Content Page No

1. Sieve Analysis 4
2. Specific Gravity of Soil Solids 6
3. Standard Method for Fine-Grained Soils (Pipette Method) 10
4. Standard Method for Fine-Grained Soils (Hydrometer Analysis) -
5. Atterbergs Limits Test (Liquid , Plastic and Shrinkage Limits) 15
6. Standard Proctor Compaction Test 19
7. Modified Proctor Compaction Test -
8. Shear Strength of Soil by Triaxial Test (Clay) 21
9. Shear Strength of Soil by Shear Box (Sand) 24
10. Shear Strength of Soil in Field Condition (Vane Shear Test) 29
11. Shear Strength of Soil by Unconfined Compression Test -
12. Relative Density Determination -
13. Constant Head Permeability Test (Coarse-Grained) 31
14. Falling Head Permeability Test (Fine-Grained) 34
15. Consolidation Test 36

1
Experiment 1: Sieve Analysis

Objective
To determine the grain size distribution of soils

Theory
In order to classify a soil for engineering purposes, one needs to know the
distribution of the grain sizes in a given mass. Sieve analysis is a method used to
determine the grain size distribution of the soils. Sieves are made of woven wires
with square openings. Note that as the sieve size number increases, the size of the
openings decreases. For all practical purposes, the No 200 sieve is the sieve with the
smallest opening that should be used for the test.

The method of sieve analysis described here is applicable for soils that are mostly
granular, with some or no fines. Sieve analysis does not provide information about
the shape of the particles.

Apparatus
1. Sieves, a bottom pan, and a cover (Note: Sieve No 4, 10, 20, 40, 60, 140,
and 200 are generally used for most standard sieve analysis work)
2. A balance sensitive to 0.1 g
3. Mortar and pestle
4. Oven
5. Mechanical sieve shaker

Procedure

1. Collect a representative oven-dried soil sample of about 500 g. Samples

with the largest particles being of the size No 4 sieve openings (4.75
mm). For soils with the largest particles of a size greater than 4.75 mm,
larger weights are needed.
2. Break the soil samples into individual particles using a mortar and a
pestle. (Note: The idea is to break up the particles, not to break the
particles themselves)
3. Determine the accurate mass of the sample, M to 0.1 g.
4. Prepare (and weigh) a stack of the sieves. A sieve with larger openings is
places above a sieve with smaller openings. The sieve at the bottom
should be No 200. A bottom pan should be placed under the No 200
sieve. As mentioned before, the sieves that are generally used are No 4,
10, 20, 40, 60, 140, and 200; however, more sieves can be placed in
between.
5. Pour the soil prepared in Step 2 into stack of sieves from the top.
6. Place the cover on the top of the stack of sieves.
7. Run the stack of sieves through a sieve shaker for about 10-15 minutes.
8. Weigh the amount of soil retained on each sieve and in the bottom of the
pan.
9. Weigh the amount of soil retained on each sieve and in the bottom pan.
10. If a considerable amount of soil with silty and clayey faction is retained on
the No 200 sieve, it has to be washed. Washing is done by taking the No
200 sieve with the soil retained on it and pouring water through the sieve
from a tap.
11. When the water passing through the sieve is clear, stop the flow of water.
Transfer the soil retained on the sieve at the end of washing to a

2
 porcelain evaporating dish by backwashing. Put it in the oven to dry to a
constant weight. (Note: Step 10 and 11 are not necessary if the amount
of soil retained on the No 200 sieve is small). Determine the mass of the
dry soil. The difference between this mass and that retained on the No
200 sieve determined in step 9 is the mass of soil that has washed
through.

Result
Description of soil: ________________________________ Sample No: ________
Mass of oven-dry specimen, M: ___________ g
Location: _________________________________________________________
Tested By: _____________________________________ Date: ______________
Sieve Sieve Sieve Mass % Mass Cumulative % Finer
No Opening Weight Retained Retained % Mass
(mm) (g) (g) Retained

Calculation & Discussion

1. Determine the mass loss during sieve analysis.

2. Plot the grain-size distribution obtained from the sieve analysis on
semilogarithmatic graph paper with the grain size on a log scale and
percent finer on a natural scale.
3. Based on the plotted graph, determine the D10, D30, and D60, which are
the corresponding to percent finer of 10%, 30% and 60% respectively.
4. Calculate the coefficient of uniformity, CU and the coefficient of gradation,
CC (also known as coefficient of the curvature), using the following
equations:
Cu = D60 / D10 (1.1)

Cc = D302/ (D60 x D10) (1.2)

5. Determine whether the graph is: Poorly, gap or well graded. Give reason
for your answer
6. Discuss the sources of error that might affect the result.

3
Experiment 2: Specific Gravity of Soil Solids

Objective
To determine the specific gravity of fine-grained and coarse-grained soils

Theory
The specific gravity of a given material is defined as the ratio of the density of a
given volume of the material to the density of an equal volume of distilled water. In
soil mechanics, the specific gravity of soil solids (which is often referred to as the
specific gravity of soil) is an important parameters for calculating the weight-volume
relationship. Thus specific gravity Gs is defined as;

Gs = density of soil solids only (2.1)

density of water

Ms / V s Ms
or = (2.2)
w Vsw

where Ms = mass of soil solids (g)

VS = volume of soil solids (cm3)
w = density of water (g/cm3)

Apparatus

The following tests and equipment are commonly used to determine the specific
gravity.

Specific Gravity Bottle Gas Jar Method: Volumetric Flask Method:

Method: For fine-grained For coarse-grained soils For soil particles smaller
soils than 4.75 mm
Specific gravity bottle (50 Pycnometer bottle (1 L) Volumetric flask (500 ml)
ml) with stopper Glass rod Balance (0.01 g)
Glass rod Balance (0.5 g) Distilled water
Balance (0.001 g) Thermometer Bunsen burner and stand
Oven (and / or vacuum pump)
Temperature bath Thermometer
Wash bottle Spatula
Vacuum desiccator Plastic squeeze bottle
Oven

Procedure 1: Specific Gravity Bottle

1. Wash the density bottle, and dry in the oven at 105-110 0C. Cool in the
desiccators. Weigh the bottle to the nearest 0.0001 g.
2. Obtained a sample of 50-100 g by quartering. A representative sample must
contain gravel size but ground with mortar and pestle. Reduce the sample by
rifting to obtain sample about 30 g. Dry the sample in the oven and cool it to
room temperature in desiccators. The sample should sufficient for at least 3
trials.
3. Place the sample into the bottle directly from the desiccators and weigh the
bottle and the stopper with the soil to the nearest 0.001 g.
4. Detach the stopper and add de-aired water into the bottle about half or three
quarter full. Place the bottle in the vacuum desiccators to remove the air bubbles.

