passing the No. 10 sieve shall be corrected for hygroscopic moisture as indicated in section 10, To this value shall be added the weight of the oven — dried fraction retained on the No. 10 sieve to obtain the weight of the total test sample corrected for hygroscopic moisture. The fractions retained on the No. 10 and coarser sieves shall be expressed as percentages of this corrected weight. 12.Percentage of Soil in Suspension 12.1 Hydrometer readings made at temperatures other than 68°F shall be corrected by applying the appropriate composite correction from one of the following tables. Tables 151H and 152H list composite correction for hydrometer 151H and 152H to account for the different dispersing agents, temperature variations from 68°F, (20.0°c), and height of meniscus on the stem of hydrometer. 12.2 The percentage of the dispersed soil is suspension represented by different corrected hydrometer readings depends upon both the amount and the specific gravity of the soil dispersed. The percentage of dispersed soil remaining in suspension shall be calculated as follows: For hydrometer 152H, P = Ra X 100 Ww nmim "| in aE aE erin oon rg te eee pat na ni Sie ce | sah —197—For hydrometer 151 H, P = 1606 (R—1)* X 100 Ww Where, P = Percentage of originally dispersed soil remaining in suspension R= Corrected hydrometer reading W = Weight in grams of soil originally dispersed minus the hygroscopic moisture, and a= Constant depending on the density of the suspension. For an assumed value of 6 for the specific gravity of the soil, and water density of 1.000 at 68°F (20.0°c), the value “a” may be obtained by the formula. A= 2.6500 ~ 1.000 X _ 1.6500 G.1.000 The value of “a”, given to two decimal places are shown in table 2. TABLE 2 — Values of a, for different specific gravities Specific Gravity, G Constant. a 2.95 0.94 2.85 0.96 2.75 0.98 2.65 1.00 2.55 1.02 2.45 1.05 2.35 1.08 Table 151H and 152H It is sufficiently accurate for ordinary tests to select the constant for the specific gravity nearest to that of the particular soil tested. 12.3 To convert the percentages of the soil in suspension to percentages of the total test sample including the fraction retained on the No. 10 sieve, the percentage of originally dispersed soil remaining in suspension shall be multiplied by the expression. 7413. 13.1 13.2 100 ~ percentage retained on No. 10 ieve 100 Diameter of soil particles in suspension The maximum diameter, d, of the particles in suspension, corresponding to the Percentage indicated by a given hydrometer reading, shall be calculated by the use of stockes' law, According to stockes law: d= y__30nt 980(G-G,)? Where d= maximum grain diameter in millimeters N = Coefficient of viscosity of the suspending medium (in the case water) in poises varies with changes in temperature of the suspending medium [= distance in em through which soil particles settle in a given period of time. T = time in minutes, period of sedimentation G = specific gravity of soil particles and Gl = specific gravity of the suspending medium (approximately 1.0 for water) The maximum grain diameter in suspension for assumed conditions and corresponding to the periods of sedimentation specified in this procedure are Biven in Table 3. These grain diameters shall be corrected for the conditions of ‘est applying the proper correction factors as described and explained below. Table 3: Maximum Grain Diameter in Suspension Under Assumed Conditions Time (Min.) Max Grain Diameter (Mm) Time (Min) “Max Grain Diameter (Mm) 0.040 5 0.026 15 0.015 30 0.010 60 0.0074 250 0.0036 1440 100015 1513.3 13.5 14.1 14.2 The grain diameters given in Table 3 are calculated according to the following assumptions: L, the distance through which the Particles fall is constant and equal to 17.5Sem n, the coefficient of viscosity equals 0.01005 poise, that of water at 68°F. G, the specific gravity of the soil is constant and equal to 2.65. Figure 6 The grain diameter corrected for other than the assumed conditions shall be obtained by the formula. D = d XK, XKgXK, Where in d= corrected grain diameter in mm. d' = grain diameter obtained from table 2 KL = correction factor obtained from figure 6. When the hydrometer reading not adjusted for composite correction is used for the ordinate reading. K, = correction factor obtained from figure 7A. Ky = correction factor obtained from figure 7B. The coefficient Kg and Ka are independent of the shape and position of the hydrometer and are as shown in Figures 7A and 7B. Figure 7A and 7B Fine Sieve Analysis The percentage of the dispersed soil sample retained on each of the sieves in the sieve analysis of the material washed on the No, 200 shall be obtained by dividing the weight of fraction retained on each sieve by the over-dry weight of the dispersed soil and multiplying by 100. The percentage of the total test sample, including the fraction retained on the No.10 (2000 microns) sieve, shall be obtained by multiplying these values by the expression, 100 minus the percentage retained on No.10 ie 100 16OP seu a! roROUETER mEAcING Fa, 6.—Correction Factor Ke, AGS The coeficients Kg and Ky are inde Pendent of the shape and postion of the hydrometer ‘nd areas shown in Figures 9A and Jo. 7i TEMPERATURE OF SUSPENSION = DEGREES FANRENWEIT [ 3 80100 RO CORRECTION COEFFICIENT, Hy. FOR Vamiarion im viscosity OF ‘Wuseenoine MEOIUM ze Fic. 1—Grain Diameter Correction Curves for Variation in Specific Gravity "of Soil and in Viscosity of Suspending Medium 816. 16.2 Plotting The accumulated percentages of grains of different diameters shall be plotted on semi logarithmic paper to obtain a "grain size accumulation curve," such as that shown in figure 8. Figure & Report The results, read from the accumulation curve, shall be reported as follows: a) Particles larger than 2mm Percent b) Coarse sand, 2.0 to 0.42mm Percent c) Fine sand, 0.42 to 0.074mm Percent d) Silt, 0.074 to 0.005mm_ Percent e) Clay, smaller than 0.005mm Percent f) Colloids, smaller than 0.001mm Percent The results complete mechanical analyses furnished by the combined sieve and hydrometer analysis shall be reported as follows. SIEVE ANALYSIS Sieve Size Percent Passing 2 inch 1% inch 1 inch % inch 3/8 inch No4 No.10 No.40 No.200HYDROMETER ANALYSIS ‘Smaller than Percent 0.02mm 0.005mm 0.001mm For materials examined for any particular type of work or purpose, only such fractions shall be reported as are included in the specification or other requirements for the work or purpose. 