Geotechnical Engineering

LAB MANUAL
 CONTENTS

Page
SL. Experiments
No From To
1 Identification of Soils 7 10
1 Determination of Specific gravity of soil solids by Pycnometer method 7 10

2 Determination of Specific gravity of soil solids by Density bottle 11 13

3 Determination of water content of soil solids oven drying method. 14 16
4 Determination of water content of soil solids by Pycnometer method. 17 19
5 Determination of in-situ density by Core cutter method 20 24
6 Determination of in-situ density by Sand replacement method 25 30
7 Determination of particle size distribution by sieving (Grain size 31 35
analysis)
8 Determination of liquid limit of fine soil by Casagrande apparatus 36 39
9 Determination of Plastic limit of the soil 40 42
10 Determination of Shrinkage limit of the soil 43 46
11 Determination of maximum dry density and optimum moisture 47 50
content by Standard Proctor compaction method
12 Determination of co-efficient of permeability by Constant head 51 54
13 Determination of co-efficient of permeability by variable head method 55 58
14 Determination of liquid limit of fine soil by Cone Penetration Method 59 60
15 Determination of shear parameters by Direct shear test of soil 61 66
16 Determination of unconfined compressive strength of soil 67 70
17 Vane Shear Test 71 73
18 Demonstration of Miscellaneous Equipments 74 76
REFERENCE BOOKS:

1. Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engg.- Punmia B.C. (2005), 16th Edition Laxmi
Publications Co. , New Delhi.
2. BIS Codes of Practice: IS 2720(Part-3/Sec. 1) – 1987; IS 2720 (Part – 2)- 1973; IS 2720 (Part
– 4) – 1985; IS 2720 (Part – 5) – 1985; IS 2720 (Part – 6) – 1972; IS 2720 (Part –7) – 1980; IS
2720 (Part – 8) – 1983; IS 2720 (Part – 17) – 1986; IS 2720 (Part - 10) – 1973; IS 2720 (Part –
13) – 1986; IS2720 (Part 11) – 1971; IS2720 (Part 15) – 1986; IS 2720 (Part 30) – 1987; IS 2720
(Part 14) – 1977; IS 2720 (Part – 14) – 1983; IS 2720 (Part – 28) – 1974; IS 2720 (Part – 29) –
1966, IS 2720 (Part-60) 1965.
4. Soil Testing for Engineers- Lambe T.W., Wiley Eastern Ltd., New Delhi.
5. Manual of Soil Laboratory Testing- Head K.H., (1986)- Vol. I, II, III, Princeton Press,
London.
6. Engineering Properties of Soil and Their Measurements- Bowles J.E. (1988), - McGraw
Hill Book Co. New York.
EXPERIMENT NO 1 DATE:

FIELD IDENTIFICATION OF SOILS

Aim:
For field identification of soil into common types like sand, gravel, silt or clay, etc.

Apparatus:
a) Test tube or jar.
b) Glass plate for rolling.

Theory:
The first step in any geotechnical engineering project is to identify and describe the subsoil
condition. For example, as soon as the ground is identified as gravel, an engineer can
immediately form some ideas on the nature of problems that might be encountered in a tunneling
project. In contrast, a soft clay ground is expected to lead to other types of design and
construction considerations. Therefore, it is useful to have a systematic procedure for the
identification of soils even in the planning stages of a project. Soils can be classified into two
general categories: (1) coarse-grained soils and (2) fine-grained soils. Usually, coarse-grained
soils are sand, gravel, cobble, and boulder, while fine-grained soils are silt and clay.

Procedure:
1. By Grain Size of Soil particles
Sand and gravels can be identified easily by visual inspection as the diameter of fine sand
particles are greater than 75micron IS sieve and a particle of 0.075mm will settle out of
suspension in water quickly with a velocity of 0.51cm/sec.
a) Mix the sample of soil and water in the field, in a test tube or jar thoroughly.
b) Measure the time taken for the top 10cm to become substantially clear. If it becomes
clear in 20sec the soil is said to have clean fine sand. Otherwise, it is termed silt and/or
clay.

2. Presence or Lack of Plasticity

Roll the soil into 3mm threads of long length and hold with one hand. Clay, unlike silts, can
support when rolled into threads of longer length than silts. Silt can be rolled in a wet state
into threads that can support its own weight when the length of the thread is only a few cms.
 The moisture content at which soil starts crumbling when rolled into 3mm diameter is called
plastic limit (wp). At this moisture content silts are soft and feeble, silty clays are harder but
softer than clays. The more plastic the clay the harder and tougher it will be at the plastic
limit.

3. Dilatancy or Shaking or Volume change test

Take a small amount of soil and mix it with water to a very soft consistency in the palm of
your hand. The back of the hand is then tapped lightly. If the soil is silty, the water rises
quickly to its surface and gives it a shiny/glistering appearance.

Or

Place a wet soil on the palm, it appears to shine. If the soil silt, the shiny looks disappear
when the palm is cupped. This is because, when the palm is cupped, the soil is squeezed
which causes shear deformation and since silt is non-plastic, it causes the soil to expand from
low volume and hence water flows into the soil to make up for the increased volume of
pores.

Clay, being highly plastic and also has a very low value of permeability, compared to silt will
not lose its shiny look when the palm is cupped.
EXPERIMENT NO 2 DATE:

WATER CONTENT OF SOIL SOLIDS BY OVENDRYING METHOD

Aim:
To determine the water content of soil solids by the Oven Drying method.

Apparatus:
c) Non-corrodible airtight containers.
d) Balance weighting to the accuracy of 0.04% of the weight of the soil taken for the
test.
e) Desiccators with a suitable desiccating agent.
f) Thermostatically controlled oven to maintain temperature 110°C ± 5°C.
g) Other accessories.

Specification:

This test is done as per IS 2720 (Part II) – 1973. The soil specimen should be representative of
the soil mass. The quantity of the specimen taken would depend upon the gradation and the
maximum size of the particles. For more than 90% of the particles passing through 425 microns
IS sieve, the minimum quantity is 25g.

Theory:
In almost all soil tests natural moisture content of the soil is to be determined. The
knowledge of the natural moisture content is essential in all studies of soil mechanics. To sight a
few, the natural moisture content is used in determining the bearing capacity and settlement. The
natural moisture content will give an idea of the state of soil in the field. Water content, w of a
soil mass is defined as the ratio of the mass of water in the voids to the mass of solids:
𝑊2−𝑊3
w= 𝑥 100
(𝑊3−𝑊1)

Where, W1 = Empty weight of empty container (in grams)

W2 = Weight of container + wet soil (in grams)

W3 = Weight of container + dry soil (in grams)

Precautions:
• Ensure that soil samples are between 350 to 400g. Larger samples take too long to dry, while
smaller samples lead to inaccurate results.
• Ensure that the oven temperature is maintained at 105-110º C ± 5º C. Do not allow the oven
door to stay open for too long, as it takes a while for the oven to regain the drying
temperature.
• Do not put moist samples in the oven on a shelf below dry sample. Moist samples should be
placed on the top shelf and all partially dried samples placed on the lower shelf.
• Do not over-load the oven, as this will create a much longer drying time.
• Do not allow dried samples to pick up moisture after they are removed from the oven.
Weigh them immediately after drying.
• The use of heat-resistant gloves/mitts or pot holders to remove samples from the ovens is
recommended.