4
 Ensure that no more bubbles are present in the soil. Reduce the pressure
gradually and leave the vacuum for a while.
5. Remove the bottle from the desiccators and stir the soil gently with a rod, wash
the particles adhering to rod back into the bottle with de-aired water. Fill the
bottle until full and place the stopper.
6. Transfer the bottle to the constant water temperature bath so it immersed up to
the neck. Leave for about an hour.
7. Remove the bottle from the bath and wipe it dry with cloth. Avoid prolong
contact with the hands as it increased the temperature. Weigh the bottle (and
stopper) together with water and the soil to the nearest 0.0001 g.
8. Clean the bottle and fill it with de-aired water until full. Insert the stopper and
place the bottle in the bath for about an hour as before. Remove the bottle, wipe
it dry and weight to the nearest 0.001 g.

Procedure 2: Gas Jar

1. About 400 g of coarse-grained soil is sufficient. The sample is dried in the oven
and stored in an air-tight container until further use.
2. The gas jar is dried and ground-plate in the oven and cooled to room
temperature, weigh to the nearest 0.2 g.
3. Half of the prepared sample is filled into the jar. The plate is covered and weigh.
4. Add about 500 ml of de-aired water into the jar. Insert the rubber bung and
allows it to stand for some time. Shake the jar to form soil temperature and is
placed in the shaking stand for some time to form soil suspension and is placed
in the shaking apparatus between 20-30 minutes.
5. Remove the jar from the shaker and the take the bung out carefully to avoid
losing particles. Any particles adhering to the bung should be washed back into
the jar. Fill the jar with more de-aired water to within 2 mm of the top and
allowed to stand for 30 minutes on a flat surface. Fill the jar with water to the
brim.
6. Slide the ground plate ion to the top of the jar with the jar slightly tilted to avoid
trapping any air under the plate. Wipe the jar dry and weigh to the nearest 0.2
g.
7. Empty the jar and wash thoroughly. Fill the water to the brim and slide the glass
plate on the top to remove entrapped air. Wipe dry and weigh to the nearest 0.2
g.

Procedure 3: Volumetric Flask

1. Clean the volumetric flask well and dry it.

2. Carefully fill the flask with de-aired, distilled water up to the 500 ml mark
(bottom of the meniscus should be at the 500 ml mark).
3. Determine the mask of the flask and the water filled to the 500 ml mark (W1).
4. Insert the thermometer into the flask with the water and determine the
temperature at the water T = T10C.
5. Put approximately 100 gram of air dried soil into an evaporating dish.
6. If the soil is cohesive, add water (de-aired) to the soil and mix it to the form of
a smooth paste. Keep it soaked for about half-hour in the evaporating dish.
(Note: This step is not necessary for granular non-cohesive soil).
7. Transfer the soil (paste) into the volumetric mask.
8. Add distilled water to the volumetric flask containing the soil (or the soil paste)
to make it it about 2/3 full.

5
 9. Remove the air from the soil-water mixture by:
Gently boiling the flask for 15-20 minutes, or and bring the temperature
down to T1
Apply vacuum pump to remove entrapped air
10. Add de-aired water into flask until 500 ml. Wipe dry the outside of the flask and
inside the neck above meniscus.
11. Pour the soil and water into an evaporating dish. Use a plastic squeeze bottle
and wash the inside of the flask. Make sure that no soil is left inside.
12. Put the evaporating dish in an oven to dry to a constant weight.
13. Determine the mass of the dry soil in the evaporating dish (WS)

Results & Calculation 1: S.G. Bottle

Sources of sample: _______________________ Room Temperature: ___________

Description of soil: ______________________________

Test no. 1 2 3 4
Mass of bottle (m1) (g)
Mass of bottle + dry soil (m2),
(g)
Mass of bottle + soil + water (m3) ,
g)
Mass of bottle + water (m4) ,
(g)
Specific gravity =
m2 m1
(m4 m1 ) (m3 m2 )

Results & Calculation 2: Gas Jar Method (Pycnometer)

Sources of sample: _____________________ Room Temperature: ___________

Description of soil: ______________________________

Test no. 1 2 3 4

Mass of gas jar and plate (m1), (g)

Mass of gas jar + plate + soil (m2), (g)

Mass of gas jar + plate + soil + water (m3)
(g)
Mass of gas jar + plate + water (m4) , (g)
m2 m1
Specific Gravity =
(m4 m1 ) (m3 m2 )

6
 Results & Calculation 3: Volumetric Flask Method
Sources of sample: _______________________ Room Temperature: ___________
Description of soil: ______________________________

Test no. 1 2 3 4

Mass of flask + water filled to mark (W1), (g)

Mass of flask + soil + water filled to mark
(W2), (g)
Mass of dry soil (Ws) (g)
Mass of equal volume of water as the soil
solids, (Ww) = (W1 + Ws) - W2 , (g)
Specific Gravity = Ws / Ww (at T1)

Calculation & Discussion

1. Convert the S.G values to standard temperature (200C). Show your
calculations. (You need to find the converting formula or table)
2. Report the specific gravity to the nearest 0.05, notice if there are any
differences (in all four trials) in the value of S.G obtained
3. Compare and discuses the value of S.G between fine-grained and coarse-
grained soils.

7
Experiment 3: Standard Method for Fine-Grained Soils (Pipette Method)
Objective:
The method covers the quantitative determination of particle size distribution in a soil
from the coarse sand size down. The test as described is not applicable if less than
10% of the material passes the 63 m BS test sieve.

Introduction:
The particle size analysis of a soil is carried out to determine the weight percentage
falling within bands of size distribution represent size of soil. Where the sample
contain fine-grained particle, wet sieving procedure is first to carry out to remove
these and determine the combined clay/silt fraction percentage. Sub-sample is then
immersed in water containing dispersion agent (sodium hexametaphosphates) before
being washed through 63 m mesh sieve. Sedimentation process in carried out when
particle size distribution in the fine-grained fraction is not possible by sieving method.

Apparatus:
1. A sampling pipette fitted with a pressure and suction inlet, and having a capacity
of approximately 10 ml. The pipette shall be arranged that it can be inserted to
a fixed depth into a sedimentation tube, see (2), when the latter is immersed in a
constant temperature bath.
2. 2 glass sedimentation tubes, 50 mm diameter and approximately 350 mm long
graduated at 500 ml volume with rubber bungs to fit.
3. 9 glass weighing bottles, approximately 25 mm in diameter and 50mm high fitted
with ground glass stoppers. The masses of the bottles shall be known to the
nearest 0.001g.
4. A constant temperature bath capable of being maintained at 25C, to occupancy
of 0.1 C into which the sedimentation tube can be immersed up to the 500ml
mark. The bath shall not vibrate the sample.
5. Mechanical shaker capable of keeping 20 g of soil and 150 ml of water in
continuous suspension.
6. British Standard sieves as follows: 2 mm, 600 m, 212 m, 63 m and
appropriate receivers.
7. A sample divider of the multiple spot type (riffle box)
8. A balance readable and accurate to 0.001 g.
9. A thermostatically controlled drying oven, capable of maintaining a temperature
of 105C to 110C.
10. A stop clock or stop watch.
11. A desiccator (200 mm to 250 mm in diameter) containing anhydrous silica gel.
12. A 650 ml or 1 liter conical beaker and a cover glass to fit and smaller beaker.
13. A centrifuge capable of holding 250 ml capacity bottles.
14. 250 ml capacity polypropylene centrifuge bottles.
15. A 100 ml measuring cylinder.
16. A 25 ml pipette.
17. A glass filter funnels about 100 mm in diameter.
18. A wash bottle containing distilled water.
19. A length of glass rod about 150 mm to 200 mm long and 4 mm to 5 mm in
diameter fitted at one end with a rubber policeman.