80SABA Engineering plc. P.0. Box 62668 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Tel. 34 1065/241617 /343004 Fax. 2441230/ 241617 [email protected] Mechanical Analysis 1. Sieve Analysis Sieve Site Weight - (mm) — | retained gm | % Retained | % Passing 75 - 2. Hygroscopic Moisture a) Wt of wet sample = 50 b) Wt of dry sample= 48 ©) % dry sample b/a x 100 = 96 Coputed dry Wt. cxa = 48gm 100 3. Sample Pass 2mm 5 Weight Sieve Rea %Retain | % Passing 0.425 10 20.83 15.0 0.250 8 16.7 12 0.075 6 125 95 814. Hydrometer (152H) - Pensa] sstrt2=] rome] toon Poumen] Comen Diametor time a Reading | oFioc | mm | Reading 680F mm “ 70 [2 | | oa |” 208 | ep | 25 | 7 | oos6| tes | 7a 0.02 | 2 | 7 | oowe| 165 —_ } | 9% | 2% | Too “37 a 60 | “7 — a 0.00692 | 407 | | 250 | 45 | 7 loose) ___|{ 0 | a2 | 7 {ooomal 55 | 22 | 0001 5. Report A B 1. Particles larger than 4.75mm_ 16% b. ['Smatter than |% passing | 2. Coarse sand 4.75-0.425mm_ 10% 0.02mm 7.2 | 3. Fine sand 0.425 -0.075mm 5% | 0.005mm 42 4. Silt 0.075 - 0.002mm_ 6.50% “0. 001mm - a 22 7 5. Clay smalller than 0.002mm 2.50% 82PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION CURVE 50.0 % PASS. 40.0 30.0 20.0 + 10.0 ‘ bo. i = i - 0.0 0.001 9.992mm 0.010 9-078mm 4.499 0.425mm 7.900 4.75mm 10,000 100.000 PARTICLE SIZE IN mm 83EE EEE 9” 3.5 STANDARD METHOD OF TEST FOR SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF SOILS AASHTO DESIGNATION: T 100 ~75 (1982) (ASTM DESIGNATION: 854 - 58 (1972)) / 1. Scope 1.1 This method of test is intended for determining the specific gravity of soils by means of a pyéhometer. When the soil is composed of particles larger than the 4.75mm (No. 4) sieve, the method outlined in the Standard Method of Test for Specific Gravity and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate (AASHTO T 85) shall be followed. When the soil is composed of particles both larger and smaller than the 4.75mm sieve, the sample shall be separated on the 4.75mm sieve and the appropriate method of test used on each portion. The specific gravity value for the soil shall be the weighted average of the two values. When the specific gravity value is to be used in calculations in connection with the hydrometer portion of the Standard Method of Mechanical Analysis of Soils (AASHTO 88) it is intended that the specific gravity test be made on that portion of the soil which passes the 2.00mm (No. 10) or 0.425mm(No. 40) sieve, as appropriate. 2. DEFINITION 2.1 Specific Gravity ~ Specific gravity is the ration of the mass in air of a given volume of a material at a stated temperature to the mass in air of an equal volume of distilled water at a stated temperature. 3. APPARATUS 3.1 The apparatus shall consist of the following: 3.1.1 Pychditieter — Bither a volumetric flask having a capacity of at least 100 ml or a stappered bottle having a capacity of at least 50ml (Note 1). The stopper shall be of the same material as the bottle, and of such size and shape that it can be easily inserted to a fixed depth in the neck of the bottle, and shall have a small hole through its center to permit the emission of air and surplus water. 84Note 1 - The use of either the volumetric flask or the stappered bottle is a matter of individual preference, but in general, the flask should be used when a larger sample that can be used in the stappered bottle is needed due to maximum grain size of the sample. 3.1.2 Balance — Either a balance sensitive to 0.01g for use with the volumetric flask, or a balance sensitive to 0.001g for use with the stappered bottle. 3.1.3 Dessicator — A desicator, about 8 in. (approximately 200mm) in diameter containing anhydrous sillca gel or other suitable desiccant. 3.1.4 Oven — A thermostatically controlled drying over capable of maintaining a temperature of 110 + 5c (230 + 9°F). 3.1.5 Thermometer ~ A thermometer covering the range of 0 - 50°c (32 - 122°F), readable and accurate to 1°c (2°F). 4. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR WEIGHING 4.1 When the volumetric flask is used in the specific gravity determination all masses shall be determined to the nearest 0.01g. When the stappered bottle is used in the specific gravity determination all masses shall be determined to the nearest 0.001g. 5. CALIBRATION OF PYCNOMETER 5.1 The pycnometer shall be cleaned, dried, weighed, and the mass recorded. The pycnometer shall be filled with distilled water (Note 2) essentially at room temperature. The mass of the pycnometer and water, Wa, shall be determined and recorded. A thermometer shall be inserted in the water and its temperature Ti determined to the nearest whole degree. NOTE 2 ~ Kerosene is a better wetting agent than water for most soils and may be used in place of distilled water for oven — dried samples. 5.2 From the mass W1 determined at the observed temperature Ti a table of vales of masses Wa shall be prepared for a series of temperatures that are likely to prevail when masses Wb are determined later (Note 3). These values of Wa shall be calculated as follows: 85Wa (at Tx) = density of water at Tx. X (Wa (at Ti)— Wf) + WE Density of water at Ti Wa = mass of pycnometer and water, in grams Wf = mass of pycnometer, in grams Ti = observed temperature of water, in degrees Celsius, and Tx = any other desired temperature, in degrees Celsius. NOTE 3 — The method provides a procedure that is most convenient for laboratories making many determinations with the same pycnometer. If no equally applicable to a single determination. Bringing the pycnometer and contents to some designated temperature when masses Wa and Wb are taken, requires considerable time. It is much more convenient to prepare a table of masses Wa for various temperatures likely to prevail when masses Wb are taken. It is important that masses Wa and Wb be based on water at the same temperature. Values for the relative density of water at temperatures form 18 to 30°c are given in table 1. 6. SAMPLE 6.1 The soil to be used in the specific gravity test may contain its natural moisture or be oven — dried. The mass of the test sample on an oven — dry basis shall be at least 25g when the volumetric flask is to be used, and at least 10g when the stappered bottle is to be used. 6.2 Samples containing natural moisture — When the sample contains its natural moisture, the mass of the soil, Wo, on an oven — dry basis shall be determined at the end of the test by evaporating the water in an oven maintained at 110 + 5°c (230 + 9°F) (Note 4). Samples of clay soils containing their natural moisture content shall be dispersed in distilled water before placing in the flask, using the dispersing equipment specified in AASHTO T 88. 