Soil Mechanics

Tutorial 4 Compaction

Question, Guide & Solution

Version : January 2022

 Soil Mechanics

Tutorial 4 Compaction

Question 1
Explain the followings :
(a) Meaning of compaction
(b) Objective of compaction
(c) Factors affecting compaction

Solution :

(a) Meaning of compaction

Compaction is a process that brings about an increase in soil density, accompanied
by a decrease in air volume. It is a process of packing soil particles closer together by
mechanical means, e.g rolling, tamping or vibrating.

(b) Objective of compaction

• To increase shear strength and therefore bearing capacity

• To increase stiffness and therefore reduce future settlement
• To decrease the voids ratio and so permeability
(c) Factors affecting compaction

• The nature and type of soil ( i.e. sand or clay, uniform or well-graded, plasticity
or non-plastic)
• The water content at the time of compaction
• Site conditions (i.e. weather, type of site, layer of thickness)
• Type of compaction plant being used (weight, vibration, number of passes)
• Maximum possible state of compaction attainable for the soil
• Maximum amount of compaction attainable under field conditions

Question 2
Show the relationship of “Compaction Curve” (Maximum Dry Density against Optimum Moisture
Content) with the differences of Compacting Effort (Compaction Energy) and also the types of soil used
for compaction.

Solution :
Question 3
Explain the relationship of “Air Voids Content” with soil compaction. What are the meanings of 0%, 5%
and 10% Air Voids Line.

Solution :

In compaction curve, the zero air void line which is a line of 100% degree of saturation
drawn on the right side of the compaction curve without touching it. this line helps to
check that the plotted compaction curve is correct.

When the voids present in between the soil particles are completely filled by the moisture
or the water, then it has no air entrapped in it or has no air voids. Therefore, the zero air
voids line is also known as saturation line.
Question 4
Differentiate the Proctor Test and the Modified Proctor Test in terms of conceptual and testing
procedure.

Solution :
Question 5
Differentiate the types of Field Density Testing Equipment and do include the pros and cons of the
testing equipment.

Solution :

The following points include the draw backs, benefits, pros and cons of different methods
of FDT and they will help you in judging the efficacy and usability of the method in your
case at site.

• The core cutter method is actually well suited for soft soils like clay soils or other
cohesive soils that are placed as fills. This method cannot be used for coarse grained
soil as the core cutter would not penetrate through them due to high resistance at
the tip of the instrument.
• Sand replacement method or sand cone method is known to be better as it can be
used in different types of soils and the results obtained are also much more
appropriate. The main difference between sand replacement method and core
cutter method is the procedure. In core cutter method you use a core and volume is
used as that of the core. While for sand replacement the volume is obtained
indirectly by using a calibrated sand. Sand replacement method the calculation is
lengthy as it involves many steps and you need more area of the reach to test. It also
tend to be less accurate than nuclear density gauge, which is very costly but is more
accurate.
• The rubber – balloon method although can get large samples, direct readings are
obtained but it is little awkward method that is slow and can be abandoned easily
in case of balloon breakage.
• Nuclear density test is the fastest of all the methods and is easiest to redo when
needed. You can get more tests for statistical reliability. in case of nuclear density
test you won’t be able to get any sample and it involves radiation which may be
harmful and damaging to the operator of the instrument if suitable precautions are
not taken in to account. Nuclear density test cannot be used if rocks are in the path
and it can lead to ambiguous results if miscalibrated.
Question 6
Differentiate the types of Compacting Machine and do include the pros and cons of the compacting
equipment.

Solution :
Question 7
During a construction of a highway, a sand replacement test was conducted in order to determine the
in-situ density of the subgrade. The following results were obtained :

Total mass of sand used in the test = 8500 g

Mass of sand retained in the cylinder at the = 2500 g
end of the test
Mass of soil removed from the hole = 5036 g

Initial calibration in the laboratory;

Density of sand = 1.6 Mg/m3
Mass of sand inside the sand replacement cone = 1760 g

Determine the bulk density of the subgrade soil.

Solution :

Soil removed from

the hole = 5036 g
Sand replacement tray

Total mass of Total mass of

sand (initial mass sand after
of sand in the testing in the
cylinder) = 8500 g cylinder = 2500 g

Mass of sand in
cone = 1760 g

?
Mass of sand
in the hole

Therefore,
Mass of sand in the hole = 8.500 – 2.500 – 1.760
= 4.240 kg
From, Density of sand = Mass of sand in hole
Volume of sand in the hole

1600 kg/m3 = 4.240 kg

Volume of sand in the hole

Volume of sand in the hole = 0.00265 m3

Then,
The bulk density of soil = Mass of soil in hole
Volume of the hole

= 5.036
0.00265

= 1900 kg/m3
Question 8
The following data were recorded during a sand replacement test :

Mass of soil removed from hole = 1.914 kg

Mass of soil after oven drying = 1.664 kg
Initial total mass of sand-pouring cylinder = 3.426 kg
Mass of sand pouring cylinder after running sand into the hole = 1.594 kg
Density of pouring sand = 1.62 Mg/m3
Mass of sand in cone in sand pouring cylinder = 0.248 kg

Determine the bulk and dry unit weights of the soil as per in-situ condition.

Solution :

Soil removed from Oven

the hole = 1.914 kg drying
Sand replacement tray

Dry mass =
1.664 kg

m = 15.02%

Total mass of sand Total mass of

(initial mass of sand sand after testing
in the cylinder) = in the cylinder =
3.426 kg 1.594 kg

Mass of sand in
cone = 0.248 kg
?
Mass of sand
in the hole

Therefore,
Mass of sand in the hole = 3.426 – 1.594 – 0.248
= 1.584 kg
From, Density of sand = Mass of sand in hole
Volume of sand in the hole

1620 kg/m3 = 1.584 kg

Volume of sand in the hole

Volume of sand in the hole = 0.000978 m3

Then,
The bulk density of soil = Mass of soil in hole
Volume of the hole

= 1.914
0.000978

= 1957 kg/m3

Also,
The dry density of soil = Bulk
1 + m

= 1957
1 + (15.02/100)

= 1701 kg/m3

Finally,
The dry unit weight of soil = Dry Density x 10

= 17.01 kN/m3
Question 9
In order to determine the in-situ density of some soil, a sand replacement test was used and the
following results were recorded :

Mass of soil extracted from the hole = 2.03 kg

Mass of soil after oven drying = 1.61 kg
Mass of sand pouring cylinder initially = 5.32 kg
Mass of sand pouring cylinder finally = 3.07 kg
Volume of cone in sand pouring cylinder = 0.00035 m3
Density of sand in cylinder = 1.59 Mg/m3

If the specific gravity of the soil particles is assumed to be 2.70, calculate the bulk density, the dry
density and the void ratio of the soil.