8
Reagent:
1. Hydrogen Peroxide. A 20 volume solution.
2. Sodium hexametaphosphate (33g of sodium hexametaphosphate and 7g of
sodium carbonate dissolved in distilled water to make 1 liter of solution)
Material:
Sands and clay soils

Procedure:
A. Pretreatment of Soil
1. Add 30g of soils (clay and sand) into a 650ml/1000ml a conical beaker.
2. Add 50ml of distilled water into the beaker.
3. Heat the solution in the beaker until its composition is decreased to 40ml.
4. After cooling add 75ml of hydrogen peroxide into the beaker.
5. Closed the lid for one night
6. Heat the beaker again until its composition decreased to 50ml.
7. Transfer the solution in the beaker into a centrifuge bottle (where its mass is
already being weight) and add distilled water until the solution is 200ml.
8. Close the centrifuge bottle and centrifuged it for 20 minute with 2000
rev/min.
9. Keep the centrifuged bottle in an oven for a night until it is completely dry.
10. Then allow the centrifuge bottle to cool in desiccators and the left over soil in
the centrifuge bottle is weight.

B. Dispersion of Soil
1. Add 100ml of distilled water into the soil in the centrifuged bottle from
previous step and then stirred vigorously to bring the soil into suspension.
2. Add 25ml of sodium hexametaphosphate into the centrifuged bottle and then
shake on the mechanical device for 20 minutes.
3. Transfer the solution into the 63m BS test sieve placed on the receiver and
wash the soil on the sieve using distilled water.
4. Weigh the material retained on the 2mm, 600m, 212m and 63m. Each
mass recorded on these sieve then distributed as mass gravel, coarse,
medium and fine sand in the sample (mg, mcs, mms, mfs respectively)
5. Transfer the material passing 63m sieve into a sedimentation tube.

C. Sedimentation
1. Add 25ml of sodium hexametaphospate into a sedimentation tube and
distilled water is added until the composition in the sedimentation tube is
500ml.
2. Place the sedimentation tube in a temperature bath at 25C (make sure the
temperature at temperature bath is higher than the temperature at the
sedimentation tub).
3. Approximately 1 hour later, temperature at the temperature bath is equal to
the temperature at the sedimentation tube. Stir the sedimentation tube and
record the initial time before sample is taken using a pipette. 3 samples from
the sedimentation tube (10ml) are taken using a pipette.
Sample 1, M1 after 4 min 5 sec
Sample 2, M2 after 46 min 0 sec
Sample 2, M2 after 6 hours 54 min
4. Place each sample into a different small beaker that already been cleaned
and weight. The samples are then let dried in an oven and later cooled in
desiccators. The left over is weight as m1, m2 and m3.

9
Result:
A. Pretreatment of Soil
1. Weight of sample = _____ g clay + ___g
sand
2. Volume of distilled water = 50ml
3. Volume of hydrogen peroxide = 75ml
4. Weight of centrifuge bottle = _______ g
5. Weight of centrifuge bottle + dried soil =________ g
6. Weight of the dried soil, m =________ g

B. Dispersion of Soil
1. Volume of distilled water = 100g
2. Volume of sodium hexametaphosphate solution = 25ml
3. Shaking time = 1 hour
nd
4. Second wet sieving (final weight taken after drying the 2 wet sieving)

Sieve size Initial weight Final weight Weight retained

2mm, mg
600mm, mcs
212mm, mms
65m, mfs

C. Sedimentation
1. Volume of sodium hexametaphosphate solution : 25ml
2. Temperature of the bath : ___ 0C
3. Volume of pipette and tap (Vp) : 10ml
4. Dried weight of soils
Time(after Weighing Weighing bottle+dried Dried
shaking) bottle, (g) sample,(g) sample,(g)
m1 4min 5sec
m2 46min 0sec
m3 6hours 54min
m4 24hours

Result & Calculation:

A. The mass of pretreated soil (m) shall be used to calculate the percentages below:
1. The percentage of gravel in the original sample shall be calculated from the
following equation;
100m g
Percentage gravel (over 2.0mm) =
m
2. The percentage of coarse sand in the original sample shall be calculated from
the following equation;
100mcs
Percentage coarse sand (2.0mm to 0.6mm) =
m
3. The percentage of gravel in the original sample shall be calculated from the
following equation;
100mms
Percentage medium sand (0.6mm to 0.2 mm) =
m

10
4. The percentage of gravel in the original sample shall be calculated from the
following equation;
100m fs
Percentage fine sand (0.2mm to 0.06mm) =
m

B. The mass of solid material in 500 ml of suspension for each respective sampling
time shall be calculated from the equation:
W1 - is the material in 500 ml from the first sampling (g)
M 1 500 g
W1= Vp

W2 - is the material in 500 ml from the second sampling (g)

M 2 500 g
W= Vp

W3 - is the material in 500 ml from the third sampling (g)

M 3 500 g
W3= Vp

W4 - is the mass of sodium hexametaphosphate in 500 ml (g)

M 4 500 g
W4= Vp

Vp is the calibrated volume of the pipette (ml)

i) The percentage of medium silt in the original sample shall be calculated from the
following equation :
W1 W2
Percentage medium silt (0.02mm to 0.006 mm) = 100 %
m

ii) The percentage of fine silt in the original sample shall be calculated from the
following equation:
W2 W3
Percentage fine silt (0.006mm to 0.002 mm) = 100 %
m
iii) The percentage of clay in the original sample shall be calculated from the
following equation:
W3 W4
Percentage clay (less than 0.002 mm) = 100 %
m
iv) The percentage of medium silt in the original sample shall be calculated from the
following equation:

Percentage coarse silt (0.06 mm to 0. 02 mm)

m (mg mcs mms mfs w1 w4 )
= x 100%
m

11
C. Plot the grain size distribution of % of gravel, coarse sand, medium sand, fine
sand, medium silt, fine silt, clay and coarse silt on a semi-logarithmic graph
paper, and then determine the coefficient of uniformity, CU and the coefficient of
gradation, CC (also known as coefficient of the curvature), using the following
equations:
Cu = D60 / D10 (1.1)

Cc = D302/ (D60 x D10) (1.2)

12
Experiment 4: Standard Method for Fine-Grained Soils (Hydrometer
Analysis)
Objective:
To determine the particle size distribution in a soil for fraction that is finer than 0.075
mm.