6.3 Oven ~ Dried Samples — When an oven — dried sample is to be used, the sample shall be dried for at least 12h, or to constant mass Vo + 5°c (230 49°F) (Note 4), transferred to pycnometer and weighed. The sample shall then be soaked in distilled water for at least 12h. NOTE 4 ~ Drying of certain soils at 110° may bring about loss of moisture of composition or hydration, and in such cases drying shall be done, if desired, in reduced air pressure and at a lower temperature, 867. PROCEDURE 7.1 The sample containing natural moisture shall be placed in the Pycnometer, care being taken not to lose any of the soil in case the mass of the sample has been determined. Distilled water shall be added to fill the volumetric flask about three — fourths full on the stappered bottle about half full. 7.2 Entrapped air shall be removed by either of the following methods: 2. By subjecting the contents to a partial vaccum (air pressure not exeeding 100mm of mercury) or 3. By boiling gently for at least 10 min. while occasionally rolling the Ppycnometer to assist in the removal of the air. Subjection of the contents to reduced air pressure may be done either by connecting the pycnometer directly to an aspiration or vaccum pump, or by use of a bell jar. Some soils boil violently when subjected to reduced air pressure. It will be necessary in those cases to reduce the air pressure at a slower rate or to use a larger flask samples that are heated shall be cooled to room temperature. 7.3 The pychometer shall then be filled with distilled water and the outside cleaned and dried with a clean dry cloth. The mass of the pycnometer and contents, Wb, and the temperature in degrees Celsius, Tx, of the contents shall be determined, as described in section 4. (Note 5) NOTE 5 — The minimum volume of slurry that can be prepared by dispersing equipment specified in AASHTO T88 is such that a 500ml flask is needed as pycnometer. 8. CALCULATION AND REPORT 8.1 The specific gravity of the soil, based on water at a temperature Tx, shall be calculated as follows: Specific Gravity, Tx/TxC = Wo WO + (Wa + Wb) Where Wa = mass of sample of oven — dry soil, in grams Wa = mass of pycnometer filled with water at temperature Tx (Note 6), in ‘grams 87Wb = mass of pycnometer filled with water and soil at temperature Tz, in grams and Tx = temperature of the contents of the pycnometer when weight Wb, was determined, in degrees Celsius. NOTE 6 — This value shall be taken from the table of values of Wa prepared in accordance with 5.1 for the temperature prevailing when mass Wb was taken, 8.2 Unless otherwise required, specific gravity values reported shall be based on water at 20°c. The value based on water at 20°c shall be calculated from the value based on water at the observed temperature Tx, as follows: Specific gravity, Tx/20°e = KX specific gravity, Tx/Tx°c, Where: K =a number found by dividing the relative density of water at temperature Tx by the relative density of water at 20°c. Values for a range of temperatures are given in Table 1. 8.3 When it is desired to report the specific gravity value based on water at 4°c, such a specific gravity value may be calculated by multiplying the specific gravity value at temperature Tx by the relative density of water at temperature Tx. 8.4 When any portion of the original sample of soil is eliminated in the preparation of the test sample, the portion of which the test has been made shall be reported. Table 1 Relative Density of water and conversion factor K for various temperatures Paes eenee eee are ert enon On EET Temperature, | Relative Density of _ | Correction Factor K °c Water _ 18 0.9986244 1,004 19 (0.9984347 1,0002 20 0,9982343 1.0000 _| 21 0.9980233 0.9998 2 0.9978019 0.9996 2B 0.975702 0.9993 24 0.9973286 0.9991 25 0.970770 0.9989 8826 0.9968156 0.9986 27 0.9965451 0.9983 28 0.9962652 0.9980 29 0.9956761 0.9977 30 0.9956780 0.9974 89Grav Bottle No. W1 - Weight of Bottle W2 - Weight of Sample W3 - Weight of bottle+sample+water V - Volume of bottle (W4+W2)-W3 GS - Specific Gravity _w2 M Ci lation of Soil 901 SECTION II Moisture — Density Relationship Theory Compaction (degree of compaction) Soil is the process where by soil particles are constrained to pack more closely together through a reduction in air voids. The object in compacting soil is to improve its Properties and in particular to increase its strength and bearing capacity reduce its compressibility and decrease its ability absorb water due to reduction in volume of voids. Development of test procedures by RR. proctor in 1933 in the USA in order to determine a satisfactory state of compaction for soils being used in the construction of roads ait ports and dams. The test made use of a hand rammer and a cylindrical mold with a volume of 1/30 cuff. At that time it was believed that the proctor test represented in the laboratory the state of compaction which could be reasonably achieved in the ficld. A laboratory test using increased energy of compaction was then necessary to reproduce these higher compacted densities, so a test was introduced which used a heavier rammer with the same mold. These procedure became known as the modified AASHTO T-180 test. DEFINITIONS of the following a, Compaction ~ The process of packing soil particles more closely together, usually by rolling, ramming or mechanical means, thus increasing the dry density of soil b. Moisture - Dry density relationship: The relationship between dry density and moisture content of a soil Optimum Moisture Content (OMQ):- The moisture content of a soil at which a specified amount of compaction will produce the max. dry density. d. Max. dry density:- the dry density optioned using a specified amount of compaction at the Opt.M.C. © Percentage air void (va): ~ the volume of air voids in a soil expressed as a percentage Saturation line (zero_air_voids line) ~ The line on a graph showing the dry density- moisture content relation ship for a soil compacting no air voids. 