Solution :

Soil removed from Oven

the hole = 2.03 kg drying
Sand replacement tray

Dry mass =
1.61 kg

m = 26.08%

Total mass of sand Total mass of

(initial mass of sand sand after testing
in the cylinder) = in the cylinder =
5.32 kg 3.07 kg

Volume of sand in
cone = 0.00035 m3

?
Mass of sand
in the hole

From, Density of sand = Mass of sand in the cone

Volume of sand in the cone

Mass of sand in cone = Density of sand x Volume of sand in the cone

= 1590 kg/m3 x 0.00035 m3
= 0.56 kg
Therefore,
Mass of sand in the hole = 5.32 – 3.07 – 0.56
= 1.69 kg

From, Density of sand = Mass of sand in hole

Volume of sand in the hole

1590 kg/m3 = 1.69 kg

Volume of sand in the hole

Volume of sand in the hole = 0.00106 m3

Then,
The bulk density of soil = Mass of soil in hole
Volume of the hole

= 2.03
0.00106

= 1915 kg/m3

Also,
The dry density of soil = 1915
1 + m

= 1915
1 + (26.08/100)

= 1518 kg/m3

Then,
The void ratio of soil, e = Gs ρ w –1
Dry Density

= (2.70) (1000) – 1
1518

= 0.778
Finally,
From, Sr e = m Gs

Sr = m Gs
e

= (26.08/100) (2.70)
0.778

= 0.905 @ 90.5 %
Question 10
In order to determine the in-situ density of the compacted soil of a road embankment, a sand
replacement test and related compaction test results were recorded :

Calibration of the sand density

Density of sand = 1506 kg/m3

Calibration for the sand pouring cylinder (cone part)

Mass of sand pouring cylinder with sand - initial = 5466 g
Mass of sand pouring cylinder with sand - final = 3755 g

Field Testing - Sand replacement test results

Mass of sand pouring cylinder with sand - initial = 7387 g
Mass of sand pouring cylinder with sand - final = 3919 g
Mass of excavated soil (bulk soil condition) = 1827 g
Moisture content of excavated soil = 4.8 %

Laboratory Proctor results

Maximum dry density = 1631 kg/m3
Optimum moisture content = 4.2 %
g is equivalent to 9.80 m/s2

Determine the field dry density of the soil. Do the compaction process the achieved 95% relative density
requirement? If not, how can it be achieved?

Solution :

Calibration for the mass of soil in the cone

Total mass of sand Total mass of

(initial mass of sand sand after testing
in the cylinder) = in the cylinder =
5.466 kg 3.755 kg

Mass of sand in
cone = 1.711 kg
 Soil removed from Oven
the hole = 1.827 kg drying
Sand replacement tray

Dry mass
= ? kg

m = 4.8%

Total mass of sand Total mass of

(initial mass of sand sand after testing
in the cylinder) = in the cylinder =
7.387 kg 3.919 kg

Mass of sand in
cone = 1.711 kg

?
Mass of sand
in the hole

Therefore,
Mass of sand in the hole = 7.387 – 3.919 – 1.711
= 1.757 kg

From, Density of sand = Mass of sand in hole

Volume of sand in the hole

1506 kg/m3 = 1.757 kg

Volume of sand in the hole

Volume of sand in the hole = 0.001167 m3

Then,
The bulk density of soil = Mass of soil in hole
Volume of the hole

= 1.827
0.001167

= 1565 kg/m3

Also,
The dry density of soil = 1565
1 + 4.8

= 1565
1 + (4.8/100)

= 1493 kg/m3

% Relative Density = Achieved Field Dry Density x 100%

Laboratory MDD

= 1493 x 100%
1631

= 91.5%

Minimum requirement is 95% of the MDD value.

The specification found to be just 91.5%

The OMC required was 4.2% according to the laboratory test.

The m% at the site was 4.8% exceeding the OMC.

Too much water has been added to the soil during the field compaction process.

Re-compaction process needs to be conducted.

Question 11
A standard compaction test was performed on a soil sample and the results obtained were as follows:

Bulk Density (M g/ m 3 ) 1.855 2.030 2.090 2.076 2.008

W ater content (% ) 9.18 12.08 15.24 18.41 22.30

(a) Plot the water content versus dry density curve and obtain the optimum moisture content and
maximum dry density. Assume the Gs = 2.65.
(b) Draw the air void-line based on the 0%, 5% and 10%.
(c) Determine the air voids content at the maximum dry density and optimum moisture content.

Solution :

(a) Tabulated data :

Water content (%) 9.18 12.08 15.24 18.41 22.30

Bulk Density (Mg/m3) 1.855 2.030 2.090 2.076 2.008
Dry Density (Mg/m3) 1.699 1.811 1.814 1.753 1.642

Use this equation to find the dry density;

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m

Plot the “Dry Density against Moisture Content curve”;

Maximum Dry Density = 1.83 Mg/m3

Optimum Moisture Content = 13.8 %

(b) Use this equation to find the ρdry at the designated air voids percentage given;

ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

= (2.65) (1.0) (1 – 0)
1 + (10/100) (2.65)

= 2.09 (variable for Av = 0% and for moisture content 10%)

Create a table for Av of 0% , 5% and 10% and moisture content variable at

10%, 15% and 20%.
 Water Content (%) 10 15 20 25
Av = 0% 2.09 1.89 1.73 1.59
Av = 5% 1.98 1.79 1.64 1.51
Av = 10% 1.88 1.70 1.56 1.43

Use the calculated value to plot the air voids line.

(c) Used the value of MDD and OMC obtain from (a) to find the Av.

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )

Gs ρ w
= 0.054 @ 5.4%

(Note Gs = 2.65)
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
2.100 X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

2.000

1.900
0% Air Voids

1.830

1.800
5% Air Voids

1.700
10% Air Voids

1.600

1.500 13.8%

8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 m%
Question 12
A standard proctor compaction test is carried out on a sample of sandy clay yielded the following results :

Bulk Density (k g/ m 3 ) 2058 2125 2152 2159 2140

M oisture content (% ) 12.9 14.3 15.7 16.9 17.9

(a) Plot the curve of dry density against moisture content and hence find the maximum dry density
and the optimum moisture content.
(b) Plot the 0%, 5% and 10% air voids line.
(c) Determine air voids content at the maximum dry density and optimum moisture content when
Gs = 2.65.

Solution :

(a)
Tabulated data :

Water content (%) 12.9 14.3 15.7 16.9 17.9

Bulk Density (Mg/m3) 2.058 2.125 2.152 2.159 2.140
Dry Density (Mg/m3) 1.824 1.859 1.860 1.846 1.815

Use this equation to find the dry density;

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m

Plot the “Dry Density against Moisture Content curve”;

Maximum Dry Density = 1.86 Mg/m3

Optimum Moisture Content = 15.0 %

(b) Use this equation to find the ρdry at the designated air voids percentage given;

ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

= (2.65) (1.0) (1 – 0)
1 + (12/100) (2.65)

= 2.011 (variable for Av = 0% and for moisture content 12%)

 Create a table for Av of 0% , 5% and 10% and moisture content variable at
12%, 14%, 16% and 18%.

Water Content (%) 12 14 16 18

Av = 0% 2.011 1.933 1.861 1.794
Av = 5% 1.910 1.836 1.768 1.704
Av = 10% 1.809 1.739 1.675 1.615

Use the calculated value to plot the air voids line.

(c) Used the value of MDD and OMC obtain from (a) to find the Av.

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )

Gs ρ w
= 0.02 @ 2.0%

(Note Gs = 2.65)
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

1.950

0% Air Voids

5% Air Voids
1.900

1.862

1.850

1.800
10% Air Voids

1.750 15%

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 m%
Question 13
In a standard compaction test on a soil (where the GS = 2.70) the following results were obtained :

Bulk Density (k g/ m 3 ) 1890 2130 2200 2210 2160 2080

M oisture content (% ) 5 8 10 12 15 20

(a) Plot the water content versus dry density curve and obtain the optimum moisture content and
maximum dry density.
(b) Show the air void-line based on the 0% and 10%.
(c) Determine the air voids content at the maximum dry density and optimum moisture content.
(d) What are the values of void ratio, porosity and degree of saturation for the soil at its condition
of optimum water content?