Theory:
In hydrometer analysis, a soil specimen is dispersed in water. In a dispersed state in
the water, the soil particles will settle individually. It is assumed that the soil particles
are spheres, and the velocity of the particles can be given by Stokes law,

v = s - W. D2.
18
Where v = velocity (cm/s)
Result:
Gs: ______________________________________ Hydrometer type: ___________

Dry mass of soil, MS: ________ g. Temperature of test, T :__________________ 0C

Zero correction FZ __________, Meniscus Correction, Fm: ______________________

Temperature Correction: FT __________________________________ (Equation 5.6)

Time Hydrometer RCP Percent RCL L, A D,

(min) Reading, R finer, (cm) (mm)
(a*RCP/50)
x 100
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (7) (8)
(6)
0.25
0.5
1
2
4
8
15
30
60
120
240
480
1440
2880

Graph & Calculation:

1. Plot the grain-size distribution graph on semilog paper with percent finer
(column 4) on natural scale and D (column 8) on a log scale.
2. Determine the coefficient of uniformity, CU and the coefficient of gradation, CC
(also known as coefficient of the curvature), using the following equations:
Cu = D60 / D10 (1.1)

Cc = D302/ (D60 x D10) (1.2)

13
Experiment 5: Atterberg Limits Test

Objective
To determine the liquid and plastic of soils

Theory
When a cohesive soil is mixed with an excessive amount of water, it will be in a
somewhat liquid state and flow like a viscous liquid. However, when this liquid is
dried gradually, with loss of moisture it will pass into a plastic state. With further
reduction of moisture, the soil will pass into a semisolid and then into a solid state.

The moisture content (in percent) at which the cohesive soil will pass from a liquid
state to a plastic state is called the liquid limit (LL) of the soil. Similarly, the moisture
content (in percent) at which the soil changes from a plastic to a semisolid state and
from a semisolid to a solid state are referred to as plastic limit (PL) and shringkage
limit (SL), respectively. These limits are referred to as Atterberg Limits.

In this experiment, the LL is determined by Casagrande apparatus / cone

penetration, the PL is determined by rolling hand method and the SL is determined
by using glass plate.

Apparatus (for LL)

1. Spatula
2. Wash bottle (with water)
3. Moisture content cans (6)
4. Balance (accurate to 0.01g or higher)
5. Oven
6. Casagrande device and Cone penetration device
7. Grooving tool

Apparatus (for PL)

1. (1-5 of above) plus
2. Flat glass plate
3. Porcelain evaporating dish

Procedure (LL Using Casagrande device)

1. Some air-dried sample which has been matured in an airtight container at
approximately the starting moisture content are prepared (this would make it
easier and quicker to mix the soil).
2. For the LL, the sufficient amount of soil between 300-400g is prepared but
for the PL, a few grams (about 20mm ball) should be set aside to dry if it
already plastic.
3. The soil is mixed thoroughly on the glass plate to form soil paste by using
spatula. The starting water content should give about 70 blows Casagrande.
This will have to be trial and trial and error (and later by experience). More
water gives less blow and vice versa

14
 .
4. The soil paste is placed in the cup by using the spatula and the sample is
pressed slightly to remove air voids. The surface of the sample should be
approximately horizontal.
5. The soil sample is cut at the center by the grooving tool to form a groove
running across the soil sample towards you.
6. The counter is set at zero and the handle of the tool is winded to close the
groove (in plan) for 10mm. If the count exceeds 70 (or beyond the limit of
the flow chart), the soil from cup is removed and remixed with additional
water on the glass plate. After mixing place the soil paste back in the cup and
step (5) above is repeated. The counter set again at zero and the blows is
counted to close the groove for 10mm.
7. If the first starting point is obtained (which gives blow counts of about 70), a
little soil sample is took from the cup and placed in the moisture content
container for water content determination.
8. The soil sample is removed from the cup, returning to the glass plate and
combined it with the remaining sample. Water is added and mixed thoroughly
as before. Step (6) is repeated and this time the blow count should be less
than in the first trial. The aim is to obtain four to five points spread over the
range 70 to 10 blows on the flow curve.
9. The procedure is repeated of at least four to five times at different water
content values. The readings are recorded and the calculation in the form is
provided.

Procedure (LL Using Fall Cone Method)

1. Prepare the soil mixed as in previous method, and then place soil sample in
the penetration cup by using the spatula and the sample is pressed slightly to
remove air voids. The surface of the sample should be approximately
horizontal.
2. Low the penetration cone slightly touching the surface of the soil before
setting the penetrometer gauge to zero.
3. The cone penetrometer is released and penetration depth (in mm) is taken.
Repeat for more accurate result.
4. The procedure is repeated of at least four to five times at different water
content values. The readings are recorded and the calculation in the form is
provided.

15
 Procedure (for PL)
1. For the plastic limit test, a small quantity of the sample set aside in (From
step 2 in casagrande method) is dried in the hand by rolling it on the glass
plate to from soil thread until it crumbles (or cracks) when its diameter is
about 3mm.
2. Sufficient amount of this sample (say 15g) and placed it directly in the
moisture content container for water content determination.

Results:
Liquid Limit (Casagrande device)
Test no. 1 2 3 4 5
No. of blows
No of blows(average)
Container no.
Mass of container (g)
Mass of container +
wet soil (g)
Mass of container +
dry soil (g)
Mass of water(g)
Mass of dry soil (g)
Moisture Content (%)
Liquid Limit (Fall Cone Method)
Test no. 1 2 3 4 5
Penetration (mm)
Average Penetration
(mm)
Container no.
Mass of container (g)
Mass of container +
wet soil (g)
Mass of container +
dry soil (g)
Mass of water(g)
Mass of dry soil (g)
Moisture Content (%)

Plastic Limit
Container no. 1 2 3 4
Mass of container (g)
Mass of container +
wet soil (g)
Mass of container +
dry soil (g)
Mass of water(g)
Mass of dry soil (g)
Moisture Content (%)

16
Calculation & Discussion:
1. Plot the flow line (also known as liquid state line) of LL (Casagrande)
results between water content (arithmetic scale) versus number of blow
(logarithmic scale). The LL (in %) is read from the graph as the water
content on the line corresponding to 25 blows.
2. Plot the flow line of LL (fall cone method) results between water content
(arithmetic scale) versus depth of penetration (arithmetic scale). The LL
(in %) is read from the graph as the water content on the line
corresponding to 20 mm depth.
3. Using the average of the 2 LLs, determine the Plasticity Index (PI) of the
soil.
4. Plot your result on the plasticity chart and classify the soil.
5. Compare and discuss the advantages and/or disadvantages of both LL
determination methods.