8, Relative compaction ( % ( compaction):- The percentage ratio of the dry density of the soils to its max compacted dry density determined by using a specified amount of compaction ( Lab max dry density and field dry density. el3A 3.2 b, Standard proctor:- light compaction, for light traffic road compaction by using 5.5. Ib rammer and 3 layer compaction, Modified proctor :- heavy compaction for heavy Load construction ( axle load ) compaction by using 101b rammer and 5 layer compaction. Compaction Process :- The solid soil particles are packed more closely together by mechanical means. This process must not be confused with consolidation, in which water is squeezed out under the action of a continuos static load. The air voids con not be eliminated altogether by compaction, but with proper control they can be reduced for a minimum. At low moisture content the soil grains are surrounded by a thin film of water, which tends to keep the grins a part even when compacted. The finer soil grains the more significant is this effect. If the moisture content is increased the addi water enables the grains to be more easily compacted together, some of the air is displaced and the dry density is increased. The addition of more water, up to a certain point, enables more air to be expelled during compaction. At that point the soil grains become as closely packed together as they can be (ie. the dry density is at the ‘maximum ) under the application of this compactive effort when the amount of water exceeds that required to achieve this condition, the excess water begins to push the particle apart or water takes more spaces, so that the dry density is reduced. At higher moisture contents little or no more air is displaced by compaction, and the resulting dry density continues to decrease. nal Sample preparation:-The method of preparation of test samples from the original (received from field ) soil sample depends up on. The largest size of stone (particles) present in the original sample. Whether or not the soil particles are susceptible to crushing during compaction is assessed by inspection, or by passing the soil through sieves in the gravel-size range the amount of coarse materials determines the size of mold to be used i.e, whether 4"or 6" dia mold should be used. If breakdown of particles results in a change in the soil characteristics, and it a single batch of soil is compacted several times that change will be progressive during the test. A separate - batch of susceptible soil is needed for each determination of compacted dry density, consequently a much larger sample is required. Cohesive soils should be broken down into small pieces before to be ready for compaction. Mass of sample for test:- The mass of sample to be prepared for the tests. For each determination with 4" dia mold about ( 2.5kg) for with 6" dia mold about 6kg. The amount of sample before riffling. If gravel more than 7Skg Gj If clay about 30-S0kgEZ For subsequent determination, adjust the moisture condition of the sample as follows To obtain a lower nvc allow the soil sample to partially air/dry do not allow the soil to dry more than necessary. Place the soil in an air tight container if it is not to be used immediately. For a cohesive soil, leave it in the container for a maturing period of at least 24 hours to allow for a uniform distribution of water in the sample, For multiple sample batches: subdivide the prepared sample to give $ or more representative specimens for test. Each specimen should be of about 2.5ke for 4" dia and 6kg for 6" dia mold. Stone content sample :- particles larger than 19.5mm which are removed before test may consist of gravel, fragments of rock and other hard material, and are collectively referred to bellow as stone. ‘The soil actually tested is called the matrix material (pass 19.5mm ) Four categories of soil are recognized, depending on the largest sizes of Particles remaining after initial preparation. These categories relate to the following test methods. Method A and B material retained on 4.75mm sieve is removed and no correction is Method A and B material retained on 4.75mm made, if the amount of retained material is 7% or more by mass. Method "c" i recommended instead. Method “C” coarse grained material passing on a 19mm sieve and removed retained material, and no correction is made. However if the amount of retained material is 10% ‘or more, Method " D" is recommended instead. Method "D" the amount of material retained on the 195mm sieve is from 10% to 30% the retained material on a 75mm sieve and discard the material retained on that 75mm sieve. Replace the material between 75mm sieve by an equal mass of similar material taken from an unused portion of the sample, passing 75mm sieve and retained on 4.75mm sieve mix in the replaced material thoroughly. Choice.2 If the % retained material on 19mm sieve is 10-30% Mass of sample for one batch = 6kg 6kg x30% =1.8 of retained on 4.75mm sieve and passing material on 19.Smm sieve is = 6-1.8 = 4.2kg. Mix the retained on 4.75 mm sieve and passing on 19mm sieve (4241.8) = 6kg. If the amount of material retained in the 19mm is more than 30% the test methods for the determination of density or compaction is not applicable. 93Mold for Compaction :- Method "A" and "C" the 4" dia compaction mold is used for method "D" the 6" dia compaction mold is used mas Method ", fine grained (102mm) dia mold material passing 4.75mm sieve Method B-6" (152mm) dia mold material passing 4.75mm sieve coarse grained Method C-4" (102mm) dia mold material passing 19mm sieve coarse grained Method D-6" (152mm) dia mold, material passing 19mm sieve coarse grained Compaction Effort:- the procedure used for various types of compaction are summarized below. A. Standard Proctor ~ Method ". Rammer weight 5.5Ib (2.5kg) Height (lift) of rammer 12" (30.8 em) No. of blows 25 Layers 3 this test is known as light compaction Method "B" or "D" Dia of mold 6" (2.5) Rammer weight 5.5 Ib (2.5 kg) Height (lift ) of rammer 12" No. of blows 56 Layer 3 B. Modi .d Proctor Method "A" or "C"= Diameter of mould weight of rammer Height (lift) of rammer No of blows Layer Method B or D = Diameter of mould weight of rammer Height (lift) of rammer = No of blows Layer ; = 4" = 10lb(4.5kg) = 18" = 25 = 5 4 10 Ib ( 4.5kg ) 18" 56 5 this test is known as heavy ‘compaction 94Summary Methods | Layer | N® of | wt of rammer Height | Yolume of blows Ib/kg Mold cuft A-c | 3 25 5.52.5 12 130 a-c | 5 25 10.0/4.5 18 130 B-D 3 56 5.5/2.5 12 113.13 L B-D 3 36 toras [is 113.13, The mechanical energy applied in each type of test in terms of the work done in operating the rammer is derived and compared below. A. Light compaction = rammer wt x lift of rammer_x No of blows x layer fammer wt x lift of rammer_x No of blow Volume of mold eg. (5.5. Ib x (12") x 25x3 = 1730 f°. ‘Compared with :- 5.5 1b x (12" ) x 56x3 = 1/13.13 f° B, Heavy compaction 10 Ib (18" ) x 25 x5 130 ft. 10 tb ( 18") x 56x5_ = 113-13 Apparatus : 1. mold 2. Rammer 3. Measuring cylinder 4. 