Solution :

(a)
Tabulated data :

Water content (%) 5 8 10 12 15 20

Bulk Density (Mg/m3) 1.890 2.130 2.200 2.210 2.160 2.080
Dry Density (Mg/m3) 1.800 1.972 2.000 1.973 1.878 1.733

Use this equation to find the dry density;

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m

Plot the “Dry Density against Moisture Content curve”;

Maximum Dry Density = 1.995 Mg/m3

Optimum Moisture Content = 10.0 %

(b) Use this equation to find the ρdry at the designated air voids percentage given;

ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

= (2.70) (1.0) (1 – 0)
1 + (14/100) (2.70)

= 1.959 (variable for Av = 0% and for moisture content 14%)

 Create a table for Av of 0%; and moisture content variable at 14%, 16%,18%
and 20%.

Water Content (%) 14 16 18 20

Av = 0% 1.959 1.885 1.817 1.753
Av = 10% 1.763 1.696 1.635 1.577

Use the calculated value to plot the air voids line.

(Note Gs = 2.70)

(c) Used the value obtain from (a) to find the Av.

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )

Gs ρ w
= 0.02 @ 2.0%

(Note Gs = 2.70)

(d) The values of void ratio, porosity and degree of saturation for the soil at its
condition of optimum moisture content :

Void,

From,
ρdry = Gs ρw
1+e

1+e = Gs ρw
ρdry

e = Gs ρw – 1
ρdry

e = 0.353

Porosity,

From,
n = e
1+e

= 0.261
Degree of saturation,

From,
Sr e = m Gs
Sr = m Gs
e
= (10%) (2.70)
0.353
= 0.76 @ 76%
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
2.100 X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

2.000 1.995

1.900
0% Air Voids

1.800

1.700

10% Air Voids

1.600

1.500 10%

6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 m%
Question 14
In a standard compaction test on a soil the following results were obtained :
Volume of mould = 0.945 x 10-3 m3
Specific gravity of soil particle, Gs = 2.72

M ass of w et soil in m ould 1852 2019 2068 2062 2006

(g)
W ater content (% ) 8.10 10.50 12.70 14.90 17.50

(a) Determine the optimum moisture content and the maximum dry density of the soil.
(b) On the same axes, plot the dry density / moisture content curves for zero percent air voids.
(c) Obtain the air voids content of the same soil at the optimum moisture content.
(d) List down the five important factors which may control the effectiveness of compaction. Under
field compaction conditions, air voids content and optimum moisture content may vary up to
+ 1.5 and + 2.0 percent respectively. Therefore, calculate lower field limit of the maximum dry
density.

Solution :

(a) Tabulated data :

Water content (%) 8.10 10.50 12.70 14.90 17.50

Mass of wet soil in mould 1852 2019 2068 2062 2006
(g)
Bulk Density (Mg/m3) 1.959 2.136 2.188 2.182 2.123
Dry Density (Mg/m3) 1.812 1.933 1.941 1.899 1.807

Firstly, analyze the raw data.

1st set of data :

Bulk density = Mass of wet soil = 1.852 kg = 1959 kg/m3

Volume of mould 0.945 x 10-3 m3

Change the bulk density to 1.959 Mg/m3

Use the equation below to find the dry density;

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m
 Plot the “Dry Density against Moisture Content curve”;

Maximum Dry Density = 1.95 Mg/m3

Optimum Moisture Content = 12.2 %

(b) Use this equation to find the ρdry at the designated air voids percentage given;

ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

Create a table for 0% and 10%

Water Content (%) 12 14 16 18

Av = 0% 2.051 1.969 1.895 1.826

Use the calculated value to plot the air voids line.

(c) Used the value of MDD and OMC obtain from (a) to find the Av.

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )

Gs ρ w
= 0.046 @ 4.6%

(Note Gs = 2.72)

(d) From the results above;

Av = 4.6%
OMC or mopt = 12.2%

Under field conditions the mopt varies ± 2.0%

Under field conditions the Av varies ± 1.5% and

For mopt the variable becomes :

Variable #1 mopt + 2.0% = 12.2% + 2.0% = 14.2%

Variable #2 mopt + 2.0% = 12.2% + 2.0% = 10.2%

For Av the variable becomes :

Variable #3 Av + 1.5% = 4.6% + 1.5% = 6.1%

Variable #4 Av + 1.5% = 4.6% + 1.5% = 3.1%

Therefore,

ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

Replace the Av and the m according to the variable and calculate the dry density.

When Av = 3.1% and mopt = 10.2%

ρdry = Gs ρw (1 - Av)
1 + m Gs
= (2.72) (1.0) . [1 – (3.1/100)]
1 + (10.2/100) (2.72)
= 2.064

When Av = 3.1% and mopt = 14.2%

ρdry = Gs ρw (1 - Av)
1 + m Gs
= (2.72) (1.0) . [1 – (3.1/100)]
1 + (14.2/100) (2.72)
= 1.901

When Av = 6.1% and mopt = 10.2%

ρdry = Gs ρw (1 - Av)
1 + m Gs
= (2.72) (1.0) . [1 – (6.1/100)]
1 + (10.2/100) (2.72)
= 2.000

When Av = 6.1% and mopt = 14.2%

ρdry = Gs ρw (1 - Av)
1 + m Gs
= (2.72) (1.0) . [1 – (6.1/100)]
1 + (14.2/100) (2.72)
= 1.843

All data recommended to be represented in a table (below) :

Fixed Moisture Content 10.2% 14.2%

Respective Dry Av = 3.1%
Density (Mg/m3)
Av = 6.1%
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
2.100 X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

0% Air Voids
2.000

1.950

1.900

1.800

1.700

1.600

1.500 12.2%

8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 m%
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
2.100 X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

2.000

1.950

1.900

1.800

1.700

1.600

1.500 12.2%

8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 m%
Question 15
The results of a standard Proctor compaction test were obtained and the data for the determination of
water content are as follows :

M ass of com pacted soil + m ould (g) 2895 3070 3130 3116 3048
M ass of container (g) 9.40 9.30 9.30 9.50 9.50
M ass of w et soil (g) 20.10 19.41 21.17 19.34 20.14
M ass of dry soil (g) 19.20 18.32 19.60 17.81 18.20

Cylindrical mould used in this test has a volume of 1000 ml and a mass of 1040 g.
(a) Determine the optimum moisture content and maximum dry density of the compacted soil.
(b) On the same axes, plot the dry density / moisture content curves for zero percent air voids.
(c) Obtain the air voids content of the soil at the optimum moisture content when Gs = 2.65.

Solution :

(a) Tabulated data :

Mass of compacted soil + mould (g) 2895 3070 3130 3116 3048
Mass of mould (g) 1040 1040 1040 1040 1040
Mass of compacted soil (g) 1855 2030 2090 2076 2008
Bulk density (Mg/m3) 1.855 2.030 2.090 2.076 2.008
Mass of container (g) 9.40 9.30 9.30 9.50 9.50
Mass of wet soil + container (g) 20.10 19.41 21.17 19.34 20.14
Mass of dry soil + container (g) 19.20 18.32 19.60 17.81 18.20

Moisture content (%) 9.1 12.1 15.2 18.4 22.2

Dry density (Mg/m3) 1.700 1.812 1.814 1.753 1.643

(Note : Cylindrical mould used in this test has a volume of 1000ml and a mass of 1040g)

Firstly, analyze the raw data.

1st set of data :

Bulk density = Mass of wet soil = 1.855 kg = 1855 kg/m3

Volume of mould 0.001 m3

Change the bulk density to 1.855 Mg/m3

 Use this equation to find the dry density;

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m

Then, calculate the moisture content.

Plot the “Dry Density against Moisture Content curve”;

Maximum Dry Density = 1.824 Mg/m3

Optimum Moisture Content = 13.5 %

(b) Use this equation to find the ρdry at the designated air voids percentage given;

ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

Create a table for 0% and 10%

Water Content (%) 16 18 20 22

Av = 0% 1.86 1.79 1.73 1.67

Use the calculated value to plot the air voids line.

