Sieveanalysis

o What is the purpose of grain size analysis?
Grain size analysis is used for classification of soils to determine the particle size distribution of
the soil types present (sand, gravel, silt, clay) based on the defined grain size range in ASTM
standards. The data obtained from grain size distribution curves is used in the design of filters
for earth dams and to determine suitability of soil for road construction, air field
etc. Information obtained from grain size analysis can be used to predict soil water movement
although permeability tests are more generally used.
o Under what conditions should you use wet sieving instead of dry sieving?
Wet sieving is a procedure used to evaluate particle size distribution or
gradation of a granular material. It’s also used to prepare a granular material
for particle size analysis by removing fines that may impede the separation
process. Wet sieving is recommended to use with materials that require water addition, and
that slake in normal industrial use. it is often used when there is information of hard lumps in
small particles of aggregates and for soils with plastic fine.
o On which basis do you select the number and opening of sieves for the sieve analysis of a given
soil?
Each sieve is identified by either a number that corresponds to the number of square holes
per linear inch of mesh or the size of the opening. Each sieve has its own opening size which
approximately distinguish the size and classification of the soil. The grain size analysis is widely used
in classification of soils. The result of the grain test will be a predominant factor in selecting the
number and opening of sieves for a soil sample. Also, the required specifications and soil
description will also be a key factor. Practically, fine grain size soils require to have small
opening of sieve and vice versa, it will also be influenced by the purpose of that particular soil.
o How can you quickly verify the results of dry sieving?

The soil retained on each sieve is weighed, and the percentage of soil retained on each sieve is
calculated. The results are plotted on a graph of percentage of particles finer than a given sieve
size and by conducting a soil classification analysis.
o What are the smallest and largest mesh openings used in practice for determining grain size
distribution?
Sieves and screen are usually used for larger particle sized materials i.e., greater than
approximately 50µm (0.050mm).For this experiment, the largest mesh opening used was No.
3/8 (9.51 mm) and the smallest sieve number is No. 200 (0.075 mm ).
o A mass of volcanic ashes with highly crushable grains is brought to the laboratory. What
precaution do you take to determine its grain size distribution?
Grain-size distribution analysis is a vital step in the assessment of the health hazard of volcanic
ash, giving the quantity of respirable<4 micrometer and sub-10 micrometer particles in a bulk
sample. Achieving a representative sample of is vital for powders which are heterogenous
composition and grain size, especially when a sub sample may consist of only a few mg of
material. Thus, proper treatment and procedure must be done like it should be oven-dried at
temperature not greater that 40deg C.
o On what range of particle size does the sieve analysis apply?
The range of particles size that the sieve analysis applies is applicable to the Unified Soil
Classification System and American Standards for Material s and Testing. Sieve analysis apply to
a range from number 3/8’’ in to number 200. This is from he coarsest to the finest particle size
of the soil
o Is it possible to carry out a sieve analysis on a sample of clay?
Clay’s particles are very small that they pass the sieve no. 200. By ASTM standards, they are
regarded as anything smaller than 0.075mm. Due to the particle size of clay which is about less
than 75 micrometer, it is not possible to apply the method of sieve analysis. Thus, the
hydrometer analysis of soil is recommended to be used.

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o What is the purpose of grain size analysis?

o How can you quickly verify the results of dry sieving?

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