Procedure:
c) Clean the container with a lid. Dry it and find the weight (W1 in g).
d) Take a representative sample of soil in the container, place the lid on it, and weigh it
(W2 in g).
e) Keep the container in the oven with the lid open and dry it for at least 24 hr. at a
temperature of 105-110°C till the mass remains constant.
f) Remove the container from the oven, replace the lid, and cool it in desiccators.Find
the weight (W3 in g).
g) Determine the water constant w by using the above equation.
h) Repeat the procedure for different trials.

Pre-viva Questions:
1. Water content is also called?
2. Which method is mostly used to determine the water content in the field?
3. What is the water content of clay soil?
4. On which factor water content is dependent?
5. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) method is also used for measuring water content(True or
False?)
6 Name different types of soil textures?
7. The percentage of water remaining in an air-dry soil is called .
Table:
Table 1: Weights of container
Sl Particulars Trial-1 Trial-2 Trial-3
No (w1) (w2) (w3)
1 Weight of empty container (W1), g
2 Weight of container + wet soil (W2), g
3 Weight of container + dry soil (W3), g
4 Water content, w
5 Average water content, w = (w1+ w2 +w3)/3

Specimen calculations:
𝑊2−𝑊3
w= 𝑥 100
(𝑊3−𝑊1)

AVERAGE wavg =

Result:
The natural moisture/water content of given soil sample is ____________.

Verification/ Validation:
Soil mass is generally a three-phase system. It consists of solid particles, liquid, and gas. The
phase system may be expressed in SI units either in terms of mass- volume or weight volume
relationships. The water content value is 0% for dry soil and its magnitude can exceed 100%.

Note:
The container used for the determination of water content should be free from any corrosion The
corrosive portion may absorb moisture from the soil which may result in inaccuracies.

Post-Viva Questions
1. Draw the schematic diagram of the three-phase system based on the result.
2. Is there a possibility of the soil getting burnt? In that case, what will be the effect on the
water content value?
3. How does air-dry soil differ from oven-dry soil?
4. Is this method the most direct method to compute the water content of soil?
5. To get an accurate result, how much gram of soil have you taken to conduct the test?
EXPERIMENT NO 3 DATE:

SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF SOIL SOLIDS BY PYCNOMETER METHOD

Aim:
To determine the specific gravity of a given soil sample by the Pycnometer method.

Apparatus:
a) Pycnometer of about 1-liter capacity, c) Glass rod,

b) Balance accurate to 1 g, d) de-aired distilled water, etc.

Specification:
This test is specified in IS: 2720 (Part 4) – 1985.

Theory:
The specific gravity of soil solids is defined as the weight of soil solids to the weight of an equal
volume of water. In effect, it tells how much heavier (or lighter) the material is than water. A
soil’s specific gravity largely depends on the density of the minerals making up the individual
soil particles. This test method covers the determination of the specific gravity of soil solids that
pass a 4.75 mm sieve.

The equation for specific gravity, G:

𝑊2−𝑊1
G=
(𝑊2−𝑊1) −(𝑊3−𝑊4)

Where, W1 = weight of Pycnometer (in grams).

W2 = weight of Pycnometer + dry soil (in grams).
W3 = weight of Pycnometer + soil+ water (in grams).
W4 = weight of Pycnometer + water (in grams).

Precautions:
▪ Soil grains whose specific gravity is to be determined should be completely dry.
▪ If on drying soil lumps are formed, they should be broken to their original size.
▪ Inaccuracies in weighing and failure to completely eliminate the entrapped air are
the main sources of error. Both should be avoided.
Procedure:
a) Clean and dry the pycnometer. Mark the cap and pycnometer with a vertical line parallel to the
axis of the pycnometer to ensure that the cap is screwed to the same mark each time. Weigh it
along with the conical cap (W1 in gm).
b) Select about 300 gm of dry soil free of clods and fill the pycnometer with the soil of about
1/3rd of its height. Weigh it (W2 in g) with a cap.
c) Fill the pycnometer with de-aired water up to half its height and stir the mix with a glass
rod to remove entrapped air. Add more water and stir it. Fill it with the water up to the
mark and take the weight (W3 in g).
d) The pycnometer is emptied and thoroughly washed. After washing, it is filled with water
up to the mark and again weight W4 is taken.
e) Use the above equation for determining G.
f) Repeat the process for different trials.

Pre-Viva Questions:
1. Why do we need to compute the specific gravity of soil?
2. What is the unit of specific gravity?
3. What is the specific gravity of water?
4. Explain the steps required to determine specific gravity by the Pycnometer method.
5. What are the calculations required in computing specific gravity by the Pycnometer method?

Tabular Column:

Table 2: Weights of Pycnometer

Sl. No. Particulars Trial-1 Trial-2 Trial-3
(G1) (G2) (G3)
1 Empty weight of Pycnometer
(W1), g
2 Weight of Pycnometer + dry
soil (W2), g
3 Weight of Pycnometer + soil
+ water, (W3), g
4 Weight of Pycnomerter +
water (W4), g
5 Calculation of specific
gravity, G
6
Average G = (G1+G2+G3)/3

Specimen calculations:
𝑊2−𝑊1
G=
(𝑊2−𝑊1) −(𝑊3−𝑊4)

AVERAGE Gavg =
Result:
The specific gravity of given soil sample at temperature ______°C is Gs = Kt x Gavg
____________ (see Kt from Table I).
Hence the type of soil is ______________.

Verification/ Validation:
The value of specific gravity for the existing soil falls in the range of 2.6 to 2.75. If there is any
variation, re-do the experiment to get accurate results.

Note:
1. A specific gravity test is conducted at a standard temperature of 27°C. If there is any
variation in the temperature necessary corrections should be applied.
2. The purpose of the conical top is to reduce the cross-section gradually to a minimum such
that any difference in the level of water in different stages should not cause a serious error.
Further, the opening will allow any air present in the voids of soil to be expelled out.
3. When the pycnometer is used, the ring should be tightened to this position every time so that
the pycnometer volume remains the same.

Post-Viva Questions:
1. What are the standard values of specific gravity?
2. Do we need to conduct this test? Why?
3. What is your inference on the result obtained?
4. Can we use this method for all types of soils?
5. Write phase diagrams for a) Dry soil and b) Saturated soil.