(c) Used the value of MDD and OMC obtain from (a) to find the Av.

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )

Gs ρ w
= 0.068 @ 6.8%

(Note Gs = 2.65)
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.01 Mg/m3
1.824

1.800

0% Air Voids
1.750

1.700

1.650

15%
1.600

8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 m%
Question 16
The results of a standard Proctor compaction test were obtained and the data for the determination of
water content are as follows :

M ass of com pacted soil + m ould (g) 6359 6481 6542 6540 6425
M ass of container (g) 9.40 9.30 9.30 9.50 15.80
M ass of w et soil + container (g) 59.70 65.70 74.00 44.10 78.50
M ass of dry soil + container (g) 58.10 62.70 69.60 40.70 70.10

Cylindrical mould used in this test has a volume of 945 cm3 and a mass of 4420 g. The specific gravity
of the soil particle is 2.65.
(a) Determine the values of maximum dry density and optimum moisture content of the compacted
soil.
(b) On the same axes, plot the dry density / moisture content curves for 0% and 5% air voids line.
(c) Obtain the air voids content of the soil at the maximum dry density.

Solution :

(a) Tabulated data :

Mass of compacted soil + mould (g) 6359 6481 6542 6540 6425
Mass of mould (g) 4420 4420 4420 4420 4420
Mass of compacted soil (g) 1939 2061 2122 2120 2005
Bulk density (Mg/m3) 2.052 2.181 2.246 2.243 2.122
Mass of container (g) 9.40 9.30 9.30 9.50 15.80
Mass of wet soil + container (g) 59.70 65.70 74.00 44.10 78.50
Mass of dry soil + container (g) 58.10 62.70 69.60 40.70 70.10
Moisture content (%) 3.29 5.62 7.30 10.9 13.86
Dry density (Mg/m3) 1.987 2.065 2.093 2.023 1.863

(Note : Cylindrical mould used in this test has a volume of 945ml and a mass of 4420g)
 Firstly, analyze the raw data.

1st set of data :

Bulk density = Mass of wet soil = 1.939 kg = 2052 kg/m3

Volume of mould 0.000945 m3

Change the bulk density to 2.052 Mg/m3

Use this equation to find the dry density;

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m

Then, calculate the moisture content.

Plot the “Dry Density against Moisture Content curve”;

Maximum Dry Density = 2.1 Mg/m3

Optimum Moisture Content = 7.8 %

(b) Use this equation to find the ρdry at the designated air voids percentage given;

ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

Create a table for 0% and 5% air voids;

Water Content (%) 10 12 14 16

Av = 0% 2.1 2.01 1.93 1.86
Av = 5% 1.99 1.91 1.83 1.77

Use the calculated value to plot the air voids line.

(c) Used the value of MDD and OMC obtain from (a) to find the Av.

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )

Gs ρ w
= 0.030 @ 3.0%

(Note Gs = 2.65)
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

2.100
2.100

2.000 0% Air Voids

1.900
5% Air Voids

1.800

1.700

1.600 7.8%

4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 m%
Question 17
The following results were obtained from a standard Proctor compaction test on a cylindrical mould of
volume 0.001 m3 .

W eight of sam ple of w et 6.65 6.12 5.02 5.18 5.20 4.77 4.74
soil (g)
W eight of sam ple of dry 6.03 5.51 4.49 4.60 4.59 4.18 4.12
soil (g)
W eight of soil in m ould 2821 2864 2904 2906 2895 2874 2834
after com paction (g)

Weight of mould = 1034 g

(a) Plot the water content versus dry density curve and obtain the optimum moisture content and
maximum dry density of the compacted soil.
(b) On the same axes, draw the 0% and 10% air voids-line.
(c) Obtain the air voids content of the soil at the optimum moisture content.
(d) Assuming that a relative compaction on site of 96% at optimum moisture content, estimate the
total pressure at the base of a 20 m high embankment built of this soil. What will be the void
ratio and degree of saturation of the soil in this embankment if the grain specific gravity is 2.67.

Solution :

(a) The results obtained from a standard Proctor compaction test on a cylindrical
mould of volume 0.001 m3 ;

Weight of sample of wet 6.65 6.12 5.02 5.18 5.20 4.77 4.74
soil (g)
Weight of sample of dry 6.03 5.51 4.49 4.60 4.59 4.18 4.12
soil (g)
Weight of water (g) 0.62 0.61 0.53 0.58 0.61 0.56 0.62

Moisture content (%) 10.26 11.07 11.52 12.61 13.29 13.40 15.05

Weight of soil + mould 2821 2864 2904 2906 2895 2874 2834
after compaction (g)
Weight of mould (g) 1034 1034 1034 1034 1034 1034 1034

Weight of soil only (g) 1787 1830 1870 1812 1861 1840 1800
 Bulk density (Mg/m3) 1.787 1.830 1.870 1.812 1.861 1.840 1.800

Dry density (Mg/m3) 1.620 1.647 1.673 1.663 1.643 1.612 1.565

Firstly, analyze the raw data.

1st set of data :

Bulk density = Mass of wet soil = 1.787 kg = 1.787 kg/m3

Volume of mould 0.001 m3

Change the bulk density to 1.787 Mg/m3

Use this equation to find the dry density;

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m

Then, calculate the moisture content.

Plot the “Dry Density against Moisture Content curve”;

Maximum Dry Density = 1.676 Mg/m3

Optimum Moisture Content = 11.8 %

(b) Use this equation to find the ρdry at the designated air voids percentage given;

ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

Create a table for 0% and 10% air voids;

Water Content (%) 13 14 15 16

Av = 0% 1.982 1.943 1.906 1.870
Av = 10% 1.784 1.749 1.715 1.683

Use the calculated value to plot the air voids line.

(c) Used the value of MDD and OMC obtain from (a) to find the Av.

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )

Gs ρ w
= 0.18 @ 18%

(Note Gs = 2.67)

(d) Assuming that a relative compaction on site of 96% at optimum moisture content,
estimate the total pressure at the base of a 20 m high embankment built of this
soil.

Relative Compaction = 96%

Relative Compaction = Achieved Field Dry Density x 100%

Lab MDD

96% = Achieved Field Dry Density x 100%

1.676

∴ Achieved Field Dry Density = 1.609 Mg/m3

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m

∴ ρbulk = (1.609) [1 + (11.8/100)]

= 1.799 Mg/m3

Pressure at the base = ρgh

= (1.799) (10) (20)

= 359.8 kN
The void ratio and degree of saturation of the soil in this embankment if the grain
specific gravity is 2.67.

Void,

From,
ρdry = Gs ρw
1+e

1+e = Gs ρw
ρdry

e = Gs ρw – 1
ρdry

= (2.67) (1.0) – 1
1.609
e = 0.659

Degree of saturation,

From,
Sr e = m Gs

Sr = m Gs
E

= (11.8/100) (2.67)
0.659

= 0.479 @ 47.9%
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.20 Mg/m3

1.900 0% Air Voids

1.800

10% Air Voids

1.700

1.676

1.600

1.500 12%

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 m%
Question 18
The results of a soil Compaction test on a soil sample are given below. The proctor mould used in the
experiment has a volume of 1000 cm3. The specific gravity was found to be 2.70.
(a) Plot the compaction curve of the Dry Density against Moisture Content.
(b) Determine the Maximum Dry Density (MDD) and the Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) for the
soil.
(c) In addition, plot the 0%, 5% and 10% Air Voids line.
(d) Determine the Air Voids Content at Maximum Dry Density.
(e) Under field compaction conditions, air voids content and optimum moisture content may vary up
to + 1.5 and + 2.0 percent respectively. Therefore, calculate lower field limit of the maximum
dry density.

