Geotechnical Soil Classification

Question #1:
Using the below chart and information, what is the USCS and AASTHO classification? Liquid Limit = 45 Plastic Limit = 21

Gradation Chart
100% 80%
Percent Finer

60% 40% 20%

10

0.1

0.01

Particle Size (mm)

a. b. c. d.

Answer # 1 SC, A-3 SC, A(2-7) SM, A-3 SM, A(2-7)

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Geotechnical Soil Classification

Answer #1: b = SC, A(2-7)
Step 1: Find the USCS classification: - use the Gradation chart to find out the percentage passing through the #4, #200 sieve #4 sieve (coarse) = 81% passing #200 sieve (fines) = 25% passing - The soil is Coarse-Grain soil since more than 50% retained on #200 sieve. - The soil is Sands since more than 50% passes through the #4 sieve. - The soil is Sands with fines since it has more than 12% fines. - Use the Plasticity Chart to see if the soil is plot above or below the A-line. LL = 45; PI(Plasticity Index) = LL- PL = 45 - 21 = 24 plotted above the A line the soil classification = SC

Step 2: Find the AASHTO classification: - use the Gradation chart to find out the percentage passing through the #10, #40, #200 sieve. # 10 sieve = 63% passing # 40 sieve = 40% passing # 200 sieve = 25 % passing -The Gradation chart meets the graduation requirement of A-1b however, the LL and PI make the Group classification A-2-7 This is still good material for subgrade.

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