Table-I: Correction Factor for Variation in Specific Gravity of water due to Temperature

Temperature Kt Temperature Kt Temperature Kt

°C °C °C
15 1.0026 24 1.0008 33 0.9982
16 1.0024 25 1.0005 34 0.9979
17 1.0023 26 1.0003 35 0.9975
18 1.0021 27 1.000 36 0.9972
19 1.0019 28 0.9997 37 0.9968
20 1.0017 29 0.9994 38 0.9964
21 1.0015 30 0.9991 39 0.9961
22 1.0013 31 0.9988 40 0.9957
23 1.0010 32 0.9985
EXPERIMENT NO 4 DATE:

SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF SOIL SOLIDS BY DENSITY BOTTLE METHOD

Aim:
To determine the specific gravity of a given soil sample by the Density bottle method.

Apparatus:
1. 50 ml capacity density bottle with stopper
2. Balance to weigh (accuracy 10gm)
3. Wash bottle with distilled water

Theory:
The specific gravity of soil solids is defined as the weight of soil solids the to weight of an equal
volume of water. The knowledge of specific gravity is needed in the calculation of soil properties
like void ratio, degree of saturation etc.

The equation for specific gravity, G:

𝑊2−𝑊1
G=
(𝑊2−𝑊1) −(𝑊3−𝑊4)

Where, W1 = weight of Density bottle (in grams).

W2 = weight of Density bottle + dry soil (in grams).
W3 = weight of Density bottle + soil+ water (in grams).
W4 = weight of Density bottle + water (in grams).

Precautions:
▪ Soil grains whose specific gravity is to be determined should be completely dry.
▪ If on drying soil lumps are formed, they should be broken to their original size.
▪ Inaccuracies in weighing and failure to completely eliminate the entrapped air arethe
main sources of error. Both should be avoided.

Procedure:
a) Clean and dry the density bottle and weigh it along with the stopper (W1 in g).
b) Select about 25 gm of dry soil free of clods and put the same into the density bottle. Weigh
it with the stopper (W2 in g).
c) Fill the density bottle with de-aired water upto half its height and stir the mix with a glass
rod. Add more water and stir it. Place the stopper on top and take the weight (W3 in g).
d) Remove all the contents from the density bottle, clean it thoroughly and fill it with distilled
water. Weigh it (W4).
 e) Use the above equation for determining G.
f) Repeat the process for different trials.

Pre-Viva Questions:
1. Which method is accurate in determining the specific gravity of soil solids?
2. What are the steps involved in determining specific gravity using the density bottle
method?
3. How many grams of soil need to be taken for the test?
4. What is the specification required for the test?
5. What is the equation to determine the specific gravity?

Tabular Column:
Table 3: Weights of density bottle
Sl Particulars Trial-1 Trail-2 Trial-3
No (G1) (G2) (G3)
1 Empty weight of density bottle
(W1), g
2 Weight of bottle + dry soil
(W2), g
3 Weight of bottle + soil +
water (W3), g
4 Weight of bottle + water
(W4), g
5 Specific Gravity, G
6 Average G,
(G1+G2+G3)/3

Specimen calculations:
𝑊2−𝑊1
G=
(𝑊2−𝑊1) −(𝑊3−𝑊4)
AVERAGE Gavg =

Result:
The specific gravity of given soil sample at temperature ______°C is Gs = Kt x Gavg
____________ (see Kt from Table I).
Hence the type of soil is ______________.

Post-Viva Questions:
1. Can we use kerosene instead of water to determine the specific gravity of soil?
2. Could we do a classification of soil based on the specific gravity of soil?
3. Could there be entrapped air in the soil sample?
4. What are the various sources of error in this experiment, if any?
5. Wat are the applications in geotechnical engineering where the specific gravity is used?
EXPERIMENT NO 5 DATE:

PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION BY SIEVING

(GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS)
Aim:
To determine the particle size distribution by sieving, and to determine the fineness modulus,
effective size, and uniformity coefficient.

Apparatus:
a) IS Sieves of sizes: 4.75 mm, 2.0 mm, 1.0 mm, 600µ, 300µ, 150µ, 75µ, and pan.
(ie; I.S 460-1962 is used. The sieves for soil tests: 4.75 mm to 75 microns)
b) Balance
c) Trays, sieve brushes
d) Mechanical sieve shaker

Specifications:
This test is specified in IS: 2720 (Part 4) – 1985 – Method of test for soil (Part 4-Grain size
analysis).

Theory:
The grain size analysis is widely used in the classification of soils. The data obtained from grain
size distribution curves is used in the design of filters for earth dams and to determine the
suitability of soil for road construction, airfield, etc. Information obtained from grain size
analysis can be used to predict soil water movement although permeability tests are generally
used. The method is applicable to dry soil passing through a 4.75 mm size sieve less than 10 %
passing through a 75-micron sieve. Also, grain size analysis is an attempt to determine the
relative proportions of different grain sizes which make up a given soil mass.

1. Percentage retained on any sieve = (weight of soil retained / total weight) x100

2. Cumulative percentage retained = sum of percentages retained on any sieve on all

coarser sieves
3. Percentage finer than any sieve = 100% - cumulative percentage retained
Precautions:
• Clean the sieves set so that no soil particles were struck in them.
• While weighing put the sieve with the soil sample on the balance in a concentric
position.
• Check the electric connection of the sieve shaker before conducting the test.
• No particle of soil sample shall be pushed through the sieves.

Procedures:
a) Take a representative sample of soil (about 1-2kg) by quartering and breaking if any
lumps are present.
b) Clean the sieves using wire brush, so that no particles are stuck in the sieve apertaure.
c) Arrange the sieves in the order of IS sieve size starting from 4.75mm at the top,
followed by 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600µ, 425µ, 300µ, 150µ, 75µ, and pan at the bottom.
d) Transfer the soil sample to the top sieve and place the sieve stack in the sieve shaking
machine with the lid closed.
e) Carry out the sieving in the set of sieves as arranged before for not less than 5minutes.
f) Weigh the mass retained on each sieve.
g) Plot the graph of gradation curve with equivalent particle size v/s percentage finer on
semi-log garph. Corresponding to 10%, 30%, and 60% finer, obtain diameters from graph
designated as D10, D30, and D60.
h) Calculate the fineness modulus, Cu, and Cc. If the percentage of fines is greater than 5%
(Grain size less than 75micron), sedementation analysis should be carried out.

Specimen Calculation:
𝐰𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝
% weight retained = 𝐱 𝟏𝟎𝟎
𝐭𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐰𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭

Cumulative % retained = sum of % retained on any sieve on all sieves

% finer = 100% - cumulative % retained
Ʃ 𝐂ummulative % retained
Fineness modulus (FM) =
100

Result:
Fineness Modulus, FM =
Uniformity coefficient, Cu =
Coefficient of curvature, Cc =
Percentage gravel =
Percentage sand =
Percentage silt =

The given soil sample is classified as ___________________ since Cu ______ and Cc ________.

