LABORATORY EXERCISES NO.

SOIL SAMPLING, LABELLING AND STORAGE

I. OBJECTIVE: To be able to obtain samples of soil and make preparation for

labeling and storage.

II. THEORY
Soil sampling is an important part in making an investigation of the properties of
soil. Some properties of soil like its allowable compression, shear, etc., can be
determined using its index properties which in turn are based from samples of
soil.

III. DISCUSSION
Soil sampling is an important factor in the determination of the properties of soil.
The correct method of sampling will lead to more accurate results in the
determination of soil properties and structure. The storage of a sample, after it
has been obtained, is as important as sampling itself. If the storage is not done
adequately, it will lead to a change in some of the properties of the sample. The
labeling of a sample is necessary for easy identification of the sample and to
avoid confusion if different persons undertake the sampling and testing of the soil
sample. A better filing of soil samples will also mean better control of data
acquisition.

References: ASTM
AASHTO

IV. ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT

1. Soil Auger
2. Spade or Shovel
3. Pipe Wrench
4. Moisture Tight Sample Containers
5. Digital Weighing Scale

V. TESTING PROCEDURE
1. Clear the area of grass and vegetation where the sample is to be obtained.
2. With the use of the soil auger, dig a hole until the specified depth is reached
and obtain a disturbed sample.
3. Record the depth of each soil strata.
4. In obtaining undisturbed soil sample, a large hole should be dug but the
middle portion of the hole is not taken out.

5. Trim the middle portion of the soil until exact size is obtained. Make sure that
the sides are enclosed in a container to prevent crumbling.
6. Place a cover or paraffin wax or other means of covering on the sample.
Classify and label the sample.
7. Place the soil sample in a container with adequate space such as canvass
bags, cans and bins for large quantities and glass jars for small samples.

8. Place a label on sample and prepare the corresponding sample data for filing
purposes. (Data Sheet No. 1)
9. Cover disturbed soil sample with petrowax or paraffin after it has been placed
in a container.
10. Plot the soil profile based on the record of each group.
VI. DATA AND RESULTS

Project :___________________________________ File No. ________

Location :___________________________________ Date : _________
Sample No. :___________________________________ Borehole No. ____

Type of Sample : ________________________________________________

Description of Soil : __________________________________________________
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Original Size of Sample :_____________________________________________

Depth to Sample Bottom :_____________________________________________
Elevation of Ground Surface : ___________________________________________
Condition of Sample :_____________________________________________
Remarks :_______________________________________________________
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VII. COMPUTATION (optional)

VIII. DOCUMENTATION

IX. REMARKS AND OBSERVATION

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