17
Experiment 6: Standard Proctor Compaction Test

Objective
To determine the relationship between dry density and water content of a given soil.

Theory
Compaction is the densification of soil by mechanical means such as vibration, rolling
and tamping. During compaction, air will be expelled from the soil voids resulting in
lower void ratio. The purpose of compaction is to improve the soil properties,
examples; increase the shear strength, reduce compressibility and improve soil
bearing capacity and etc.

Compaction is measured by the soil dry density. In the test, soil sample will be
compacted in a mould at different water contents and the bulk densities were
determined. Knowing the bulk density and water content, the dry density can be
determined at these water contents.

Apparatus
1. Compaction mould 100 mm diameter and 100 mm high, with collar and base
plate
2. Spatula
3. Straight edge
4. Moisture content tin (at least 5)
5. 2.5 kg rammer falling through 300 mm
6. Aluminum tray for mixing soil (about 1 m x 1 m)
7. 1000 ml cylinder
8. Extruder for 100 mm diameter sample
9. Air-dried soil

Procedure
1. Attach the compaction mould to the collar and base plate provided and
tighten with nuts.
2. Prepare an air-dried sample of about 2.5 kg in weight. Remove any particles
greater than 20 mm in size by sieving. The soil should be free from broken
wood, stones chipping and clay lumps.
3. Place the sample on a tray and break the soil into smaller pieces and fines by
using a mattock or suitable metal rod. Spread it over the tray for easy mixing
with water.
4. Fill a cylinder with water. The first trial should give a water content of
between 5-10% of the dried weight (estimated about 150-250 ml of water).
Sprinkle the water on the soil and mix them thoroughly by using hand roller
or screed. The intention is to distribute the water evenly in the soil mix.
5. Divide the mix into three portions on the tray. Fill the first portion of the soil
mix in the mould and compact it by using a rammer for 27 blows. The soil
surface in the mould should be compacted at a different points so that the
compaction energy is evenly distributed throughout the compacted sample.
6. Scarify the surface of the compacted soil so as to provide a uniform mass and
to avoid soil interfacing. Compact the next layer of soil as before, making
sure that the finished compacted layer should be above the mould top.
7. Slowly detach the collar from the mould and trim off the soil surface by using
a straight edge. Weigh the soil together with the mould and base plate.
8. Detach the base plate. Remove the compacted soil fully from the mould by
using an extruder.

18
 9. Break the soil cylinder into loose and small pieces again in the tray. Repeat
step (2)-(7) as before and in each trial add the amount of water in the soil
sample until the density of the compacted soils start to drop. You should have
at least two values of water content where the density of the compacted soil
starts decreasing.
10. Clean the apparatus you have used and place them in the proper place.

Result:

Mass of soil used : kg

Source of soil :
Description of soil :
Volume of mould : m3
Mass of mould + base : kg

Trial No 1 2 3 4 5 6
Mass of soil + mould + base (kg)

Mass of soil (kg)

Bulk density of soil, (kg/ m3)
Container No
Mass of container (g)
Mass of wet soil + container (g)
Mass of dry soil + container (g)
Mass of water (g)
Mass of dry soil (g)
Water content (%), w
Dry density of soil, d (kg/m3)
Dry density of soil, d at 0 % air
voids, Va
Dry density of soil, d at 5 % air voids,
Va
Dry density of soil, d at 10 % air
voids, Va

Assume that Gs = 2.6, w = 1000 kg/m2 and given,

Dry density, d = /(1+ w)
Dry density, d = Gsw(1-Va)/( 1+ Gsw)

Calculation & Discussion:

1. Plot the compaction curve of the soil (dry density versus water content) and
determine the optimum water content and maximum dry density of the soil.
2. Plot the 0, 5 and 10% air void lines. Give reasons why the 0% air void line never
touches the compaction curve.
3. If you were to carry out the modified compaction on the same soil (where higher
compaction energy is delivered to the soil), what would be the position of the
new curve and why? (Show the line on your graph).
4. What are the factors affecting the degree of compaction?

19
Experiment 8: Shear Strength of Soil by Triaxial Test
Objective:
To determine the shear strength parameters of a cohesive soil
Theory:
A triaxial shear test is a common method to measure the mechanical properties of
many deformable solids, especially soil, sand, clay, and other granular materials or
powders. The principle behind a triaxial shear test is that the stress applied in the
vertical direction (along the axis of the cylinder) can be different than the stress
applied in the horizontal directions (along the sides of the cylinder). This produces a
non-hydrostatic stress state, which contains shear stress. There are several
variations on the test:
CD Consolidated drained
CU Consolidated undrained (ASTM D4767)
UU Unconsolidated undrained (ASTM D2850)
The stress on the platens is increased until the material in the cylinder fails and
forms sliding regions within itself, known as shear bands. A motion where a material
is deformed under shear stress is known as shearing. The geometry of the shearing
in a triaxial tester typically causes the sample to become shorter while bulging out
along the sides. The stress on the platen is then reduced and the water pressure
pushes the sides back in, causing the sample to grow taller again. This cycle is
usually repeated several times while collecting stress and strain data about the
sample. From the triaxial test data, it is possible to extract fundamental material
parameters about the sample, including its angle of internal friction, apparent
cohesion, and dilatancy angle

Apparatus:
1. Triaxial cell
2. Strain-controlled compression machine
3. Soil specimen (prepared)
4. Membrane stretcher (connected to a vacuum source)
5. Moisture can dish
6. Rubber membrane
7. Membrane stretcher

Procedure:

1. Take the initial measurement of the soil samples (weight, diameter, height,
moisture from sample leftover)
2. Attach the bottom platen to the base of the cell, and place the porous stone to
the bottom platen.
3. Take a thin rubber membrane and fit it to the inside of the membrane stretcher
which is connected to a vacuum source. Lap the ends of the membrane over
the vacuum stretcher, then suck the tube of vacuum stretcher (or use vacuum
pressure if available). This will make the membrane to form a smooth cover
inside the stretcher.
4. Slip the specimen inside the stretcher with the membrane. Release the vacuum
and unroll the membrane from inside of the stretcher.
5. Place the soil specimen over the bottom porous stone (which is placed on the
bottom platen) and stretch the bottom end of the membrane around the