Pre-Viva Questions:
1) Define the grain size analysis and what is the silt size?
2) What is the uniformity coefficient? What is the significance of computing the same?
3) What is the most basic classification of soil?
4) What are the methods of soil gradation or grain size distribution?
5) How to compute D10, D30, and D60 of soil using sieve analysis?
6) How to compute CC and Cu?
7) What is poorly graded, gap graded, and well-graded soil?

Graph (Equivalent Particle/Grain Size in mm vs Percentage Finer in %):

Draw a graph of log sieve size vs % finer. The graph is known as the grading curve.
Corresponding to 10%, 30%, and 60% finer, obtain diameters from graph these are D10,
D30, D60, using these obtain Cc and Cu which further represent how well the soil is graded i.e
whether the soil is well-graded, gap-graded or poorly graded.

Graph 1 – Eq. Grain Size in mm v/s Percentage Finer in %

Tabular
Column:
Weight of soil taken for analysis W = gm

Table 4: Sieve Analysis data-sheet

Sieves Empty Weight of Weight % weight Cumulative %
(mm) weight soil retained retained % retained
of sieve retained + in each on each on each sieve Finer
(gm)
(gm) sieve (gm) sieve(gm) sieve (gm)

4.75

2.36

1.18

600µ

425µ

300µ

150µ

75µ

Pan

ƩC =
Verification/Validations:
For the soil to be well graded the value of the coefficient of uniformity Cu has to be greater than
4 and Cc should be in the range of 1 to 3. So higher the value of Cu the larger the range of the
particle sizes in the soil. So, if the Cu value is high it indicates that the soil mass consists of
different ranges of particle sizes.

Note:
1. If the soil contains a substantial quantity ie; >5% of fine particles, wet sieve analysis is
required.
2. Allen Hazen identified, the particular size/diameter of soil grains that can be used to
speculate various properties of the whole soil mass, that is D10, which is a diameter just larger
than the diameters of 10% of the soil grains, in other words, it is the size of the sieve through
which only 10% of the soil grains pass. That this diameter can be related to most of the soil
properties such as liquid limit, plasticity index, unconfined compressive strength, etc., and
hence can be used to empirically calculate those properties. So D10 is called as an
effective/equivalent size.
Hazen's permeability coefficient k (in cm/s) = 100(D10)2

Post-Viva Questions:
1. Does grain distribution affect the voids ratio of the soil?
2. Could the quality of concrete be enhanced by the grade of the sand?
3. If soil is uniformly graded, voids ratio is high or low?
4. Well graded aggregates require less cement or more?
5. What is the practical significance of Grain Size Distribution Anaysis?
EXPERIMENT NO 6 DATE:

IN-SITU DENSITY BY CORE CUTTER METHOD

Aim:
To determine the field density or unit weight of soil by the Core cutter method.

Specifications:
IS-2720-Part-29 (1975).

Apparatus:
1) Cylindrical core cutter,
2) Steel dolly,
3) Steel rammer of 9kg,
4) Balance, with an accuracy of 1g.
5) Trowel or Straight edge, steel ruler, etc.

Theory:
Field density is used in calculating the stress in the soil due to its overburden pressure. It is
needed in estimating the bearing capacity of a soil foundation system, settlement of footing, and
earth pressures behind the retaining walls and, embankments. The stability of natural slopes,
dams, embankments, and cuts is checked with the help of the density of soil. It is the density that
controls the field compaction of soils. The permeability of soils depends upon their density.
Field density is defined as weight per unit volume of soil mass in the field at in-situ
conditions.

Equations are;
𝑊
𝛾𝐵 =
𝑉
𝛾𝐵
𝛾𝑑 = gm/cm³
1+𝑤

Precautions:
1. Core cutter method of determining the field density of soil is only suitable for fine-
grained soil (Silts and clay). That is, the core cutter should not be used for gravels,
boulders, or any hard surface. This is because the collection of an undisturbed soil
sample from coarse-grained soil is difficult and hence the field properties, including unit
weight, cannot be maintained in a core sample.
 2. Core cutter should be driven into the ground till the steel dolly penetrates into the ground
halfway only so as to avoid compaction of the soil in the core.
3. Before lifting the core cutter, soil around the cutter should be removed to minimize the
disturbances.
4. While lifting the cutter, no soil should drop down.

Procedure:
a) Measure the height and internal diameter of the core cutter and take down its empty
weight (W1 g).
b) Calculate the internal volume of the core-cutter V in cm³.
c) Select the area of about 30sq.cm in the field where the density is required. Clean and
level the ground.
d) Fix the dolly over the top of the core cutter and the whole assembly is driven into the soil
until the top of the dolly protrudes about 1.5cm above the surface.
e) Remove the core cutter from the surrounding soil with the help of a straight edge or
trowel. The dolly is removed and the extra soil is trimmed off.
f) Clean the outer surface of the cutter and determine its weight along with the soil (W2 g).
g) A small representative soil is taken for water content determination.
h) Calculate the field density from the above equation.

Pre-Viva Questions:
1. Out of wet density, dry density, and saturated density, which one of them is maximumand
minimum? Explain.
2. What are the main factors which affect in-situ density of soil? Explain.
3. Beside the density, what other properties do you need to calculate the void ratio anddegree
of saturation of soils?
4.What are the other methods to calculate the field density of soil?
5. Which is the most accurate method to determine the field density?

Observations:

Height of core cutter h= ------------------ cm

Diameter of core cutter d= ---------------- cm

Volume of core cutter V = --------------- cm3

Tabular column:

Table 6: Weights of core cutter

Weight of empty cutter (W1), gms

Weight of cutter + wet soil (W2), gms

Weight of wet soil (W = W2 – W1) gms

𝑊
Field or bulk density 𝛾𝐵 = 𝑉
gm/cm3

Water content determination Tr-1 Tr-2 Tr-3

Container number
Weight of empty container (W1), gms

Weight of container + wet soil (W2), gms

Weight of container + dry soil (W3), gms

Water content = (W2 – W3)/(W3-W1)

Average water content (w)

𝛾𝐵
Dry density 𝛾𝑑 =
1+𝑤

Specimen calculations:
𝑊
𝛾𝐵 =
𝑉
𝜸𝑩
𝜸𝒅 =
𝟏+𝒘
Result:

Field or bulk density of the soil is = --------------

Dry density of the soil is = __________
Verification/ Validation:

The dry density of most soils varies within the range of 1.1-1.6 g/cm3. In sandy soils, dry density
can be as high as 1.6 g/cm3; in clayey soils and aggregated loams, it can be as low as 1.1 g/cm3.

Conclusion:
The value of dry density of the soil is _ . The type of soil is .

