Soil Mechanics – CENG 4313/411
Lab Report #7
Name: Yassin Aly
ID: 900202372
Date of Submission: 11/26/2023
Submitted To: Dr. Safwan Khedr
Experiment no. 1
Direct shear test
The Direct Shear experiment is utilized on soil samples to determine the parameters of
the failure envelope by applying vertical and horizontal forces and measuring deformations.
Throughout the test, the soil experiences consolidation and drainage, facilitated by a porous
stone positioned beneath the sample. As stress is applied to the sample, measurements are taken
at regular intervals until failure takes place. Following this, data from three distinct tests are used
to create plots of normal and shear stresses, assisting in the identification of the failure envelope.
Procedures & Equipment used:
This experiment procedures and equipment used will be according to ASTM D3080-72
Objectives
To ascertain the shear strength parameters, namely cohesion and internal angle
of friction, and to graphically represent the failure envelope.
Results:
Sample 1
Sample 2
Sample 3:
For three samples:
Baes on the results
C= 0
Angle of internal friction = Tan^-1(1.1395) =48.735 degrees.
All samples tested were determined to be stiff according to their graphs
Deviations
● Correction factors were not calculated due to the absence of temperature
measurements.
● The density of the sample was not computed.
● The sample was prepared in a laboratory setting rather than being obtained from
the field.
● Pre-soaking of the sample in water did not precede the experiment.
● Despite the cross-sectional shape being ellipsoidal, no adjustments were made
to the area.
● Water content of the samples was not determined.
● Residue on the machine was not cleaned before the experiment.
● Samples underwent deformation prior to placement.
● Weights of the samples were not measured.
● Readings were recorded at half-minute intervals instead of every 0.2mm of
deformation.
● The loading rate was not maintained at a constant level.
Conclusion:
In summary, this experiment offers a quick method for identifying the soil's
failure plane, requiring minimal preparation and equipment. However, the obtained
results were not highly accurate. The soil cohesion was measured at 0, indicating a lack
of cohesion, and the angle of internal friction was determined to be 48.7357 degrees.
Moreover, all tested soil samples were classified as stiff based on the shape of their
graphs. Nevertheless, various deviations in the experimental procedure could have had
a notable impact on the results. Consequently, I suggest repeating the experiment to
improve the accuracy of the outcomes.
Reference:
● ASTM
● BOWLES
● LAB NOTES