20
 porous stone and bottom platen. At this time, place the top porous stone and
the top platen on the specimen, and stretch the top of the membrane over it.
6. Using some rubber band, tightly fasten the membrane around the top and
bottom of the platens.
7. Connect the drainage line to the base of the triaxial cell.
8. Place the Lucite cylinder and the top of the triaxial cell on the base plate to
complete the assembly.
9. Make proper adjustment so that the piston of the triaxial cell (with specimen
inside) just rest on the top of the specimen.
10. Fill the chamber of the triaxial cell with water. Apply hydrostatic pressure to the
specimen through fluid. (Note: Close all drainage before switching on the tap).
11. Take the initial readings for all gauges.
12. Set the compression machine for a strain rate of about 0.5% per minute and
turn the switch on. Take all gauges readings until sample failed.
13. After completion of the test, reverse the compression machine, lower the
triaxial cell, then turn off the machine. Release the chamber pressure and drain
the water.
14. Determine the end measurement of the soil samples (weight, diameter, height,
moisture from sample after 24 hours )

Results

Item Quantity Quantity Quantity

1. Moist mass of the specimen
(end), W1
2. Dry mass of the specimen, W2
3. Moisture content, %
4. Initial length of the specimen, L0
5. Initial diameter of the specimen,
D0
6. Initial area of the specimen, A0
7. Specific Gravity of solid
8. Final degree of saturation, Sr
9. Cell confining pressure 50 100 150
10. Proving ring calibration factor

21
Result Table for Sample 1

Specimen Vertical strain Proving ring dial Piston Load, P Corrected area A Deviatory stress,
Deformation = L/L readings (No of (3) x proving = A0/(1-) = P/A
(L) mm small division) ring calibration
factor
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)

Calculation
1. Draw a graph of the axial strain (%) versus deviatory stress (). From this
graph, obtain the value of at failure (this is f).
2. The minor principal stress (total) on the specimen at failure is 3 (i.e the
chamber confining pressure, 50, 100 and 150 respectively). Calculate the major
principal stress (total) at failure as
1 = 3 + f
3. Draw the Mohrs circle with 1 and 3 as the major and minor principal
stresses. The radius of the Mohrs circle is equal to cU.

22
Experiment 9: Direct Shear Box

Objective:
To determine the shear strength parameters of a dry granular soil
Introduction:
A direct shear test is a laboratory test used by geotechnical engineers to find the
shear strength parameters of soil. In the U.S., the standard defining how the test
should be performed is ASTM D 3080. The test is performed on three or four
specimens from a relatively undisturbed soil sample. A specimen is placed in a shear
box which has two stacked rings to hold the sample; the contact between the two
rings is at approximately the mid-height of the sample. A confining stress is applied
vertically to the specimen, and the upper ring is pulled laterally until the sample fails,
or through a specified strain. The load applied and the strain induced is recorded at
frequent intervals to determine a stress-strain curve for the confining stress. Direct
Shear tests can be performed under several conditions. The sample is normally
saturated before the test is run, but can be run at the in-situ moisture content. The
rate of strain can be varied to create a test of dense or loose conditions, depending
whether the strain is applied slowly enough for water in the sample to prevent pore-
water pressure buildup.

Theory:
The shear strength of soil is defined as the maximum resistance of the soil to
shearing stress under any given conditions. The shear strength of soil is defined by
the Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion which states that shear occurs in a soil when the
shear stress on any plane equals its shear strength and that the shear strength on
any plane. There are two forces(stress) acting a normal stress, , due to an applied
vertical load Fv and is shearing stre,ss , due to the horizontal load Fh. These
stresses are simply computed as:
= Fv /A = Fh /A
where A is the nominal area of the specimen (of the shear box). These stresses
should satisfy Coulombs equation:
= c + tan

where c is the apparent cohesion and is the angle of internal friction. In principle
the shear box test is an angle of friction test in which one portion of soil made to

23
shear along another by the action of steadily increasing horizontal force while a
constant load is applied normal to the plane of relative movement.

Apparatus:
1. Shear box for sample 60mm square and approximately 30mm thick with groove
plates for transmitting shear and loading platen.
2. Loading frame for sear and hangar for applying direct (normal) stress.
3. Multiple gear constant speed drive unit, electric power.
4. Proving ring or load measuring ring with integral dial gauge (0.02mm).
5. Dial gauge for vertical deflection, division.
6. Dial gauge for horizontal movement of shear.
7. Stop clock for timing the horizontal, shearing motion.
8. Balance.
9. Set of weights 10 kg and 20kg.
10. Compaction tamper, long steel bar approximately 300 mm long and 20 mm
diameter.

Material:
Supply of air-dried sand.
Procedures:
Loose state
1. Weigh the hanger, spacing blocks, groove plate and top half of the shear box
together. This will serve as the first normal load on the sample (say H kg)
2. Unwind the handle of the drive motor (gear in neutral) so that the loading
ram is about 2mm extended. Put it back in gear A1. Wind back the screw
behind the proving ring. Checked that the proving ring is zero while the box is
being loaded.
3. Place the two halves of the shear box in the outer container. Fix the two
parts of the box together by two fixing screws so that the box is fixed in
position while sample is being placed into it.
4. Put the lower spacing block and the groove plate transverse to the direction
of shear. Push the box is hard to the drive side to avoid slack motion later.

24
 5. Pour the sand from a low height to fill the box up to about 2mm below the
top. Gently level the surface with a rulerso as not to cause compaction. Place
the top groove plate transverse to shear.
6. Place the top platen to make sure that it does not rest on the edges of the
box. Place the hanger on the top platen centrally.
7. Swing the vertical dial gauge into the hanger and set the reading to about
500 divisions (this is just arbitrary reading for convenience so that upward or
downward deflections may be measured).
8. Slide the horizontal dial gauge (to measure horizontal movement of the box)
the right and a few divisions of displacement are applied so that its plunger is
in contact with the outer vertical edge of the box.
9. Unscrew the setting screws and replace them in the corners of the box. The
vertical gauge is set to 500 divisions with the outer rim adjustment. Apply a
few divisions of load on the proving ring to ensure avoid any slack motion
later. This should be taken as an initial (zero) load at zero time and at zero
horizontal displacement.
10. Set the stop clock to zero and machine at gear A1. Start the motor and stop
clock simultaneously. Read the proving ring load divisions, the vertical dial
and the horizontal dial all in divisions at convenient time (Every 10s or 15s)
11. When the proving ring readings have become constant or shows reducing
load stop the motor. Take off the weights. The vertical gauge is swing back
and the motor (in neutral position) is winded back to allow box to be
removed.
12. Pour the sand in a tray and cleans the box replacing it back into the outer
container. Repeat steps (2) - (11) as before and this time add load to the
sample by (H+10kg) and (H+20kg). Three trials for the loose sample should
be attempted.

Dense state
For the dense state the sand is compacted into the box and again by striking the top
platen vertically 10 to 20 times with the tamper until it does not go down anymore
(the box should be almost full initially). Then the hanger is placed. The rest of the
procedural steps are similar with loose state.