Post-Viva Questions:

1. Can we use core cutter method on stony or non-cohesive soils?

2. Which method is more accurate, sand replacement method or core cutter method?

3. What is the practical application of the current test?

4. Do we get undisturbed sample using core cutter?

5. Why is field density required?

6. Out of wet density, dry density, and saturated density, which one of them is maximum and
minimum? Explain
EXPERMENT NO 7 DATE:

DETERMINATION OF IN-SITU DENSITY BY SAND REPLACEMENT METHOD

Aim:
To determine the in-situ density of natural or compacted soil by Sand replacement method.

Specifications:
IS-2720-Part-28 (1975)

Apparatus:
a) Sand pouring cylinder of about 3 litre capacity,
b) Cylindrical calibrating container,
c) Glass plate,
d) Trowel or straight edge,
e) Metal tray having a hole at the centre,
f) Weighing balance,
g) Moisture content cans,
h) Oven

Theory:
The in-situ density of natural soil is needed for the determination of the bearing capacity of soils,
for the purpose of stability analysis of slopes, for the determination of pressures on underlying
strata for the calculation of settlement, and for the design of underground structures. Moreover,
dry density values are relevant to both of embankment design as well as pavement design.
By conducting this test, it is possible to determine the field density of the soil. The moisture
content is likely to vary over time and hence the field density also. So, it is required to report the
test result in terms of dry density.

Precautions:
▪ If for any reason it is necessary to excavate the pit to a depth other than 12 cm, the standard
calibrating can should be replaced by one with an internal height same as the depth of pit to
be made in the ground.
▪ Care should be taken in excavating the pit, so that it is not enlarged by levering, as this will
result in lower density being recorded.
▪ No loose material should be left in the pit.
▪ There should be no vibrations during this test.
▪ It should not be forgotten to remove the tray, before placing the SPC over the pit.
Procedures:
Calibration of cylinder

a) Calibration is nothing but finding the density of sand filled in the cylinder. Seive the sand
passing through 600µ and retained or 300µ sieve. Fill the sand pouring cylinder with sieved
sand up to a height of 1cm from the top. Weigh the sand pouring cylinder W1. This weight is
maintained throughout the test.
b) Place the cylinder over a plane or glass surface, and open the shutter. Allow the sand to flow.
When further no flowing of sand is seen, close the shutter and weight W2 is taken.
c) Determine the weight of sand in the conical portion Wcone.
d) Measure the internal dia and height of the calibrating container.
e) Now place the cylinder over calibrating container with weight W1 maintained. Open the shutter
to flow the sand. When the flow of sand stops, close the shutter and take down the weight W3
of the sand pouring cylinder.

Determination of field density

f) Take the empty weight of the metal tray Wa.

g) Approximately about 60sq.cm area of soil to be tested is excavated through a metal tray having
a hole at the center. The depth of the hole will be equal the to depth of the calibrating container.
h) Collect the excavated soil in the metal tray and take its weight Wb. Calculate the weight of
excavated soil Wsoil.
i) Place the sand pouring cylinder exactly over the excavated hole. With weight W1 maintained
open the shutter and allow the sand to flow. When no further movement of sand is seen , close
the shutter and take the weight of the sand pouring cylinder W4.
j) Take a representative portion of field soil sample for water content determination.
k) Calculate the field density of soil using the above equation.

Pre-Viva Questions:

1) What is the objective of sand replacement method?

2) What is the relationship that can be established between the dry densitywith
known moisture content?
3) What are the apparatus that are needed in this test?
4) What is the significance of determining the in-situ density of the soil?
5) Depth of hole is kept to 15 cm in the field. Why?

Result:
1) Bulk density of the soil = gm/ cm³
2) Dry density = gm/ cm³
Tabular column:

Table 7: Weights of SPC

Calibration

Weight of sand pouring cylinder before pouring W1

Weight of sand pouring cylinder after pouring the
sand W2
Weight of sand in cone portion (Wcone = W1 – W2)

Bulk density of standard sand

Internal dia of calibrating container d

Height of calibrating container h

Volume of calibrating container V

Weight of sand pouring cylinder after filling
calibrating container W3
Weight of sand in calibrating container
Wcalib = W1 – Wcone -W3
𝑊𝑐𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑏
Bulk density of sand 𝛾𝑠𝑎𝑛𝑑 = gm/cm3
𝑉
Bulk density of field soil

Empty weight of metal tray (Wa)

Weight of metal tray with excavated soil (Wb)

Weight of excavated soil (Wsoil)

Weight of sand pouring cylinder after filling the hole
W4
Weight of sand in the hole Whole = W1 – Wcone -W4
𝑊ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒
Volume of excavated hole Vh =
𝛾𝑠𝑎𝑛𝑑
𝑊𝑠𝑜𝑖𝑙
Bulk or field density 𝛾𝐵 = gm/cm3
𝑉ℎ
Water content determination Tr-1 Tr-2 Tr-3

Container number
Weight of empty container (W1), gms
 Weight of container + wet soil (W2), gms

Weight of container + dry soil (W3), gms

Water content = (W2 – W3)/(W3-W1)

Average water content (w)

𝛾𝐵
Dry density 𝛾𝑑 =
1+𝑤

Verification and Validations:

Sand replacement method is an indirect method of finding the density of soil. The basic principle
is to measure the in-situ volume of hole from which the material was excavated from the weight
of sand with known density filling in the hole. The in-situ density of material is given by the
weight of the excavated material divided by the in-situ volume. The dry density of most soils
varies within the range of 1.1-1.6 g/cm3. In sandy soils, dry density can be as high as 1.6
g/cm3; in clayey soils and aggregated loams, itcan be as low as 1.1 g/cm3.

Conclusion:
The dry density of the soil is g/cc. Comparing with the in-situ density by
core cutter method, more or less the same value is achieved.

Note:
1. Role of sand in sand replacement method: Sand is a granular and free flowing (when dry) and
has consistent weight per volume. Even it does not change volume when compressed.
2. Fine sand retained on 300µ is used since it can occupy all the small void spaces present in the
excavated hole.
Post-Viva Questions:

1. Why we need to determine the unit weight of sand to determine the unit weight ofsoil?

2. Which method is the accurate one, core cutter or sand replacement method as peryou? And
why?
3. How many samples are to be collected and why?

4. What is the advantage of sand replacement method over core cutter method?

5. What is the practical application of the test?

EXPERIMENT NO 8 DATE:

DETERMINATION OF LIQUID LIMIT OF FINE SOIL

Aim:
To determine the liquid limit of fine soil by using Casagrande Apparatus

Specifications:
This test is done to determine liquid limit of soil as per IS: 2720(Part 5)-1985.