Laboratory Compaction Test

No. of test 1 2 3 4 5

Density Determination

Mass of mould + base (g) 2050 2050 2050 2050 2050

Mass of compacted soil + mould + base

3760 4052 4189 4171 4092
(g)

Bulk Density (kg/m3)

Moisture Content Determination

Mass of can (g) 20.11 21.24 19.81 20.30 20.99

Mass of can + wet soil (g) 240.85 227.03 263.45 267.01 240.29

Mass of can + dry soil (g) 231.62 212.65 241.14 238.81 209.93

M ax im um Dry Density (k g/ m 3 )
Optim um M oisture Content (% )
Solution :

(a) The results obtained from a standard Proctor compaction test on a cylindrical
mould of volume 0.001 m3 ;

Mass of compacted soil + mould (g) 3760 4052 4189 4171 4092

Mass of mould + base (g) 2050 2050 2050 2050 2050

Mass of compacted soil (g) 1710 2002 2139 2121 2042

Bulk density (Mg/m3) 1.710 2.002 2.139 2.121 2.042

Dry density (Mg/m3) 1.639 1.862 1.944 1.878 1.760

Mass of container (g) 20.11 21.24 19.81 20.30 20.99

Mass of wet soil + container (g) 240.85 227.03 263.45 267.01 240.29

Mass of dry soil + container (g) 231.62 212.65 241.14 238.81 209.93

Moisture content (%) 4.3 7.5 10.0 12.9 16.0

Firstly, analyze the raw data.

1st set of data :

Calculate the moisture content.

Calculate the Bulk Density and Dry Density.

Bulk density = Mass of wet soil = 1.710 kg = 1.710 kg/m3

Volume of mould 0.001 m3

Change the bulk density to 1.710 Mg/m3

Use this equation to find the dry density;

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m
(b) Plot the “Dry Density against Moisture Content curve”;

Maximum Dry Density = 1.676 Mg/m3

Optimum Moisture Content = 11.8 %

(c) Use this equation to find the ρdry at the designated air voids percentage given;

ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

Create a table for 0% and 10% air voids;

Water Content (%) 10 12 14 16 18

Av = 0% 1.956 1.885 1.817
Av = 5% 1.937 1.861 1.791
Av = 10% 1.913 1.835 1.763

Use the calculated value to plot the air voids line.

(d) Used the value of MDD and OMC obtain from (a) to find the Av.

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )]

Gs ρ w

= 1 - (1.95) [ 1 + (10.4/100) (2.70)]

(2.70) (1.0)

= 0.068 @ 6.8%

(e) Under field conditions the mopt varies ± 2.0 and Av varies ± 1.5

Therefore,

When mopt varies ± 2.0%,

There will be 2 values of that will be used which are,

Variable #1 = mopt + 2% = 10.8 + 2.0 = 12.8%

Variable #2 = mopt - 2% = 10.8 - 2.0 = 8.8%

In addition to complete the 4 point coordinates, the Av also varies ± 1.5%;

When Av varies ± 1.5%,

There will be 2 values of that will be used which are,

Variable #3 = Av + 1.5% = 6.8 + 1.5 = 8.3%

Variable #4 = Av - 1.5% = 6.8 - 1.5 = 5.3%

Create a table and calculate the points.

m% = 12.8 m% = 8.8
Calculate, ρdry When Av = 8.3% ? ?

Calculate, ρdry When Av = 5.3% ? ?

When Av = 8.3% and mopt = 12.8%

ρdry = Gs ρw (1 - Av)
1 + m Gs

= (2.70) (1.0) [1 – (8.3/100)]

1 + (12.8/100) (2.70)

= 1.839

When Av = 8.3% and mopt = 8.8%

ρdry = Gs ρw (1 - Av)
1 + m Gs

= (2. 70) (1.0) [1 – (8.3/100)]

1 + (8.8/100) (2.70)

= 2.000
When Av = 5.3% and mopt = 12.8%

ρdry = Gs ρw (1 - Av)
1 + m Gs

= (2.70) (1.0) [1 – (5.3/100)]

1 + (12.8/100) (2.70)

= 1.900

When Av = 5.3% and mopt = 8.8%

ρdry = Gs ρw (1 - Av)
1 + m Gs

= (2.70) (1.0) [1 – (5.3/100)]

1 + (8.8/100) (2.70)

= 2.066

m% = 12.8 m% = 8.8
Calculate, ρdry When Av = 8.3% 1.839 2.000

Calculate, ρdry When Av = 5.3% 1.900 2.066

We obtained 4 variable points from the Av and mopt for the calculation of the dry
density.

Plot the points in the graph!

 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

2.100

2.000

1.950

1.900

1.800

1.700

1.600 10.4%

4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 m%
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

2.100

0% Air Voids
2.000 5% Air Voids
10% Air Voids

1.900

1.800

1.700

1.600

4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 m%
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

2.100

2.000
Field Limits of the
Dry Density
1.950

1.900

1.800

1.700

1.600 10.4%

4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 m%
Question 19
The results of a soil Compaction test on a soil sample are given below. The proctor mould used in the
experiment has a volume of 998 cm3. The specific gravity was found to be 2.70.
(a) Plot the compaction curve of the Dry Density against Moisture Content.
(b) Determine the Maximum Dry Density (MDD) and the Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) for the
soil.
(c) In addition, plot the 0%, 5% and 10% Air Voids line.
(d) Determine the Air Voids Content at Maximum Dry Density.
(e) Under field compaction conditions, air voids content and optimum moisture content may vary up
to + 1.5 and + 2.0 percent respectively. Therefore, calculate lower field limit of the maximum
dry density.

Laboratory Compaction Test

No. of test 1 2 3 4 5

Density Determination

Mass of mould + base (g) 1040 1040 1040 1040 1040

Mass of compacted soil + mould + base

2895 3070 3130 3116 3048
(g)

Bulk Density (kg/m3)

Moisture Content Determination

Mass of can (g) 9.40 9.30 9.30 9.50 9.50

Mass of can + wet soil (g) 20.10 19.41 21.17 19.34 20.14

Mass of can + dry soil (g) 19.20 18.32 19.60 17.81 18.20

M ax im um Dry Density (k g/ m 3 )
Optim um M oisture Content (% )
Solution :

(a) The results obtained from a standard Proctor compaction test on a cylindrical
mould of volume 0.00098 m3 ;

Mass of compacted soil + mould (g) 2895 3070 3130 3116 3048

Mass of mould + base (g) 1040 1040 1040 1040 1040

Mass of compacted soil (g) 1855 2030 2090 2076 2008

Bulk density (Mg/m3) 1.859 2.034 2.094 2.080 2.012

Dry density (Mg/m3) 1.704 1.814 1.818 1.757 1.646

Mass of container (g) 9.40 9.30 9.30 9.50 9.50

Mass of wet soil + container (g) 20.10 19.41 21.17 19.34 20.14

Mass of dry soil + container (g) 19.20 18.32 19.60 17.81 18.20

Moisture content (%) 9.1 12.1 15.2 18.4 22.2

Firstly, analyze the raw data.

1st set of data :

Calculate the moisture content.

Calculate the Bulk Density and Dry Density.