Results:

Dense States

Table for Shear Load versus time (Dense States) with corresponding weights. Note:
Depends on the type of soil, longer table column might be needed.
Times (s) Shear Load (N)
5.5kg 15.5kg 25.5kg

25
Table for Vertical Displacement versus time (Dense States) with corresponding
weights
Times (s) Vertical displacement (x10-3mm)
5.5kg 15.5kg 25.5kg

Table for Horizontal Displacement versus time (Dense States) with corresponding
weights.

Times (s) Horizontal displacement (x10-2mm)

5.5kg 15.5kg 25.5kg

Loose States

Table for Shear Load versus time (Loose States) with corresponding weights
Times (s) Shear Load (N)
5.5kg 15.5kg 25.5kg

26
Table for Vertical Displacement versus time (Loose States) with corresponding
weights
Times (s) Vertical Displacement (x10-3mm)
5.5kg 15.5kg 25.5kg

Table for Horizontal Displacement versus time (Loose States) with corresponding
weights
Times (s) Horizontal Displacement (x10-2mm)
5.5kg 15.5kg 25.5kg

Calculation & Discussion:

1. Plot all the readings versus time (you can use different graph papers for the
loose and dense states).
2. Plot graphs versus displacement (vertical and horizontal) for all samples (loose
and dense).
3. At failure condition, calculate the normal and shear stress.
4. Plot the values of shear stress versus normal stress for all samples (loose and
dense). Do you get a nice straight line?
5. Determine the shear strength parameters (cohesion and angle of friction) of the
soil (both loose and dense).
6. Compare the shape of the graph for loose and displacement.
7. Explain the scatter of the results you obtained with respect to Mohr-Coulomb
failure line.
8. Discuss the disadvantages of shear box test in terms of test method, sample
preparation and applicability of the result.

27
Experiment 10: Vane Shear Test

Objective:
To determine the shear stress of soft clay that is not flowing.

Theory:
Vane Shear test is one of the tests used to determine the strength of soft clay and
stable which is not flowing. It is always used in drains and digging process to a depth
that is not altered by any changing of the drying or the digging procedure. This test
was conducted with the Ram tester.

Instrument:
1. Vanes handle (1)
2. Piling spring (3)
3. Upper side of Vane (4)
4. Scale (5)
5. down side of Vane (8)
6. Three types of Vane of four walled-pointed ends like the one listed in the table
below:

Size = [Gp x height (mm)] Factor Shear strength (kPa) Area ratio*
16 x 32 2 0-160 14
20 x 40 1 0-130 16.5

25.4 x 50.8 0.5 0-65 24

* The ratio between the cross-section areas of the Ram to the cross-section area
of the sheared soil

Procedure:
1. Connect the Vane (11) with a connection rod using the Vaneborer instrument.
In the connecting process, grip the down side of Vane with extra care.
2. Press the Vane into the soil to the wanted position.
3. Set the scale (5) to zero.
4. Turn the handle (1) in the clockwise direction with a constant velocity.
5. The failure is reached when the down side (8) of the Vane rotates together
with the upper side (4) and stop.
6. Grip the handle firmly and the slowly let it turn itself back to zero.
7. Record the scales reading. Record also the position and depth of the hole.
8. Let the scale turn back to zero in the anticlockwise direction.
9. The same test were conducted with a different venue by doing the same
procedure from (3)-(9).

(To determine the shear strength of remolded (lab) sample, the Vane is turned
with a very fast motion to an amount of 25 rounds. Scale were set to zero back
and reading were taken at least 2 measurement with the Vane turned slowly.
The smallest value is considered the correct value)

28
Calculation and Results:
Location 1:
Description of location :
Size (mm) [Gp Scale Reading Shear Strength
Average(kPa) Factor
x height (mm)] (kPa) (kPa)

16 x 32

20 x 40

25.4 x 50.8

Location 2:
Description of location :
Size (mm) [Gp Scale Reading Shear Strength
Average(kPa) Factor
x height (mm)] (kPa) (kPa)

16 x 32

20 x 40

25.4 x 50.8

Location 3:
Description of location :
Size (mm) [Gp Scale Reading Shear Strength
Average(kPa) Factor
x height (mm)] (kPa) (kPa)

16 x 32

20 x 40

25.4 x 50.8

Calculation:

1. Determine the average shear strength of the soil tested.

2. Do you think the test is suitable for sandy soil? Why?

29
Experiment 13: Constant Head Permeability

Objective:
To determine the coefficients of coarse-grained and fine-grained soils

Theory:
Permeability is measurement of the ease with which water flows through rocks and
soils. In this class experiment we are going to find the coefficients of permeability of
coarse-grained by constant head permeameter.

Apparatus:
1. Constant head permeameter filled with sand sample (interior diameter 76.2
mm) with water supply (pumping circuit if available). The cell is provided with
three nipples at different points on the exterior. The arrangement shown is
for upward flow to reduce the risks of air bubbles being trapped if flow is
downward.
2. Measuring cylinder 1L capacity.
3. Stop watch.
4. Thermometer (if temperature correction is required).

Procedures:
1. Connect the water tap of the sink to the top of the water reservoir located
above the permeameter. Turn on the water tap later.
2. Open the inlet valve of the permeameter fully (located at the base) so that
water can flow in the permeameter and out through the overflow outlet into
the sink. This will form a continous flow of the water through the soil sample.
3. Observe the levels of water in the three open-ended tube of the manometer
board and make sure the levels are steady before taking readings.
4. Measure the distance between the tapping points on the permeameter l1 and
12.
5. Measure the discharge of flow through the soil by using a measuring cylinder
within a given time. Record the levels of water in the manometer (r1, r2, r3).
6. Adjust the rate of discharge turning the inlet valve of the permemeter. The
step (5) was repeated as above. Take at least three values of discharge .

Results:
Q t r1 r2 r3 h1= h2= l1 l2
(cm3) (sec) (cm) (cm) (cm) (r1-r2) (r2-r3) (cm) (cm)
(cm) (cm)

30
Calculation:
Q
From the Darcys law for one dimensional flow v
At
Where A is the sample cross-sectional area and v is in cm/s, I is the hydraulic
gradient equal to h/l.
v vl1 l 2
Therefore k and k ave in cm/s
i r1 r3
D 2 7.622
A is constant 45.604 cm 2
4 4

i1 i2 v (cm/s) k1 (cm/s) k2 (cm/s) kave

(cm/s)

Discussion:
1. Calculate the coefficient of permeability of the soil in cm/s.
2. Compare the values between k1 and k2. Note any difference between the
two
3. Is k increasing with or decreasing with v? Why?

31
32
Experiment 14: Falling/Variable Head Permeability

Objective:
To determine the coefficient of permeability of fine-grained soils

Theory:
In fine-grained soils the flow of water takes place at a much slower rate. Therefore it
is not possible to obtain a measurable amount of water within a reasonable time. In
this experiment, the coefficients of permeability of fine-grained soil will be found by
falling (or variable) head permeameter.

