Soil Mechanics by: Waseem Al-Baghdadi

Ex-2: the grain-size distribution curve (A) was drown for a soil sample having LL=30%,
and PL=22%. Classify the soil according to (UCS) Unified Classification System.

Sol:

A/Given:

Grain-size distribution curve is given, so all the percentages can be gotten.

LL=30% PL=22%

B/Required

Soil classification according to Unified classification system

C/Calculations:

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Soil Mechanics by: Waseem Al-Baghdadi

In order to know whether it is coarse or fine soil, from the curve we

find that the percent of finer of D=0.075mm (Sieve No.200) equal to
approximately 8%.

8%<50%, then the soil is coarse soil.

100% of the soil is passing from sieve No.4, then the type is sandy soil

The percentage of fine soil is 5%<8%<12%, then dual symbols must

be used.

Neglecting the dual symbols started with G, It can be: (SW-SM, SW-
SC, SP-SM, or SP-SC)

Also, the percentage of fine soil is 12%>8%>5%, then we must

calculate both Cu and Cc

D10=0.085mm D30=0.12mm D60=0.135mm

Thus: Cc=(D30)2/(D10XD60)=(0.12)2/(0.085X0.135)=1.25

1<Cc=1.25<3, ok

Cu=D60/D10= 0.135/0.085=1.59<6 , not ok

So the soil is poorly sandy soil (i.e.) it is either SP-SM or

SP-SC…

Using plasticity chart noting that LL=30, and

PI=LL-PL=30-22=8,

the value of A-line =PA-line=0.73(LL-20)=0.73(30-20)=7.3<8

the soil lies above the A-Line

Then the soil is:

SP-SC

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Soil Mechanics by: Waseem Al-Baghdadi

Fig.(1) Triangular Classification System