19 and 4.75 mm sieves 5. Metal tay 6. Balance 7. Sample extruder (extracting ) 8. Trimming knif ( straightedge ) 9. Drying oven 10. Moisture tine ( can ) Test procedures 9.1 Check that mold, extension collar and base plate are clean and dry 95 9.2 Weigh the mold body to the nearest 1g sensitive balance96b Fig, 611 Sequence of blows using hand rammer AL 97Hemm dle extension ——+| sant LS Nowe ity mouté————ph)_ | 15mm die body fej oom dist 155 ye—three lugs tomm boseplate BE t ets 180 mm dia or 150mm square, Fig. 67 British Standard compaction mould wholes RAMMER mass =2'5kg £259 |-25mmdia 2mm rubber gasket comm ‘ia somm aia Fig. 68 Rammer for BS ‘ordinary compaction test STAwOALD 98‘smperedde asedaig (1) savas Iunago0¥d ~ 1 fener arm eaninbat swion 19410) | sdues pos wea ¢ i | i 1 ” , ) | + COMPACTION TESTS RAMMER Siomm| | total mass 4:5kg E50K9 pp25mm dia 2mm rubber ‘Gasket 50mm 60mm ad ia 710-616 Rammer for BS heaoy compaction test . D MO. 99wm ‘extenston———> soller sopmmdia ‘,__isemmdio 4 it ssemmd nl mould body |ro7 wre st Acts Base plate Fig.617 CBR mould screw type (BS) ‘extension +} push’ ONY mould body base plate. e) jee tis_—§_yj COMPACTION TESTS F 50 LP omm acthree tugs ss2mmdio three pins two twos. Jomm LZ IE 13mm 200mm ‘230mm dia or 200mm square Fig. 618 CBR mould, clamp type (BS)86 OTHER COMPACTION TESTS 10193 94 95 9.6 9.7 9.8 9.9 9.10 9 9.12 Measure its internal dia and height of the mold and calculate internal volume of the mold ( v ) V= UDH 4 Check that the lugs or clamps hold the extension and base plate securely to the mold and assemble them together Wipe with a slightly oily cloth on the internal surfaces Check the rammer to ensure that it falls freely through the correct height of drop, and that the lifting knob is secure. Place the assembled mold on a solid base (concrete floor) Prepare the sample as described in section 3 and weigh to provide the single sample of about 2.5kg or 6 kg and put in the mixing large tray and adjust the moisture content to desired starting value (add that calculated or estimated water) and mix thoroughly. Add loose sample to the mold and compact the sample by applying 25 or 56 blows of the rammer dropping from the controlled height and weight of 5:5Ib/12"H or 10Ib/18"H. make sure thatthe end of the tube is resting on the soil Surface, and does not catch on the edge of the mold, before releasing the rammer. The guide tube must be held vertically. Place the tube gently on the sample surface, the rammer does the compaction not the tube. If the correct amount of sample has been used, the compacted surface should be at about one-third of the height of the mold body that is about 7.7em for 4" dia and 9 em for 6" dia mold below the top of the mold body, or 127mm for the 4” dia. Mold and for 6" mold 142mm dia. below the top of the motd extension collar. If the level differs significantly from this remove the sample, break it up, mix it with the remainder of the prepared material and start this Stage again. After completed the 1" layer of compaction lightly scarify the surface of the compacted sample with the spatula or point of a knife, Place a second, equal layer of soil in the mold, and compact with 25 or 56 blows as before. Repeat with a third or up to 5" layer, which should then bring the compacted surface in the extension collar to not more than 6mm above the level of the mold body. If the soil level is higher than this, the result will be in accurate, so the sample should be removed, broken up and re. mixed, and the test repeated with slightly less soil in each layer. Carefully remove the extension collar. Cut away the excess sample and level Crim off) to the top of the mold. Any sample cavity resulting fom removal of small fragments at the surface should be filled with fine material, well pressed in and should be checked with the straight-edge. Weigh sample and mold immediately Remove the soil from mold by using sample extruder on jack. Break up the sample on the tray. 1021039.13 Moisture Content Determination - take representative sample in moisture tin or containers from the middle of the molded specimen, weigh immediately and put in the oven to dry. Note: Amount of sample for moisture content determination Ifit is clay or fine grained material not less than 100g and for coarse grained or gravel not less than 500g, 9.14 Thoroughly break up the remaining portion (material ) of the molded specimen and the remainder of the prepared sample on the mixing tray, by rubbing until it will pass through 19.5mm for coarse grained or 4.7mm for fine grained material as judged by eye, Add an increment of sufficient water, to increase the moisture content of the soil by 1 to 2% of water to 2.5kg for 4" dia mold or 6kg for 6" dia mold of soil, Note: for sandy and coarse grained soil about 1-% For clay or silty clay 2-4% of water to 2.5kg or kg of soil, Mix in the water thoroughly. 9.15 Repeat the above procedure (stages 8 to 9) for each increment of water added, continue this series of determination until there is either a decrease ot no change in the wet (bulk) unit weight or mass of sample and mold (after compaction). 9.16 Calculation 9.16.1 where: m; = weight of mold 9.16.2 9.16.3 9.16.4 bulk density (wet) , p =_M2—Mh, g/cc Vv m2 = weight of mold + sample Moisture content a. wt of wet sample + container b. wet of dry sample + container ©. wt of container moisture content, Wo = +100% (09%) Bulk Density (Wet), p = 2B gcc Where: M) = wt of mold M2= wt of mold + wet sample p*100 19 +100" Dry Density, py = glee 104ene a ee eo le ll le 9.17 Plot of Dry Density, o4, against the corresponding Moisture Content Draw a smooth curve through the points, voids may be plotted as well as certain the point of max dry density (MDD) on this curve, and read off the maximum dry density value, The MDD value may lie between two plotted points, but the peak should not be exaggerated when drawing the curve. Read off the corresponding moisture content, which is the optimum, moisture content (OMC). The curves for "0"or some points air Zero Air Void Line:- Va = _ywG, 1+wG, 105PROCTOR DENSITY TEST(MOISTURE DENSSITY RELATIONSHIP) STATION: Visual Description DEPTH: — 7 z z a 5 aia [aia ate am] aii | fb. Mos + wot sol) - 7025_| 7268 | 7592] Tea | 7788 fe, Wet sol (g) = b-a = 2013 | __3186 3480 ‘aria | _3676 a, Volume of mud. em 2ia [21a] 2126 2iza | 2124 Bulk density (g/em3)= cd 337 449 [1.64 475 | 173 Moisture content determination ian No. [es [Eto] 63 [bia] 7 | e716 fea [E21 [E20_ 08s Wet aol can). ——F saa} 95.5]"94 5] 96 1[ 98:7] 89.5] 972) 99.8) 133.8] 129.8 Dry soll + can) 88.8) 68.8] 81.5] 65.3] 622] 746] 796] 620[1040| $3.) Wi of can) [245| 259] 21.3] 268] 21.1, 200] 26.| 275] 2501 162] Moisture (a) = 106) 10.1] 130) 126] 165] 14|_ 17.0] 17.8] 258] 299 Dry sot 4.31 63.0] 60.2|-595| 61.1! 