Apparatus:
1. Falling head permeameter cell filled with compacted cohesive sample (diameter
100mm and nominal diameter 100mm) with drainage arrangement shown in
figure. The cell is immersed in water to ensure full saturation of the sample. The
permeameter is provided with a downward flow for easy operation (although
upwards is preferable to expel air). The cell is connected to three different
diameters of open-tube attached to a manometer board. The diameters of the
tube are 1.3mm, 2.3mm, and 4.00mm. Note the scale readings on the
manometer board.
2. Stop watch
3. Thermometer (if temperature correction is required)

Procedures:
1. Turn on the tap to let water enter the inlet valve of the permeameter. Open all
valves on the drainage line and on the manometer board to drive air bubbles
from the system. Then, close valves A, B and C.
2. Close Valve 2 . Open Valve 1 and Valve A on the board to allow water to enter
the tubes as far as it can go. Close Valve 1 .
3. Open Valve 2 and valve A. This will cause the water level in tube A to fall down
slowly. The times are taken for the level to drop from 100mm (h1) to 70mm (h2)
and 50mm (h3) in a continuous manner. It is easier to assign t = 0 when the
level reaches the 100mm mark.
4. Step (3) is repeated as before. The rate of flow through the tube is reduced by
turning the valve clockwise. At least three values of discharges should be
attempted.
5. Step (2) to step (4) is repeated for tube B and C. Three sets of reading should
be taken for each tube.

33
Results:

h1 = 100mm
h2 = 70mm
h3 = 50mm
A = Cross-sectional area of sample = 7853.982 mm2
a = Cross-sectional area of the tube
Length of soil, l = 150mm

Tube No. t1 (s) t2 (s) t3 (s) t2 t1 (s) t3 t2 (s)

A 0
0
0
B 0
0
0
C 0
0
0

Calculation & Discussion:

Tube No. k1 k2 Average k

(mms-1) (mms-1) (mms-1)
A

1. Using formula,

al h
k1 2.3 log 10 1
A(t 2 t1 ) h2

Calculate the average permeability of the soil from each tube.

2. Observe the change in k with diameter of tube (if any).
3. How is the change of k with velocity with each tube?
4. Compare the value of k in this test with k obtained from constant head test.

34
Experiment 15: Consolidation Test

Objective
To determine the void ratio versus pressure curve (e versus log p), the coefficient of
consolidation, Cv.versus pressure curve and the preconsolidation pressure, p0.

Theory
Consolidation is the process of time-dependent settlement of saturated clayey soil
when subjected to increased loading.

Apparatus
1. Consolidation test unit
2. Specimen trimming device
3. Wire saw
4. Balance sensitive to 0.01 g
5. Stopwatch
6. Moisture can
7. Oven

Procedure
1. Prepare a soil specimen for the test by trimming an undisturbed natural
sample soil obtained in Shelby tubes (6.35-12.7 mm). (Note: For classroom
purposes, a specimen can be molded in the laboratory)
2. Collect some excess soil that has been trimmed in a moisture can for
determination of the moisture content and specific gravity.
3. Determine the mass, M1 of the consolidation ring, in grams, then place the
soil specimen in the consolidation ring.
4. Determine the mass, M2 of the consolidation ring and the soil specimen. The
difference (M2-M1) is the weight of the soil specimen.
5. Place the soil specimen in the ring over the lower porous stone and place the
upper porous stone on the specimen in the ring. (Note: Ensure that both the
lower and top porous stones are oven-dried)
6. Attach the top ring to the base of the odeometer.
7. Add water to the odeometer to submerge the soil and keep it saturated, then
place loading device.
8. Attach the vertical deflection dial gauge to measure the compression of the
soil. It should be fixed in such a way that the dial is the beginning of its
release run.
9. Apply load (pressure, P) to the specimen and take the vertical deflection
gauge readings at the following times, t, counted from the time of load
application: 0, 0.25, 1, 2.25, 4, 6.25, 9, 12.25, 20.25, 25, 36, 60, 120, 240,
1440 minutes.
10. The next day (24 hours), add more load to the specimen and take the vertical
deflection dial gauge readings at similar time intervals as stated in Step 9.
11. Loading is repeated (5 cycles total) and followed by unloading (2 cycles).
12. At the end of the test, remove the soil specimen and determine its moisture
content.

35
Sample Dimension

Loading= kN/kg/KPa
Diameter of specimen = cm
Initial height of specimen = cm
Specific gravity =
Dry mass of specimen = g

Table 1 (7 similar tables needed)

Loading Pressure, p : ___________________________________ kN/Kg/KPa

Time, t Vertical Dial Time, t Vertical Dial

(min) t reading (min) t reading
(mm) (mm)

36
Calculation and Discussion
1. Determine the following
Volume of solid in specimen, Vs = Dry mass of solid/((Specific
gravity)(unit mass of water))
Initial volume of specimen, V = ld2/4
Initial volume of void in specimen, Vv = V- Vs
Initial void ratio, e0 = Vv/Vs
Height of solid in specimen, Hs = Vs/Area of specimen

2. Plot the readings obtained (all 7 tables) either using Cassagrandes Logarithmic
Time Method (dial readings vs time) or Terzaghis Square Root Time Method (dial
readings vs square root of time).
3. Analysis the relationship between the void ratio, e and pressure, p (Note: Use
Table below) then plot the graph of (i) Void Ratio against Logarithm of Pressure
and (ii) Void Ratio against Pressure

Change in
Initial Deformation Deformation Dial
Thickness of
Pressure, p Dial Reading at Reading Representing Change in
Specimen, Void Ratio,
Beginning of First 100% Primary Void Ratio,
H (cm) e = eo - e
(1) Loading (mm) Consolidation (mm) e = H/Hs
(3-2)*0.1
(2) (3)

4. Analysis the relationship between Coefficient of consolidation, Cv and Pressure, p

(Note: Use Table below) then plot the graph of Coefficient of consolidation
against Logarithm of Pressure.

Coefficient of
Initial Height Thickness of Half- thickness Time for
Deformation Dial Consolidation
of Specimen Specimen at of Specimen at 50%
Reading at 50% Cv (cm/min)
Pressure, p at Beginning 50% 50% Consolidati
Consolidation
(1) of Test, Ho Consolidation Consolidation on (min)
(mm) (7) =
(mm) (mm) (mm), H
(3) 0.196(5)2/100(
(2) (4) = (2)-(3) (5)=(4)/2 (6)
6)

9. By using the graph plotted in Step 3 (i), determine the preconsolidation pressure,
p0 of the soil specimen (if any). Explain the step by step procedure used to
determine the value.
10. By using the graph plotted in Step 3 (ii), determine the values of aV and mV.
(Where av = e/p and mV = av/ 1+ e).
11. Estimate the coefficient of permeability, k (where k = Cv mVw)
12. Discuss why the values of av, mV and Cv decreases with p.
13. Discuss the sources of error that (might) affect your result.

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