Bulk density = Mass of wet soil = 1.855 kg = 1859 kg/m3

Volume of mould 0.000998 m3

Change the bulk density to 1.859 Mg/m3

Use this equation to find the dry density;

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m
(b) Plot the “Dry Density against Moisture Content curve”;

Maximum Dry Density = 1.83 Mg/m3

Optimum Moisture Content = 14 %

(c) Use this equation to find the ρdry at the designated air voids percentage given;

ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

Create a table for 0%, 5% and 10% air voids;

Water Content (%) 10 12 14 16 18

Av = 0% 1.956 1.885 1.817
Av = 5% 1.937 1.861 1.791
Av = 10% 1.913 1.835 1.763

Use the calculated value to plot the air voids line.

(d) Used the value of MDD and OMC obtain from (a) to find the Av.

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )]

Gs ρ w

= 1 - (1.83) [ 1 + (14/100) (2.70)]

(2.70) (1.0)

= 0.066 @ 6.6%

(e) Under field conditions the mopt varies ± 2.0 and Av varies ± 1.5

Therefore,

When mopt varies ± 2.0%,

There will be 2 values of that will be used which are,

Variable #1 = mopt + 2% = 14 + 2.0 = 16%

Variable #2 = mopt - 2% = 14 - 2.0 = 12%

In addition to complete the 4 point coordinates, the Av also varies ± 1.5%;

When Av varies ± 1.5%,

There will be 2 values of that will be used which are,

Variable #3 = Av + 1.5% = 6.6 + 1.5 = 8.1%

Variable #4 = Av - 1.5% = 6.6 - 1.5 = 5.1%

Create a table and calculate the points.

m% = 16 m% = 12
Calculate, ρdry When Av = 8.1% ? ?

Calculate, ρdry When Av = 5.1% ? ?

When Av = 8.1% and mopt = 16%

ρdry = Gs ρw (1 - Av)
1 + m Gs

= (2.70) (1.0) [1 – (8.1/100)]

1 + (16/100) (2.70)

= 1.732

When Av = 8.1% and mopt = 12%

ρdry = Gs ρw (1 - Av)
1 + m Gs

= (2.70) (1.0) [1 – (8.1/100)]

1 + (12/100) (2.70)

= 1.874
When Av = 5.1% and mopt = 16%

ρdry = Gs ρw (1 - Av)
1 + m Gs

= (2.70) (1.0) [1 – (5.1/100)]

1 + (16/100) (2.70)

= 1.789

When Av = 5.1% and mopt = 12%

ρdry = Gs ρw (1 - Av)
1 + m Gs

= (2.70) (1.0) [1 – (5.1/100)]

1 + (12/100) (2.70)

= 1.936

m% = 16 m% = 12
Calculate, ρdry When Av = 8.1% 1.732 1.874

Calculate, ρdry When Av = 5.1% 1.789 1.936

We obtained 4 variable points from the Av and mopt for the calculation of the dry
density.

Plot the points in the graph!

 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

2.100

2.000

1.900

1.830

1.800

1.700

1.600 14%

10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 m%
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

2.100

2.000

1.900

0% Air Voids

5% Air Voids
1.800
10% Air Voids

1.700

1.600

10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 m%
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3 Scale
X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

2.100

2.000

1.900
Field Limits of the
Dry Density

1.800

1.700

1.600

10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 m%
ECG303 Soil Mechanics March 2014

Solution :

Question 4(a)

Types of compaction plant

• Smooth wheeled roller
• Sheep foot roller
• Grid roller
• Vibrating roller
• Pneumatic-tyred roller
• Vibrating plate
• Power rammer
Question 4(b)

Plotting and Cc determination

From the graph;

For Compressibility Index
Slope portion from the graphs are used to obtained the selected points
Cc = eo – e1
log σ1 – log σo
= 0.214 m2/kN

From the graph;

For Pre consolidation pressure = 100 kN/m2

Also the consolidation settlement for 5 m thick clay, stress changes 250 to 450 kN/m2
sC = CC log(σ1’/σO’) HO
1 + eO
= 0.214 log (450/250) (5) 103
2.125
= 128 mm
Question 4(c)

Engineering works that could have solved the problem of insufficient consolidation for
the proposed land :
• Proper compaction using vibrating roller
• Enhanced number of lifts during compaction
• Installation of sand drains and prefab vertical drains to expedite the
consolidation process,
ECG303 Soil Mechanics September 2014

Solution :

Question 4 (a)

Compaction
• method of mechanically increasing the density of soil.
• In construction, this is a significant part of the building process; if performed
improperly, settlement of the soil could occur and result in unnecessary
maintenance costs or structure failure.

Objectives of compaction :
• Increase shear strength and bearing capacity
• Increase stiffness reduce settlement
• Decrease the void ratio and permeability

Question 4 (b)

Moisture 5 8 10 13 16 19
content (%)
Dry density 1.781 1.889 1.936 1.947 1.862 1.756
(Mg/m3)
From the graph :
• MDD = 1.97 Mg/m3
• OMC = 11.6 %

Data for 0% and 10% Air Voids Line :

m (%) Max dry Av 0% Av 10%

Density
5 1.781 2.38 2.14
8 1.889 2.22 2.00
10 1.936 2.13 1.91
13 1.947 2.00 1.80
16 1.862 1.89 1.70
19 1.756 1.78 1.61

Gs = 2.70
Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )
Gs ρ w
= 0.043 @ 4.3 %

Question 4 (c)

Under field conditions the mopt varies ± 1.5%;

There will be 2 values of that will be used which are,
Variable #1 = mopt + 1.5 % = 11.6 + 1.5 = 13.1 %
Variable #2 = mopt - 1.5 % = 11.6 - 1.5 = 10.1 %
In addition, the Av also varies ± 2%;
There will be 2 values of that will be used which are,
Variable #3 = Av + 2 % = 4.3 + 2 = 6.3 %
Variable #4 = Av - 2 % = 4.3 - 2 = 1.3 %

Using
ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

Fixed Moisture Content 10.1 % 13.1 %

Respective Dry Av = 2.093 1.968
Density (Mg/m3) 1.3 %
Av = 1.987 1.868
6.3 %
ECG303 Soil Mechanics March 2015

Solution :

Question 4 (a)

Factors controlling the effectiveness of compaction :

• Nature and type of soil
• Water content at the time of placing
• Maximum layer of thickness
• Maximum possible state of compaction attainable for the soil
• Maximum amount of compaction attainable for the soil at field condition
• Type of compaction plant used
Question 4 (b)

Moisture 5 8 10 13 16 19
content (%)
Dry density 1.78 1.89 1.94 1.95 1.86 1.76
(Mg/m3)

From the graph :

• MDD = 1.97 Mg/m3
• OMC = 11.6 %

Data for 0%, 5%, 10% Air Voids Line :

m (%) Max dry Av 0% Av 5% Av 10%

Density
5 1.78 2.38 2.26 2.14
8 1.89 2.22 2.11 2.00
10 1.94 2.13 2.02 1.91
13 1.95 2.00 1.90 1.80
16 1.86 1.89 1.79 1.70
19 1.76 1.78 1.70 1.61
Gs = 2.70

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )

Gs ρ w
= 0.041 @ 4.1 %

Question 4 (c)

Types of compaction plant

• Smooth wheeled roller
• Sheep foot roller
• Grid roller
• Vibrating roller
• Pneumatic-tyred roller
• Vibrating plate
• Power rammer
ECG303 Soil Mechanics September 2015

Solution :

Question 4 (a)

Objectives of compaction :
• Increase shear strength and bearing capacity
• Increase stiffness reduce settlement
• Decrease the void ratio and permeability

Question 4 (b)

Bulk density 2.05 2.19 2.26 2.24 2.16

(Mg/m3)
Moisture 4.56 6.21 8.19 10.9 13.59
content (%)
Dry density 1.96 2.06 2.09 2.02 1.91
(Mg/m3)

From the graph :

• MDD = 2.095 Mg/m3
• OMC = 7.6 %
 Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )
Gs ρ w
= 0.066 @ 6.6 %

Question 4 (c)

Field Density Test :

• Sand replacement method

The sand replacement test method is used to determine in situ dry density of soil.
The procedures, materials, equipment, and specifications of this test is based on
the BS Standard. This test is of significant importance and it has been widely
used in various construction project sites.