546] 532) $45] 78.1| 77.7 Moisture contant (9). w= (wo -wintwt -wa)xi00 |76,49| 16 03|21.59[21.54| 27:00] 27 29] 39,08|92.65| 98.16] 38.48 5: Moisture (%) _ 7626] 21.55] 2715 3287; 38.32 [Dry Density (g/cm) =(exioows 100) | 1.18 422 4.29 432 425 wy ew eH MD AT A wn ee ww ew omc,% : 325 MOD, gmicm? 1.32 108HY Siem oy ene 7-80 Wark Taran a Compaction Test Pia 615. Dry denty-moisar conten test results and graph 107SECTION Il (CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO (CBR) Definition :- CBR or bearing ration of the force required to penetrate a piston (plunger ) of 3inch’or 1936mm’cross section in to soil in a mold at a rate of Imnvmin to that required for similar penetration into a standard sample of compacted crushed rock or lime The ration is determined at penetrations of 2.5 ( 0.1") and Smm (0.2 ") value is used. Historical Development and Principle California Bearing Ratio (CBR ): The basic testing procedure employed in the determination of the California bearing ratio was developed by the California division of highways around 1930, and has since been adopted and modified by numerous states, the USA corps of engineers and many countries of the world in 1961 the American society for testing and materials adopted the modified as ASTM designation D 1883 . Bearing ratio of laboratory competed soils. ‘The CBR is a comparative measure of the shearing resistance of a soil.. This test consists of measuring the load required the course a plunger of standard size to penetrate a soil specimen at a specified ratio, The CBR is the PSI or MPa required to force a piston in to the soil, a certain depth expressed as percentage of the load, PSI, required to force the piston the same depth in to a standard sample of crushed rock, usually depths of 2.5mm_or Smm are used penetration loads for bearing value is known as the California bearing ratio which is generally abbreviated to CBR. This test method is intended to provide the relative bearing value or CBR, of sub- grade sub-base base course materials procedures are gives for Laboratory compacted specimens of swelling, non swelling and granular materials. Tests on Laboratory- Compacted specimens are performed usually to obtain information, which will be used for design purposes. The CBR value for a soil will depend upon its density, molding moisture content, and moisture content after soaking since the produce of laboratory compaction should closely represent the results of field compaction, The first two of these variables must be carefully controlled during the preparation of laboratory samples for testing, unless it can be ascertained that the soil being tested be affected by it in the field after construction. The CBR tests should be perfd#tRed on soaked samples.es LS ont ET a lo kl ll lll 5. If the soils or material is damp ( moist ) when received from field, dry it until it becomes friable under a trowel, drying may be in air or by oven dry not exceeding 60%, Thoroughly break up ageregations, being carefully to avoid reducing the natural size of the individual particles and passing the 19mm or 4.75mm sieve will be required . Replacement Ifthe material is granular ( method ‘D’ ), and passing the 19.5mm sieve and retained on the 4.7mm sieve. If all material passes a 19mm sieve, the entire gradation shall be used for preparing specimens for compaction without replacement or modification, If its mass, does not exceed 25% of the mass of the original sample, no correction is necessary for its removal. the mass retained is greater than 25%, it should be replaced by a similar mass if particles of between 4.75mm and 19mm sieve obtained from separate batch of similar sample. If there is material retained on the 19mm sieve the material retained on the 19mm sieve shall be removed replaced by an equal amount of sample passing 19mm sieve and retained on the 4.75mm sieve obtained by separation from portions of the sample not other wise used for testing, Examples Amount of ample received from field ‘M’ sample Quarter the M’ sample, If % Rt of the 19mm sieve is = 30% ‘mass of sample retained on the 19mm sieve ml mass of sample passed on the 19mm sieve m2 mass of sample retained on the 4.75mm, equal amount of ml sample = m3 amount of sample for one CBR mold = m2+m3 = m4 OR the assumed amount of sample for one CBR 7kg Amount of material Retained sieve 7x30% = 21kg Amount of material passed on the 19mm sieve 7-21 = 4.9kg. Total=2.1+4.9 = 7.00kg i1 Td Quarter the replaced or non replaced sample weigh and keep the representative sample at least 5.4kg 12Ib for fine grained ( silty clay ) soil and 6.4 to 7.7kg (14 to 17 Ib for granular sample. ‘Type of sample for test :- The sample may be compacted in to the mold under dynamically compacted in to it, at the required moisture content, either to a chive a specified density or by using a standard compactive effort Undisturbed sample may be taken on site in a CBR mold, either from natural ground or from recompacted material, such as in an embankment or road sub-base specimens may be tested in the mold either as prepared or after soaking in water for required days. 13 14 15 % 10, 11. 2. Force or pressure required to maintain a constant rate of penetration of CBR piston, in to the soil. Sub soil ;- soil bellow the sub-grade or fill Subgrade:- Natural soil or embankment construction prepared and compacted to support a pavement. Sub-base :- Layer of selected material of specified thickness in a pavement system between sub-grade and base course. Base course :- Layer of high grade crushed gravel or rock material of specified thickness constructed on the subbase to spread the load from the pavement and provide drainage. Pavement:- constructed layer of material of specified thickness, usually of select, gravel, asphalt and concrete materials, designed to carry wheeled vehicles. This covers roads and airfield or airports. Flexible pavement:- Pavement constructed by using gravel, crushed gravel or rock and Asphalt materials. Rigid pavement:- Pavement constructed of concrete. Surfacing :- Top most layer of the pavement construction, providing a durable surface and smooth riding, Basis of CBR test :- a constant rate of penetration shear test in which a std4@ard plunger (Pistons) is pushed in to the soil at a constant rate and the force required to‘maintain that rate is measured at suitable intervals. The road penetration relation ship is drown as a graph from which the loads corresponding to standard penetrations are read off and expressed as ratios of standard loads. The CBR value can be regarded as an indirect measure of the shear strength of the soil, but it can not be related