Apparatus:
a) Casagrande apparatus with grooving tools.
b) Balance accurate to 0.01 g.
c) Airtight container to determine water content.
d) Oven
e) Sieve (425 micron).
f) Spatula

Theory:
Consistency of fine-grained soils may be defined as the relative ease with which a soil can be
remolded. Consistency limits may be categorized into three limits called Atterberg limits. They
are 1) Liquid limit 2) Plastic limit and 3) Shrinkage limit
When water is added to dry soil, it changes its state of consistency from hard to soft. We can
define liquid limit as the minimum water content at which the soil is still in the liquid state, but
has a small shearing strength against flow. From test point of view, we can define liquid limit as
the minimum water content at which a pat of soil cut by a groove of standard dimension will
flow together for a distance of 12 mm (1/2 inch) under an impact of 25 blows in the device.

Precautions:
▪ Soil used for liquid limit determination should not be oven dried prior to testing.
▪ In LL test the groove should be closed by the flow of soil and not by slippage between the
soil and the cup
▪ After mixing the water to the soil sample, sufficient time should be given to
permeate the water throughout out the soil mass
▪ Wet soil taken in the container for moisture content determination should not be left open in
the air, the container with soil sample should either be placed in desiccators or immediately
be weighed.
▪ After performing each test, the cup and grooving tool must be cleaned.
▪ The number of blows should be just enough to close the groove.
▪ The number of blows should be between 10 and 40.
Procedure:
a) Take about 120gm dried soil passing through 425µ. Mix the soil throughly with
distilled water to form a uniform paste. Allow some time for the soil to have uniform
distribution of water. The paste shall have a consistency that would require 30 to 35 drops
of cup to cause closer of standard groove for sufficient length.
b) Adjust the cup of the device in such a way that the height of fall of the cup on to the hard
rubber base is 10 mm.
c) A portion of the paste is placed in the cup of liquid limit device and spread into portion
with few strokes of spatula.
d) Trim to a depth of 1cm at the point of maximum thickness and return excess of soil to the
mixing dish.
e) The soil in the cup shall be divided by the firm strokes of the grooving tool along the
diameter through the center line of the follower, so that clean sharp groove of proper
dimension is formed.
f) Lift and drop the cup by turning crank at the rate of 2 revolutions per second until the two
halves of soil cake come in contact with each other for a length of about 1cm by flow
only.
g) The number of blows required to cause the groove close for about 1cm shall be recorded.
h) A representative portion of soil is taken for water content determination.
i) Repeat the test with different water content to get the blows in the range of 10 to 40.
j) Plot the graph of number of blows on x-axis v/s water content on y-axis. The water
content corresponding to 25 blows gives the liquid limit.

Pre-Viva Questions:
1) Define consistency of the soil. How is it measured?
2) What is liquid limit of soil?
3) What is the apparatus used to determine the liquid limit?
4) In a liquid limit test, the moisture content at 10 blows was 70% and that at 100 blows was 20%.
The liquid limit of the soil, is?
Tabular column:

Table 8: Number of blows v/s Water Content

Trial No 1 2 3 4

(w1) (w2) (w3) (w4)

No of blows (N)

Weight of Container (W1)

Weight of Container + Wet soil (W2)

Weight of Container + dry soil (W3)

Water content w=(W2-W3)/(W3-W1)

Water content, w =
(w1+w2+w3+w4)/4

Graph:
A semi-log plot of Number of blows Vs water Content is drawn from the table data. Determine
water content corresponding to 10 and 100 blows. Calculate flow index using the formula.
If = (w1-w2)/log (N2/N1)

W1

Water W2
content

Number of blows, N
(log scale)
Result:

From the graph drawn, flow index If = (w1-w2)/log (N2/N1) = ---------

And Liquid Limit= --------- %

Verification/Validation:

If the natural moisture content of soil is closer to liquid limit, the soil can be consideredas soft
if the moisture content is lesser than liquids limit, the soil is brittle and stiffer. Hence if the points
on the graph are obtained scattered, we need to draw the linear curve at the mean. Flow index
indicates the rate at which the soil loses shearing resistance with an increase in the water content.

Soil Type Liquid limit

Sand -
Silt 30-40
Clay 40 -150

Conclusion:

As per the procedure the experiment is carried out. For 25 blows, water content is %.

Note:
1. At liquid limit all soils possess same value of shearing strength equal to 1.67kPa.
2. The height of fall of 1cm is adjusted, such that soil should fail by shear. If height of fall is
more than 1cm, the load applied will be taken by the brass cup. Also if height of fall is less,
load will be taken by the rubber base.

Post-Viva Questions:

1. What is the purpose of computing liquid limit of the soil?

2. With the organic matter in the soil, will the liquid limit increase or decrease?
EXPERIMENT NO 9 DATE:

DETERMINATION OF PLASTIC LIMIT OF THE SOIL

Aim:
To determine the plastic limit of the given soil sample.

Specifications:
This test is done to determine the plastic limit of soil as per IS: 2720 (Part 5) – 1985.

Take out 30g of air-dried soil from a thoroughly mixed sample of the soil passing through
425µm IS Sieve. Mix the soil with distilled water in an evaporating dish andleave the soil
mass for 24hrs.

Apparatus:
a) Flat glass plate,
b) Balance accurate to 0.01 g,
c) Water content determination cups,
d) Flexible spatula.

Theory:

The plastic limit is the moisture content that defines where the soil changes from a semi-solid to
a plastic state. It may also be defined as that water content at which soil starts crumbling when
rolled into threads of 3mm diameter. Use the paste from liquid limit test and begin drying. May
add dry soil or spread on plate and air dry.

Precautions:
1. Soil used for plastic limit determination should not be oven dried prior to testing.
2. After mixing the water to the soil sample, sufficient time should be given to
permeate the water throughout out the soil mass.
3. Wet soil taken in the container for moisture content determination should not be left
open. The container with soil sample should either be placed in desiccators or
immediately be weighed.
Procedure:
a) About 20g of soil passing through 425µ IS sieve is taken. Mix the soil with distilled water
thoroughly on a glass plate to make it plastic enough to shape into a small ball.
b) Take about 10 g of this wet sail and roll it into a thread on a glass plate with the palm of the
hand. The rate rolling should be around 80-90 strokes per minute to form a uniform thread
of 3 mm diameter.
c) If the thread cracks before attaining 3 mm diameter, add little more water, knead it and roll
again. If the rolling can be done to diameter less than 3 mm, mix some dry soil, knead it to
remove same extra moisture in the soil.
d) The process is continued till the sample crumbles just at about 3 mm diameter. Collect the
crumbled soil and determine its water content.
e) Repeat the process to get at least three water content determination.
f) The average of water content so obtained is the plastic limit of the soil.

Tabular column:

Table 9: Water content of 3mm soil

Trail No 1 2 3 4

(w1) (w2) (w3) (w4)

Weight of Container (W1), g

Weight of Container+Wet soil (W2), g

Weight of Container+dry soil (W3), g

Water content w=(W2-W3)/(W3-W1), g

Average water content, w =

(w1+w2+w3+w4)/4

Graph:
Draw a graph of water content vs plasticity index. Plot the A-line and classify the soil into
respective group.