The field density of natural soil is required for the estimation of soil bearing
capacity for the purpose of evaluation of pressures on underlying strata for
computation of settlement, and stability analysis of natural slope.

The sand replacement test method is also used to determine the in-place density
of compacted soil in order to compare it with the designated compaction degree,
hence it specifies how much the compaction of the soil is close to the designated
compaction degree.
• Nuclear density gauge
Soil density is an important factor to most construction projects and provides
critical support for buildings, roads, pavements and other structures. Soil is
frequently disturbed during the development process resulting in the introduction
of air or water into the ground. Any water particles or air voids must be removed
from the soil to ensure proper support.

Compacting the soil, with equipment appropriate for each project, will eliminate
voids and remove paths through which water can flow. The quality of the
compaction efforts must be tested once complete to ensure the stability of the
structure being built.

A nuclear densometer or soil density gauge is an instrument used in the field for
determining the density of compacted materials. The nuclear densometer
measures the interaction of gamma radiation with the ground to calculate the
density. Most densometers use either direct transmission or measure with the
backscatter method to determine density.
ECG303 Soil Mechanics March 2016
Solution :

Question 4 (a)

Objectives of compaction :
• Increase shear strength and bearing capacity
• Increase stiffness reduce settlement
• Decrease the void ratio and permeability

Question 4 (b)

Bulk density 1.615 1.894 2.093 1.955 1.830

(Mg/m3)
Moisture 7.5 10.0 12.8 15.6 17.2
content (%)
Dry density 1.50 1.72 1.86 1.69 1.56
(Mg/m3)

From the graph :

• MDD = 1.860 Mg/m3
• OMC = 12.8 %

ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

Create a table for 0% and 10%

Water Content (%) 10 12 14 16

Av = 0% 2.13 2.04 1.96 1.88
Av = 10% 1.92 1.84 1.76 1.69

Use the calculated value to plot the air voids line.

Used the value of MDD and OMC obtain from (a) to find the Av.

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )

Gs ρ w
= 0.07 @ 7%
ECG303 Soil Mechanics October 2016

Solution :

Question 4 (a)
Question 4 (b)

Thickness of sample at the end of the test = 17.92 mm

Moisture content at the end of the test = 31.8 %
Specific gravity of the soil = 2.66

Calculating void ratio at the end of the test;

Where the sample is fully saturated Sr = 1.0

∴ e1 = m 1 G s
= 0.846

(Stage 0 to 800 kPa )

Change in void ratio during the swelling stage;
Thickness at 0 kPa = 17.92 mm and e = 0.846
Thickness at 800 kPa = 17.24 mm
∆e = ∆h (1 + e1)
hfin
= (17.92 – 17.24) (1 + 0.846)
17.92
= 0.070
 A

From the plot & data :

Point A, log σ’o = log 100 kPa , eo = 0.917

Point B, log σ’1 = log 400 kPa , e1 = 0.821

 Cc = eo – e1
log σ’1 - log σ’o

= (0.917 – 0.821)
log 400 – log 100

= 0.16

sC = CC log(σ1’/σO’) HO
1 + eO

= 0.16 log(360/220) (4) 103

1.917

= 54 mm

Question 4 (c)

Compaction Equipment suitable for cohesive soil area

Tamping Foot Compactor

• The static pad foot rollers also called tamping rollers have static weights in the
range of 15 to 40 tonnes and their static linear drum loads are between 30 and 80
kg/cm.
• These rollers are more preferable than sheepsfoot roller due to their high
production capacity, and they are replacing sheepsfoot rollers.
• The degree of compaction achieved is more than sheepsfoot rollers.
• The density of soil achieved after compaction with this roller is more uniform.
• These rollers operate at high speeds, and are capable to breaking large lumps.
• These rollers also consists of leveling blades to spread the material.
• Pad foot or tamping rollers are best suitable for compacting cohesive soils.
ECG303 Soil Mechanics March 2017

Solution :

Question 4 (a)

(i) Moisture movement

(ii) Effect of vegetation
(iii) Effect of GWT lowering
(iv) Effect of mining subsidence
(v) Loss of lateral support
(vi) Effects of temperature changes

Refer to Whitlow Chapter 10 (Pages 398-402)

Question 4 (b)

Tabulated data :

Water content (%) 20.0 23.1 25.6 28.5 31.3 34.0

Bulk Density (Mg/m3) 1.59 1.69 1.78 1.84 1.81 1.78
Dry Density (Mg/m3) 1.325 1.373 1.417 1.432 1.379 1.328

Use this equation to find the dry density;

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m

Plot the “Dry Density against Moisture Content curve”;

Maximum Dry Density = 1.434 Mg/m3

Optimum Moisture Content = 28.4 %

Use this equation to tabulate the values for air voids line.
ρdry = Gs ρw ( 1 - Av )
1 + m Gs

Create a table for 0% and 10%

Water Content (%) 28 30 32

Av = 0% 1.537 1.492 1.448
Av = 10% 1.383 1.343 1.303

Use the calculated value to plot the air voids line.

Air voids content at MDD and OMC values.

From,

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )

Gs ρ w
= 0.07 @ 7.0%
 Graph : Dry Density against Moisture Content Relationship

ρdry
Mg/m3

Scale
X Axis : 1 cm to 1%
1.500 Y Axis : 1 cm to 0.25 Mg/m3

0% Air Voids

1.450

1.434

1.400

1.350
10% Air Voids

1.300 28.4%

20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 m%
Question 4 (c)

Soil condition dominated by clay ie 70%.

Selection of compactor for fine grained soil.

Why select Sheepfoot Roller :

Sheepsfoot rollers are used for compacting fine grained soils such as heavy clays and silty
clays.

Sheepsfoot rollers are used for compaction of soils in dams, embankments, subgrade
layers in pavements and rail road construction projects.

Sheepsfoot rollers are can be either of static and vibratory types.

Vibratory types rollers are used for compaction of all fine grained soils and also soil with
sand-gravel mixes.

Generally this roller is used for compaction of subgrade layers in road and rail projects.
ECG303 Soil Mechanics January 2018
Solution :

Question 4 (a)

The standard oedometer test, also referred to as consolidation test or one-dimensional

compression test, is a classical laboratory test that allows characterizing the soil stress-
strain behavior during one-dimensional compression or swelling.

Carried out on saturated soil specimens, this test can be used to determine consolidation
and swelling parameters.

The standard oedometer test is one of the most commonly used tests in geotechnical
laboratory testing program.

The consolidation test results include the presentation of stress-void ratio in a semi-
logarithmic scale.

From the changes in thickness at the end of each loading step, one can determine
the Swelling Index (Cs), Compression Index (Cc) and, Coefficient of Volume
Compressibility (mv).