directly to shear strength parameter. The only calculation necessary is to express the measured force for a certain penetration as a percentage of the standard force for the same penetration. CBR asured force X 100 % Standard force The standard force corresponding to penetrations reading from 0.64 to 12.7mm The forces shown in corresponding to penetrations of 2.5mm ( 0.1") and Smm ( 0.2") are those used in the standard calculations of CBR value. These are rounded equivalents to the original criteria for contact pressures under a piston ( plunger ) of 3? inch cross- section of 1000 PSI at 2.5mm penetration and 1500 PSI at 5.00mm in penetration respectively. These standard forces where based on tests on samples of compacted crashed rock or lime and by definition relate to CBR of 100% standard force penetration. Relationship for CBR test yenetration ressure | Finehimm. | free Itt Pig? Failure [0.1/2.5 | 3000713612 [100/703 | Soil [0.275 [4500 /041.74 | 1500/105.49 0,377.62 [5700/2585.5 _ | 1900/133.6 [0.4/10.16 | 6900/1769 1 2300/161.7 0.5/12.7 | 7800/3580.1__| 2600/182.8 The corresponding load-penetration relationship is shown bellow. Standard load/penetration curve for CBR of 100% 7000 | T 6000 - 4500 | 4000 30007 2000 1000 Load LPF 02254756 8 10 2 14 Penetration (mm) aeee ee ae ee | 11.3 PRINCIPLES AND THEORY 43 11212.2 123 12.4 13, 13.1 ns :- CBR test should not be used to estimate the bearing capacity of ground for foundations: the test result should be regarded as an index property. The application of which is restricted to pavement. Construct Practical Aspects of the test ( typical CBR value ) AASHTO ified SBR | congition | Lanbe ceereraeaee eemeeed Value used as Clay A-5, A-6, A-7, | OH, CI, MIT, OT 0-3 | V. poor Silty Clay A-4, A-S, | OH, CH, MH, OL 3-7 | Poor +fair A-6, A-7, A-2,A-4,A-6,A-7 [OL CL,MC,SM, SL | 7-20 _| Fair Borrow A-I-b, A-2-5, A-2-6, | GM, GC,SW,SM,SP_| 20-50 | Good ‘Subbase A-I-a, A-2-4,A-3, | GW, GM, >50__ | V. good Base course Surcharge Weight :- The surcharge weights, simulates the effect of the thickens of road construction overlying the layer being tested. Each 5 Ib disc is equivalent to about 70mm thickness of superimposed construction. Surcharge weight should placed on the top of surface of the prepared specimen before testing. If the specimen is to be soaked before testing the surcharge rings should be placed on the sample immediately before immersion so that their presence can be control the amount of swelling. The effect of surcharge is greater for granular soils than for cohesive soils, but granular soils generally provide satisfactory sub-grades and pavement bases so this difference is not critical Effect of soaking :~ The American practice as a precaution to allow for moisture content increase in the soil due to flooding or elevation of the water table, However, soaking has been shown to give rise to conditions which are too severe in many cases, resulting in unnecessarily conservative designs of pavement thickness. TESTS Apparatus 13.1.1 sample mixing tray 13.1.2 compacting mold with base plate, and extension collar 13.13 Rammer 113,CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO. Fig. 11.8 CBR mould, fittings and tools for BS tests hares re 1 Peincnes cia mould body i 4-504 inenes [ipa uns fign (ae lee [posts tixed at corners f square baseplate f | | SS Sg — Fig. 11.9 Arrangement of CBR mould and filings (ASTM type) (dimensions in ‘brackets are mm) pri 77.) Z --490 mm lone, 1413.1.4 13.1.5 13.1.6 13.1.9 4.75 and 19mm sieves spacer dise Balance dial gauge Joven. Tripod 13.1.10 Load frame ( machine ) 13.1.11 Soaking tank d 1 A 13.1.7 ’ 13.2.1 13.2.2 13.2.3 13.2.4 13.2.5 13.2.6 13.2.7 13.2.8 13.2.9 t 13.2.10 " 13.2.1 13.2.12 13.1.12. Moisture (container) 13.1.13 Filter paper 13.114 Trimming knife 13.2 Procedure Determine natural moisture content of the CBR test sample A. wt of sample ( Air dry ) + container B. wt of oven dry sample + container C._ wtof container N.M.C= (A-B)x 100% (B-C) Calculate the amount of water to be added in order to increase the moisture in the amount of test sample. Let mass of air dry sample =m Optimum moisture content = Wo Natural moisture content " wil Amount of water to be added M (Wo-W1) (100+ WI) Weigh the required amount of sample Place the weighed sample on the sample tray Measure the required measured ( calculated ) water ‘Weigh the mold and record ‘Add that calculated water and mix thoroughly Place the spacer disc on the bass plate. Place filter paper on the top of the spacer disc Place the 1* portion of sample in to the mold Compact it with the required method, rammer and blows Repeat the process using the other required portions. 1sSection 11.6.9, andthe penetration tests similar to that given in Section 11.1, Fig. 11.17 CBR mould, fittings and accessories (ASTM type) 11613.3 13.2.13 13.2.14 13.215 13.2.16 13.2.17 13.2.18 13.2.19 13.2.20 Swell 13.3.1 13.3.2 13.3.3 13.3.4 Remove the extension collar and carefully trim the compacted soil even with the top of the mold by means of a straight edge patch with smaller size material any holes and rough surface that may have developed in the surface by the removal of coarse material. Remove the perforated base plate and spacer disk. Weigh and record the mass of the mold plus compacted soil Place a disk of coarse filter paper on the perforated base plate . Invert the mold and compacted soil, and clamp the perforated base plate to the mold with compacted soil in contact with the filter paper. Place the surcharge weights on the perforated plate and adjustable stem assembly and carefully lower on to the compacted soil specimen in the mold Apply a surcharge equal to the weight of the base material and pavement with in 5 or 10 1b, Mount the dial gauge support on top of the extension caller, fit the dial gauge and adjust the level of the stem on the perforated plate so that the gauge reads zero or some convenient value. Immerses the assembled mold in water allowing free access of water to the top and bottom of the specimen. Take initial measurements for swell immediately and allow the specimen to soak for 4 days (96 house ) maintain a constant water level during this period. If water does not appear at the top surface after 3 days immersion, pour water on to the top surface so that it remains covered and leave to soak. Usually soaking period is 4 days and 6 hours but a longer period may be necessary to allow swelling to reach completion. Take final swell measurements and calculate the swell as a percentage of the initial height of the specimen, Calcul ion of Swell - Height of speciment = H = Division of the swelling dial gauge = 0,0254mm. = Initial dial reading = Hy - Final dial reading = Hp % swell = (Hz-Hy)x 0.0254 x 100% H 1711.6 SPECIMEN PREPARATION 495 Fig. 11.20 Accessories for measurement of swelling in soaking test i 4 } Fig. 11.21 Soaking tank 8ae ee SS] SSeS USES OMe 116 SPECIMEN PREPARATION surcharge rings: sampre Fig. 11.22 Arrangement for soaking and swelling test Fig. 11.23. Swelling test apparatus _—tia gauge mounting edjustabie stem 119a wh OE eh a eh etek idl inal iidded I ITIDIEESTCTC 13.4 Penetration Procedure 13.4.1 Remove the sample and mould from the tank. Place the mold and sample on the rigid surface, to drain downward for 15min. Take care not to disturb the surface of the specimen during the removal of the water. 