FIELD DENSITY TEST

(NUCLEAR GAUGE METHOD)

ASTM D6938
 Field density test (FDT) is a quality control test for the
compaction of soil or pavement in various construction
works. A density test is a type of materials test to determine the
density of compacted soil, rock, or other materials, either in the
field or in a lab setting. Standards may be set by government
agencies or through internal policies, and testing may need to
take place before construction can proceed, and before facilities
are opened to the public, to reduce the risk of safety problems
 Field Density Test is required for all structures
that are to be founded on ground or soil. Projects
like road construction, building foundation,
sewerage line, water-supply line, embankment
making, dam construction, culvert, and trench
construction.
 The field density test is vital in
construction projects as it ensures the
quality and stability of soil compaction.
SIGNIFICANCE Improper compaction can lead to
OF FIELD several issues, including excessive
settlement, reduced bearing capacity,
DENSITY TEST and increased potential for structural
failure. By conducting field density
tests, engineers can identify and rectify
any compaction issues early on, saving
both time and costs.
 The primary purpose of the field
density test is to measure the in-place
density of soil. By knowing the density,
PURPOSE OF engineers can determine if the soil has
FIELD DENSITY been compacted sufficiently, ensuring
its load-bearing capacity and resistance
TEST to settlement. The test also helps in
evaluating the suitability of soil for
specific construction purposes, such as
the construction of roads, foundations,
or embankments.
USE/PURPOSE OF
THE NUCLEAR
GAUGE
A nuclear density gauge is a testing device that uses low
level radiation to measure the wet density, dry density,
and moisture content of soil and granular construction
materials. Testing of compacted soil is very important, as
the test will verify that the soil conditions are suitable to
support structures, streets, highways, etc. Improper
compaction can lead to serious problems.
EQUIPMENTS
USE/PURPOSE OF
THE NUCLEAR
GAUGE
 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Keep the source in the “safe” Maintain security of the

or stored position when not in instrument at all times. The
use (this includes from one source lock shall be in place
test location to another). any time the gauge is not in
use.

The gauge shall be kept in

Keep all unauthorized
carrying case with source rod
persons out of operating area.
locked while in transit. It
Suggested distance 15 ft. (4.5
must be transported only by a
m).
certified operator in an
approved vehicle
 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

The gauge while being transported in a vehicle shall

be located in an area as far away from any person(s)
as possible (trunk of sedan, back of station or
suburban).

• Do not handle broken equipment. If you believe that

a nuclear gauge is broken, do not attempt to handle it yourself. Never handle an
unshielded radiation source. Call local authorities immediately and report it.
People who work with nuclear gauges know the appropriate steps to ensure
proper management.
 Procedure in Using Nuclear Gauge
1. Make the surface even by using a guide plate or any other suitable equipment.
2. Make a hole by pounding a steel rod with a similar diameter to that of gauges
retractable rod. The hole should be at least 50mm deeper than the intended depth
of measurement.
3. Nuclear Density Gauges normally operate in two modes.
- Direct Transmission
- Back Scatter
4. For measuring the density of soil, set the equipment to ‘Direct Transmission
Mode.
5. Lower the source rod into the hole. Set the handle to the depth position required.
6. Read the detector count on the panel. Use the calibration chart provided by the
manufacturer to obtain density of material.
7. It may be noted that the detector count is inversely proportional to the density of
the surrounding material.