The coefficient of consolidation (cv) and the rate of consolidation can be also measured
using the results of the thickness changes of the sample against time during a load step.
Question 4 (b)

Mass of sand runs out from cylinder

= (5.720 – 3.175) = 2.545 kg

Using, Density = Mass/Volume

Mass of sand in cone cylinder
= 0.40 kg

Mass of sand to fill the hole

= 2.545 – 0.400 = 2.145 kg

Using again, Density = Mass/Volume

Volume of the hole = 1.35 x 10-3 m3

Bulk density of soil from the hole

= 2050 kg/m3

Question 4 (c)

Tabulated data :
Mass of compacted soil + mould (g) 2895 3070 3130 3116 3048
Mass of mould (g) 1040 1040 1040 1040 1040
Mass of compacted soil (g) 1855 2030 2090 2076 2008
Bulk density (Mg/m3) 1.855 2.030 2.090 2.076 2.008
Mass of container (g) 9.40 9.30 9.30 9.50 9.50
Mass of wet soil + container (g) 20.10 19.41 21.17 19.34 20.14
Mass of dry soil + container (g) 19.20 18.32 19.60 17.81 18.20
Moisture content (%) 9.1 12.1 15.2 18.4 22.2
Dry density (Mg/m3) 1.700 1.812 1.814 1.753 1.643

(Note : Cylindrical mould used in this test has a volume of 0.001m3 and a mass of 1040g)
 Use this equation to find the dry density;

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m

Maximum Dry Density = 1.825 Mg/m3

Optimum Moisture Content = 13.5 %

Question 4 (d)
ECG303 Soil Mechanics June 2018
Solution :

Question 4 (a)

Objectives of compaction :
• Increase shear strength and bearing capacity
• Increase stiffness reduce settlement
• Decrease the void ratio and permeability

Question 4 (b) (i)

Bulk density 2.052 2.193 2.258 2.38 2.164

(Mg/m3)
Moisture 4.56 6.21 8.19 10.9 13.59
content (%)
Dry density 1.962 2.064 2.087 2.018 1.905
(Mg/m3)

From the graph :

• MDD = 2.09 Mg/m3
• OMC = 7.9 %
Question 4 (b) (ii)

Selection of moisture content variables are based on the same value as the moisture
content in the earlier data (easy to plot as it will be on the vertical line) :

Moisture content (%) 4.56 6.21 8.19 10.9 13.59

0% Dry density 2.36 2.27 2.17 2.05 1.94

Air voids line (Mg/m3)

10% Dry density 2.12 2.04 1.96 1.85 1.75

Air voids line (Mg/m3)

Plot the Moisture Content and Dry density pairs with each 0% and 10% on the same
graph as given above in 4(b).

Question 4 (b) (iii)

(c) Used the value obtain from (b) to find the Av.

Av = 1 - ρmax dry [ 1 + ( mopt Gs )

Gs ρ w
= 0.046 @ 4.6%

(Note Gs = 2.65)

Question 4 (c)

Soil C is selected due to the sizes of the soil grain is within the SAND size that dominates
the soil (sizes 0.06 mm to 2 mm).
It may also have a small amount of gravel.
It may also have a small amount of silt.
A variety of soil sizes.
It is also have an ample space and voids between the larger particles.
It also have well packed structure.
Easily compacted by various field compacting equipment.
ECG243 Soil Mechanics December 2018
Solution :

Question 4 (a)

Factor that contributes to the effectiveness of compaction :

• The nature and type of soil (sandy or clayey, uniform or well graded, plastic or
non-plastic)
• Water content at the time placing
• Maximum possible state of compaction attainable by the soil
• Maximum amount of compaction attainable under field conditions
• The type of compaction plant used for the compaction process (Any 4 suitable
answers)

Question 4 (b)

Compaction Consolidation

Compaction is a process where a Consolidation is a process where

mechanical pressure is used to steady and static pressure causes
compress the soil mass for the purpose compression of saturated soil.
of soil improvement.

Dynamic loads by rapid mechanical Static and sustained loading is applied

methods like tamping, rolling and for a long interval in soil consolidation.
vibration are applied for a small
interval in soil compaction.

In compaction process, soil volume is In consolidation process, soil volume is

reduced by removing air void from the reduced by squeezing out pore water
saturated and dry soil. from the saturated soil.

Compaction of soil is mainly used for Consolidation of soil is mainly used for
sandy soil. clayey soil.

Compaction is intentionally done to Consolidation is a natural process

produce a high unit weight of soil and where soil below the building and
consequently improve other soil other structure compacted by the
properties. transferred load to the soil through the
provided foundation system.

*Any 2 combinations of Compaction & Consolidation

Question 4 (c)

(i) Graph Plot

Calculating void ratio at the end of the test;

Where the sample is fully saturated Sr = 1.0
∴ e1 = m 1 G s
= (25/100) (2.65)
= 0.663

(Stage 0 to 800 kN/m2 )

Change in void ratio during the swelling stage;
∆e = ∆h (1 + e1)
hfin
= (19.25 – 18.95) (1 + 0.663)
19.25
= 0.026

e = e - ∆e (NEW “e” for the 800 kN/m2 stage to be used in next step)
= 0.663 – 0.026
= 0.637

Create a table for the calculations :

 (ii) Graph Plot

(iii) mv calculation :
For σ’o = 200 kN/m2 , eo = 0.671
& σ’1 = 300 kN/m2 , e1 = 0.660

mv = ∆e . 1
∆σ’ 1 + eo
= (0.671 – 0.660) . 1 x 103
(300 – 200) 1.858
= 0.066 m2/MN

(iv) Sc calculation :
sC = mv ∆σ’ H
= (0.066) (300 – 200) (10) 103
= 66 mm

*The changes of stress in (iv) should follow the values in (iii). Typo error in the question.
Question 4 (d)

Recommendation :

• For the 1st area, the soil is granular and gravelly condition. An economic way of
implementing field density monitoring is by using Sand Replacement Method.

• For the 2nd area, the soil is clayey condition. An economic way of implementing field
density monitoring is by using The Core Cutter Method.

• Core Cutter Method is economical but requires a 24 hour drying in order to obtain
the results; it can be utilized in any type of soil. Optional to use Speedy Moisture Kit
to obtain instant moisture content value.

• Sand Replacement Method also economical and requires a shorter time to obtain the
results but usually used only at granular soil. Optional to use Speedy Moisture Kit to
obtain instant moisture content value.

• Since that both are economical, both are recommended for the site where few sets can
be purchase for the project rather than investing on the other sophisticated and
expensive equipment such as Nuclear Density Test but it provides faster in-situ results.
ECG243 Soil Mechanics June 2019
Solution :

Question 4 (a)
Question 4 (b)

Recommendation suitable for fine grained soil :

• Core Cutter Method is economical but requires a 24 hour drying in order to obtain
the results; it can be utilized in any type of soil. Optional to use Speedy Moisture Kit
to obtain instant moisture content value.

• Sand Replacement Method also economical and requires a shorter time to obtain the
results but usually used only at granular soil. Optional to use Speedy Moisture Kit to
obtain instant moisture content value.

• Since that both are economical, both are recommended for the site where few sets can
be purchase for the project rather than investing on the other sophisticated and
expensive equipment such as Nuclear Density Test but it provides faster in-situ results.

Question 4 (c)

Mass of compacted soil + mould (g) 6359 6481 6542 6540 6425
Mass of mould (g) 4420 4420 4420 4420 4420
Mass of compacted soil (g) 1939 2061 2122 2120 2005
Bulk density (Mg/m3) 2.052 2.181 2.246 2.243 2.122
Moisture content (%) 3.29 5.62 7.30 10.9 13.86
3
Dry density (Mg/m ) 1.987 2.065 2.093 2.023 1.863

(Note : Cylindrical mould used in this test has a volume of 945 ml and a mass of 4420g)

Use this equation to find the dry density;

ρdry = ρbulk
1 +m

Maximum Dry Density = 2.1 Mg/m3

Optimum Moisture Content = 8.0 %
Question 4 (d)
 Photo Credit by : Carl Henry

“Kecantikan yang abadi terletak pada keelokan adab dan ketinggian ilmu seseorang.
Bukannya terletak pada wajah dan pakaiannya”
– Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah

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