Pre-Viva Questions:
1) Define plastic limit of soil
2) How is plastic limit computed in laboratory?
3) What is the practical significance of determining plastic limit of the soil?
4) What is plasticity index?
5) What is toughness index?
Result:

The Plastic limit of soil (average water content) is .

Plasticity index (Ip) = WL - Wp

Verification/Validations:

Determine the plasticity index Ip, which is the difference between liquidlimit and plastic limit.
Following table list the standard values:

Soil Type WL WP Ip
Sand Non-Plastic
Silt 30-40 20-25 10-15
Clay 40-150 25-50 15-100

Conclusion:

The plastic limit of the soil = and plasticity index =

The type of soil is .

Post-Viva Questions:
1. What is meant by unified soil classification?
2. What is A-line and U-line?
3.What is liquidity index and consistency index?
EXPERIMENT NO 10 DATE:

DETERMINATION OF SHRINKAGE LIMIT

Aim: To determine the shrinkage limit of the soil.

Specifications:
The test is specified in IS: 2720(Part 6)-1972.

Apparatus:
a) 2 numbers of porcelain evaporating dish, about 12 cm in diameter within a flat
bottom.
b) 3 numbers of shrinkage dish made of non-corroding metal, having a flat bottom, 45mm
diameter and 15 mm high.
c) A glass cup of about 50 mm diameter and 25 mm high.
d) Two numbers glass plates of size 75 75 mm, one plate of plane glass and theother
with three metal prongs.
e) Spatula balance accurate to 0.01 g, oven etc.
f) Mercury.
g) Desiccator and other accessories.

Theory:
As the soil loses moisture, either in its natural environment, or by artificial means in laboratory,
it changes from liquid state to plastic state to semi-solid state and then to solid state. The volume
is also reduced by the decrease in water content. But, at a particular limit the moisture reduction
causes no further volume change. A shrinkage limit test gives a quantitative indication of how
much moisture can change before any significant volume change and to also indication of change
in volume. The shrinkage limit is useful in areas where soils undergo large volume changes when
going through wet and dry cycles (e.g. earth dams).
The value of shrinkage limit is used for understanding the swelling and shrinkage properties
of cohesive soils. It is used for calculating the shrinkage factors which helps in the design
problems of the structures made up of the soils or/and resting on soil. It gives an idea about the
suitability of the soil as a construction material in foundations, roads, embankments and dams.
Shrinkage limits are required to be determined on two types of soils, they are
i. Remoulded soil.
ii. Undisturbed soil.
Other shrinkage factors i.e. shrinkage ratio, volumetric shrinkage may also be calculated
from the test data of shrinkage limit.
Shrinkage ratio is the ratio of a given volume change expressed as a percentage ofdry volume
to the corresponding change in water content above the shrinkage limit.

Volumetric Shrinkage is the decrease in volume of a soil mass when the water contentis reduced
from given percentage to the shrinkage limit and which is expressed
as percentage of dry volume of the soil mass.

Precautions:

• CAUTION: DO NOT TOUCH THE MERCURY WITH GOLD RINGS

• The water content of the soil taken in shrinkage dish should be above liquid limit but
within 10% from liquid limit.
• To prevent the cake from adhering to the shrinkage dish and consequent cracking of the
dry soil paste, inside of the shrinkage dish should be greased with vaseline.
• During filling the shrinkage dish with soil paste, sufficient tapping should be done to
remove the entrapped air.
• The dry soil paste should be weighed soon after it has been removed from a desiccator
otherwise it picks up moisture from the air.
• Test should be repeated at least three times for each sample and the average of the results
thus obtained reported.
• No air should be entrapped under the dry soil paste when pressing by the glass with
prongs is being carried out.
Procedure:
a) Take about 100g of soil passing through 425µ sieve.
b) Take 30 g out of it and place the same in an evaporating dish. Mix it thoroughly withdistilled
water and make it into a thin paste for readily filling into a dish free from air bubbles.
Use water content some where around the liquid limit.
Determination of mass and volume of shrinkage dish:
c) Take a shrinkage dish, clean it and find its mass correct to 0.1 gm.
d) To determine its volume, place it in an evaporating dish. Fill the shrinkage dish with mercury
till the excess overflows to the evaporating dish. Press it with plain glass plate firmly on its
top to remove excess mercury. Pour the mercury from the shrinkage dish into a measuring jar
and find the volume of the shrinkage dish directly. Record this volume as the volume of the
wet soil pat.
e) Coat the inside of the shrinkage dish with a thin layer of silicon grease or Vaseline.
f) Fill the dish in three layers by placing approximately 1/3 rd of the amount of wet soil with
the help of spatula. Tap the dish gently on a firm base until the soil flows over the edges and
no apparent air bubbles exist. Repeat this process for 2nd and 3rd layers also till the dish is
completely filled with the wet soil. Strike off the excess soil and make the top of the dish
smooth. Wipe off all the soil adhering to the outside of the dish.
g) Record the weight the dish with wet soil.
h) Air- dry the wet soil cake for 6 to 8hrs, until the colour of the pat turns from dark to light.
Then oven-dry the to constant weight at 105°C to 110°C say about 12 to 16 hrs.
i) Remove the dried soil pat from oven. Cool it in a desiccator. Then obtain the weight of the
dish with dry sample.
 Volume of the Dry Soil Pat
j) Place the glass cup in a larger one and fill the glass cup to overflowing with mercury.
Remove the excess mercury by covering the cup with glass plate with prongs and pressing it.
See that no air bubbles are entrapped. Wipe out the outside of the glass cup to remove the
adhering mercury. Then, place it in another larger dish, which is, clean and empty carefully.
k) Place the dry soil pat on the mercury. It floats submerge it with the pronged glass plate
which is again made flush with top of the cup. The mercury spills over into the larger plate.
Pour the mercury that is displayed by the soil pat into the measuring jar and find the volume
of the soil pat directly.

The volume of the dry soil pat Vd is Vd = Mm/ 13.6.

Where, 13.6 is the density of mercury in g/cm3

Calculation of shrinkage limit, Ws

Mass of wet soil = Mo = (M1-M3) =-------------- g

Mass of dry soil = Ms = (M2–M3)= -------------- g

Volume of shrinkage dish = Volume of wet soil = Vo = ---------------

Volume of dry soil = Vd = ---------------

Vd = Mm / 13.6 where, 13.6 g/cm3 is the density of mercury.

Srinkage limit,Ws is

Ws = ((Mo-Ms)-(Vo-

Vd) w)/MsShrinkage ratio, Sr = ((Vo-Vd)/Vo) 100

Shrinkage limit of undistributed soil

In this case G is known in advance. The equation to be used for determining Wsis
Ws = [(Vd/Ms)-(1/G)] 100

For the undistributed soil we need to know only the volume of an undistributeddry
pot of soil sample of diameter 45 mm and thickness 15 mm. Round off its edges toprevent the
entrapment of air during mercury displacement. Air dry the sample initially
and then dry over the same. Find its mass (Ms) after cooling it in a desiccator, and thenits
volume Vd by mercury displacement method. Ws may now be found out by use of equation

Ws = [(Vd/Ms)-(1/G)] 100.