13.4.2 After some water has drained away remove the surcharge disc, perforated plate and extension collar and weigh the sample with mould, 13.4.3 Setting up loading frame:- 13.43.1 Place a surcharge of weights on the specimen sufficient to produce an intensity of loading to the weight of the base material or over burden of material. 13.432 Place the mold with base plate contains the sample centrally the platen of the testing machine. 13-433 Contact the plunger with the top of the sample surface. Check that the connections between plunger load ring and cross-head ae tight. 1343.4 Mount the penetration dial gauge on the bracket attached to the plunger. 13.4.3.5 Seat the penetration piston with the smallest possible load. The value of which depends on the expected CBR value as follows. CBR Value PI [ Seat Load | | Silty clay about 5% 20-30 10N 1-2% 0 10N 4=7% 120-30 25N 30% | 20-30 50N Sandy Gravel "| above 30% | NPT 250N Gravelly clay 1343.6 Winds up the machine platen slowly by hand until the load ring indicates this reading. Then reset the load dial gauge to zero, because the seating load is not taken into account in the test. 1343.7 Adjust the penetration dial gauge to read zero or same convenient datum reading '3-43.8 Switch on the motor and record the load ring dial and penetration at 0.64mm (0.025") upto 12.7 (0.5") 0.64, 1.27, 1.95, 2.54. 3.18, 3.81, 4.45, 5.08, 10.16 and 12.7mm 120CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO Ip erossnead of testing machine guide bearing — Ce ee ey ial gouge support bracket penetration dia! gouge _—surcharge rings “hardened end of plunger —49-6mm diameter —cBR mouiaRS dl eed it ld ted pl peed ed SABA Engineering Plc. £-0-Box 62668 01341065 /241617/341733/432425 ax: 341230/341627 A.A, Ethiopia Ermall_sava.ongételecon.net.ot Project - ‘Sub. By on Date Tested. Pletone Area3inch?/19.27cm? Ring Factor 9.371b /4.26kq Station Depth CBR Penetration Test er ] a waa? | “aa 78 “ae | ers | 527 4 i 160 | aso 192 1799 Pate faze oa] 2206.3 wi | 24456 sis2 815.2/1500 x100" 543 265} 2e704s 800.2 aos | 2608 6 “962 7 - “20 | “soe 7 “oer — Stress (PS!) o on 02 03 4 Os 06 Penetration (Inch) Moisture Content ‘Swell Before Soaked ‘for | Getore Soaked After Soaked ‘Soaked [A Mold We. [Can No. B. Mold+Soit ‘A. Wt. Of wet+can F -1x dial Div. X 100 IC. Volume of mold | Ditto B. Wt. Of drytcan Ditto ight of sample D. Wet density glee © Wt. Of can O= B.A We c Dry Density Dx 100 wo + 100 122CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO CBR Test D ata No.of layers. Blows per layer. 62, Ascompacteg Surcharge rings. 2..no, Seeked- days load. #.4g tone PENETRATION Test Mood ring Wo...A8/2... Capacity... aw Fle.11.28 Typical data from CBR test ©) Removal from —- -7 PENETRATION TEST 503 8 8 KN load 253 aes] 2 4 T ; cle — — — He fe Ter | 5 |se| 20 |294 ; | 1 | Boyt Ee he b) $0 ___.} Fig. 11.29 Three types of load-penetration curve from CBR tests: (a) no Correction required, (b) correction required-as indicated, (c) correction as (b) may ‘not be valid /aetad ehould not include 124A suitable form for reporting results is shown in Fig. 11.31. omnes em a 8-5. ‘Heavy’ compaction [Reena cee D5 CBR rman 3/24 CBR test results and graph sheet (from data in Fig. 11.28) Fig. 11.31 12513.5 Calculation Penetration dial division = 0.0254 Load dial reading = Cc Ring factor = Rb Area of piston = Ainch Stress CxR = PSI A 13.5.1 13.5.2 13.5.3 Lond — Penetration Curve :- readings of the load ring dial gauge are Against penetration, and the force need be calculated only at penetration of 2.5 and Smm. es) If the load PSI at 2.5mm = P CBR =_Px100. = CBR % andatSmm P2x100 = CBR % 1000 1500 or using corrected stress values taken from the stress penetration curve for 0.1 inch and 0.2 inch penetrations. Calculate the bearing ratios for each be dividing the corrected stress by the standard stress of 1000 PST = (6.9 MPa) and 1500 PSI (10.3 MPa) and multiplying by 100, The bearing ratio normally reported for the soil is the one (0.1 inch) when the Tatio at 0.2 inch is greater rerun the test. Ifthe check test gives a similar result use the bearing ratio at 0.2. Calculate the moisture content and unit weight or density, bulk and dry, before soak and after soaked. Three point CBR If CBR value for soil at 95% of max. dry density is desired, samples (Specimen) should be compacted using 10, 30, and 65 blows per layer is satisfactory penetration shall be performed on each of these specimen load — Penetration curve plot the CBR value versus dry density graph determine the design CBR at the percentage of the max dry density. ‘This procedure is both for standard and modified compaction,Ti93 METHODS OF SAMPLING AND TESTING 93 $44 Swel percent of orginal length) . pet. 9.45 California Bearing Ratio. et. CORRECTED Lomo vaLuES. ‘AT O:2 IN. PENETRATION }ORRECTED LOAO VALUES. \T 0.1 IN. PENETRATION ‘ADJUSTED OMGINS FoR CONCAVE: ‘SHAPE OF CURVES 03 04 PENETRATION~ INCHES Fic, 2—Correction of Stress—Strain Curves,pf30 Blows PER LAYER SOAKED CBR d 10 eLows PER LAYERCALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO TEST LAB No. ee PRovecr MATL TYPE STATION —_—_—_____ DATE TESTED DEPTH TESTED BY ee £04014 pay MOISTURE CONTENT C.8.R 02 03, o4 8 PENETRATION 1M INCHES SURCHARGE DURATION OF sou Wot. OF mouLD % SWEEL % a = berore soanime | arter soanme] BULK DENSITY “Laer, | ORY DENSITY Leyeary Pare * F—-Me remmer;----blows per layer in----byers 8) . Lite mo FORM No. DS—M—< >TEE e— i TOC EE lS emer i ae eilemli( X10" 104110" 103510" 2834 x 10" 9x10" 3.169% 10% 1 328% 10° 3.28 8.982 x 10? Bix 10% 9.65% 10" 308 t 1000 274 K6S8x 107 9.659 10" 03048 10> 1 2.738 x 10° 7x 10* 3.527 10% 11133 0.365 365.25, 1 ties (at 20°C) glem? pPure Water 0.99620__Kerosene (approx) 080) Sea Water 1.04 Parafin wax (m.p. 52-52°C) 0912 Mercury 13546 Microcrystalline wax (mp. 63°C) 0515 ai