CHAPTER THREE: SPECIFIC REPORT

ROAD COMPACTION
Compaction refers to the process of increasing the density of soil by mechanical means by
packing soil particles together with the reduction of air voids and to obtain a homogenous soil
mass having improved soil properties.
In the earlier days, embankments would be constructed and left for compaction by natural
processes. Due to loads imposed by heavier axle loads, very high degree of subgrade support
has become necessary which require fast and heavy compaction by suitable compacting
equipments. The densification of soil mass results in an improvement of soil properties and
its performance as a pavement supporting bed.
IMPORTANCE OF COMPACTION OF EARTHWORK
 Helps to increase the soil’s shear strength.
 Reduces compressibility thus minimizing uneven settlement during service.
 Increases density and reduces permeability, thus reducing susceptibility to change in
moisture content
 Results in little change in volume under traffic loads, thus minimizing deformation
and maintaining good rideability characteristics of the pavement.

FIELD DENSITY TEST (FDT)

Field Density Test is a Quality Control Test carried out at the site for knowing the
Compaction or Density achieved at site on the soil layer.
Compaction refers to the process of increasing the density of soil by mechanical means by
packing soil particles together with the reduction of air voids and to obtain a homogenous soil
mass having improved soil properties. Air present at the void spaces are expelled in the soil
mass as a result of compaction and so the density is increased.
Compaction increases the soil’s shear strength and therefore its stability and bearing capacity.
It’s also helpful in reducing compressibility and permeability, thus reducing susceptibility to
change in moisture content.
Compaction and its testing by Field Density Test are very important and repetitive steps
during earthwork phases at a project. At the site, the method of FDT performed was Sand
Replacement Method.
SAND REPLACEMENT METHOD