Pre-Viva Questions:

1. How to measure shrinkage limit of soil?

2. Why is mercury used to determine the shrinkage limit of soil?
3. What is the density of mercury?
4. What is the difference between undisturbed and remoulded soil?
5. Is the dry unit and unit weight of soil the same?
6. What is meant by Thixotropy?

Result:

The shrinkage limit Ws=------------------

Verification/Validations:

Value of shrinkage limit varies from 13 to 26%.

Conclusion:

The shrinkage limit of soil is .

Post-Viva Question:

1. What is shrinkage limit of soil?

2. If water content is increased above shrinkage limit, what is the effect?

3. Instead of Mercury can we use any other substance as mercury may cause healthhazard.
EXPERIMENT NO 11 DATE:

DETERMINATION OF MAXIMUM DRY DENSITY AND OPTIMUM

MOISTURE CONTENT BY STANDARD PROCTOR COMPACTIONMETHOD

Aim:
To determine moisture content–dry density relationship by Standard proctor test.

Specifications:
The experiment is conducted as per IS 2720-7(1980).

Apparatus:
a) Cylindrical mould,
b) Detachable collar,
c) Rammer of 2.6kg weight,
d) Balance, oven, straight edge, sieves,

Theory:
Compaction is the application of mechanical energy to a soil so as to rearrange its particles and
reduce the void ratio. It is applied to improve the properties of an existing soil or in the process
of placing fill such as in the construction of embankments, road bases, runways, earth dams, and
reinforced earth walls. Compaction is also used to prepare a level surface during construction of
buildings. There is usually no change in the water content and in the size of the individual soil
particles.

The objectives of compaction are:

a) To increase soil shear strength and therefore its bearing capacity.
b) To reduce subsequent settlement under working loads.
c) To reduce soil permeability making it more difficult for water to flow through

To assess the degree of compaction, it is necessary to use the dry unit weight, which is an
indicator of compactness of solid soil particles in a given volume. The laboratory testing is
meant to establish the maximum dry density that can be attained for a given soil with a standard
amount of compactive effort.

1. Bulk density 𝛾𝐵 = M/V

2. Dry density 𝛾𝑑 = 𝛾𝐵 /(1 + w)
 3. Dry density 𝛾𝑑 for zero air voids line.
𝛾𝑑 = G𝛾𝑤 /(1 + (wG/S))

Precautions:
1. Thoroughly breakup the sample by running it through the screen before compacting it in
the mould.
2. Pound within a moisture range from optimum to 4 percent below optimum. Thecloser to
optimum the moisture content is, the more accurate the test will be.
3. Make sure the clamp on each mold section is tight.
4. Make sure the wing nuts on the base plate are secured with equal tension.
5. Place the mould o n a solid block that is supported on firm soil or pavement.
6. Hold the rammer vertically so that it will fall freely.
7. Drop the 25 kg rammer weight freely .Use exactly 25 blows on each layer. 10 Place 3 equal
layers in the mold

Procedure
a) Take around 3kg of air-dried soil sample passing through 4.75mm sieve.
b) Add sufficient water to the sample (about 4-6% for sandy soils and 8-10 % for clay soils),
which will be less than the estimated optimum moisture content. Mix the soil thoroughly.
c) Fix the mould to the base plate and measure the internal diameter and height of the mould.
Calculate the volume. Take the empty weight of the mould along with the base plate (W1).
d) Fill the soil into the mould upto 1/3rd of its height. Compact the layer by giving 25 blows
with 2.6 kg rammer from height of 310mm. The compaction must be uniform over the
whole area. Scratch the layer to obtain the bond between the next layer using spatula.
e) Continue the process to fill the next layer with soil. After filling the 2nd layer, attach the
collar and again fill the mould with soil to complete 3rd layer. The filling must be such that
the last layer projects into the collar by about 5 mm.
f) After the completion of compaction, remove the collar and remove the excess soil with the
help of a straight edge. Find the mass of the mould with the base plate and the soil (W2).
Remove the soil from the mould and take a representative sample of soil for water content
determination.
g) Repeat the test with increase in water content. The test is continued untill concecutive
decrease in value of wet soil is obtained. Calculate dry density from the above equation.
h) Plot the graph of water content vs dry density. The water content corresponding to
maximum dry density is taken as Optimum moisture content.

Observations and tabulation:

The following observations were made on the compaction of a soil by standard proctor test.
Tests were carried out on the selected samples of soil by varying the water content. Water
contents of samples of each test were found out by the procedure explained earlier.

The test results are tabulated below.

 Tabular Column
Internal diameter of mould d = cm Volume of mould V = cm3
Height of mould h = cm

Table 15: Weight of Soil for varying water content

% increase in water content

Empty weight of mould W1 gm

Weight of mould + compacted soil

W2 gm
Bulk density, 𝛾𝐵 g/cm3
Water content determination

Empty weight of container W1gm

Weight off container + wet soil W2 gm

Weight of container + dry soil W3 gm

Water content, w = (W2–W3)/(W3-W1)

Dry density, 𝛾𝑑 , gm/cm3

Pre-Viva Questions:
1. What is the difference between standard proctor test and modified proctor test?
2. What is relative density of soil?
3. What is voids ratio? What is zero air voids line?
4. What is the practical implication of conducting standard proctor test?
5. How to determine OMC of soil? Explain.

Result:
Maximum dry density, 𝛾𝑑 = g/cm3
Optimum moisture content, w =
Verification and Validations:
The peak point of the compaction curve - The peak point of the compaction curve is the point
with the maximum dry density dry density. Corresponding to the maximum dry density ρdmax is
a water content known as the optimum water content.The optimum water content is the water
content that results in the greatest density for a specified compactive effort. Compacting at water
contents higher than the optimum. water content results in a relatively dispersed soil structure
(parallel particle orientations) that is weaker , more ductile, less pervious, softer, more
susceptible to shrinking, and less susceptible to swelling than soil compacted dry of optimum to
the same density.

Zero air voids curve:

The curve represents the fully saturated condition (S = 100 %). (It cannot be reached by compact
ion)

Conclusion:

The maximum density of the soil is with an OMC of . This indicates,

after w%, any additional water addition, there is no gain in strength of soil.

Note:
1. Since we are neglecting the oversized particles ie; soil particles passing 4.75mm is considered
necessary corrections should be applied to the obtained MDD and OMC value.

Post-Viva Question:
1. How is compaction different from consolidation?
2. Did you watch any civil engineering construction compaction is carried out? Explain.
3. Is there any other method other than standard proctor test to determine maximumdensity?