Geo Tech Manual

Vidya Vikas Institute of Engineering and Technology
Alanahally, Mysore-570 028, Karnataka
Department of Civil Engineering

GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING
LABORATORY
T H
6 SEMESTER
REFERENCE MANUAL
M.N. Shesha Prakash

and
N R Krishnaswamy
Geotechnical Engineering Laboratory Reference Manual
NAME ---------------------------------------------------------------
USN ---------------------------------------------------------------
Dept of Civil Engineering, Vidya Vikas Institute of Engineering and Technology, Mysore i
Instruction
1) Students are required to wear aprons while conducting experiments

2) Manuals are compulsory and will be provided in the laboratory.
3) Calculators, pencil, rubber, metallic scale, observation book should be
brought by the students.
4) Student should not start the experiment without the instructions of the
concerned staff members.
5) Equipments used in the laboratory should be returned in the same
condition (after cleaning) to the stores.
6) Student will be responsible for any damages to the equipments which are
used by them.
7) The Record of the previous experiment should be submitted every week
before starting new experiment.
8) Experiments should be conducted with the presence of lab instructor (lab
staff) only.
9) Relevant codes of practices are available in the laboratory for reference.
10) All the questions concerned with the experiments should be answered in
the observation book and should be submitted after the experiment over
Dept of Civil Engineering, Vidya Vikas Institute of Engineering and Technology, Mysore ii
FOREWORD
This Geotechnical Engineering Laboratory Instructions manual has been prepared

to conform as closely as possible to the prescribed syllabus of VTU and the standards
specified by the Bureau of Indian Standards, on laboratory testing of soils for Civil
Engineering purposes.
There are in all 12 experiments, each experiment requiring 3-4 hours of

Laboratory work. This instruction manual has excluded the information and procedures
involved in demonstration experiments such as the hydrometer test, free swell index test,
swell pressure test, test for determining relative density of sands etc.
It is emphasized that as far as possible SI Units are used in the instructions

manual .However, it is possible to express all the final results in SI Units by proper
conversions; because the commonly available equipments using grams and centimeters
cannot be avoided.
Dr. M.N. Shesha Prakash, Vice Principal, Professor and Head of Civil
Engineering Department, VVIET, Mysore and Dr. N. R. Krishnaswamy, Professor,
VVIET, Mysore acknowledge enthusiastic efforts of the 6th semester Civil Engineering
students [2006 Batch] of VVIET, Mysore-28, for initiating the preparation of this
manual.
Date: Jan 2011

Mysore
←♦→
Dept of Civil Engineering, Vidya Vikas Institute of Engineering and Technology, Mysore iii
LIST OF EXPERIMENTS
Expt Title of the Experiment Page

1 Tests for determination of Specific Gravity & Moisture Content
2 Grain Size Analysis of Soil Samples (Sieve Analysis)
3 In-situ Density by Core Cutter and Sand Replacement Methods
4 Liquid Limit (Casagrande and Cone Genetration Methods), Plastic
Limit and Shrinkage Limit
5 Standard Proctor Compaction Test and Modified Proctor Compaction
Test
6 Co-efficient of Permeabilityby Constant Head and Variable Head
Methods
7 Unconfined Compression Test
8 Direct Shear Test
9 Triaxial Compression Test, (uu)
10 Consolidation test – determination of compression index & coefficient
of consolidation
11 Laboratory vane shear test
12 Determination of CBR value
REFERENCES
Dept of Civil Engineering, Vidya Vikas Institute of Engineering and Technology, Mysore iv
TABULAR FORMAT:-
Sl.No. OBSERVATIONS 1 2 3
1 Weight of pycnometer ( W1gm )
2 Weight of Pycnometer + Dry soil ( W2 gm )
3 Weight of Pycnometer + Water + Soil ( W3 gm )
4 Weight of Pycnometer + Water ( W4 gm )
5 Specific Gravity
6 Average Specific gravity
SPECIMEN CALCULATIONS:-
Dry Wt of soil
G = ---------------------------------------
Wt of equal volume of water
W2- W1
G = ---------------------------------------
(W4 - W1) -(W3 - W2)
Wd
G = ---------------------------------------
(W2 - W1) -(W3 - W4)
Wd
G T = ---------------------------------------
Wd - (W3 - W4)
W2- W1 GT
G 27°C = ----------------------------------------- X --------
(W2 - W1) - (W3 - W4) G TS
Where G T = Sp Gravity of distilled water at the room temperature

G TS = Sp gravity of distilled water at the standard temperature 27°C (0.99654)
RESULTS:-
Average Specific Gravity = _____________________
Typical values of specific gravity of soil particles
SL.No Soil type Value of G

1 Sand 2.64-2.67
2 Slit 2.68-2.70
3 Clay 2.70-2.80
4 Soil containing mica or iron 2.85-2.90
5 Organic soils 1.26-2.20
Dept of Civil Engineering, Vidya Vikas Institute of Engineering and Technology, Mysore 1
EXPERIMENT - 1:
TESTS FOR DETERMINATION OF SPECIFIC GRAVITY &
MOISTURE CONTENT
OBJECTIVES:-
I. To determine the specific gravity of soil using Pycnometer.
II. To determine the water content of the given soil sample.
I. Determination of Specific gravity.
APPARATUS/EQUIPMENTS:-
Pycnometer, Sensitive balance of sensitivity accurate to 0.001g, Glass rod, Heat source, Oven.
THEORETICAL DISCUSSIONS:-
Specific gravity of soil is an important parameter used in calculating void ratio, degree of
saturation, unit weight & other properties of soil. Specific gravity of soil solids is determined by
50 ml density bottle in the case of fine grained soils & 500 ml or 1000 ml Pycnometer in the case
of coarse grained soils.
PROCEDURE:-
1) Weigh the dry & empty Pycnometer (W1).
2) Take about 200 g oven dried soil & put it in the Pycnometer & weigh (W2).
3) Add some distilled water in it & mix it thoroughly with glass rod. Add some more water
& stir it. Then fill the Pycnometer by water up to the brim. Dry the Pycnometer from out
side with a cloth & weigh (W3).
4) Empty the Pycnometer, clean it thoroughly & fill it with distilled water upto the brim &
weigh. (W4).
5) Repeat the steps from 2 to 4 for two more readings & find the average specific gravity.
PRECAUTIONS:-
It is important to remove the entrapped air by boiling / shaking / vacuum, during the
Experiment.
LIMITATIONS:-
In case of swelling clays, kerosene should be used instead of water & the Specific gravity
can be found using the following formula:-
Specific gravity of Kerosene at 27°C = 0.773 = G Kerosene
Wd X G Kerosene
G = --------------------------- =
Wd - (W3 - W4)
OBSERVATIONS:-
W1 = Weight of container + lid = _______________
W2 = Weight of container + lid + wet soil = _______________
W3 = Weight of container + lid + dry soil = _______________
TYPICAL CALCULATIONS:-
W2-W3
w = -------------------- X 100%
W3-W1
RESULTS:-
Average Water Content = _____________________%
II. Determination of Water Content.
APPARATUS / EQUIPMENTS:-
Suitable air tight container, balance, oven and desiccators.
The Water Content of the representative soil sample is entering into almost every
calculation in geotechnical methods. This is normally done in the laboratory by oven drying
method.
PROCEDURE:-
1) Weigh a clean metallic container (W1) with identification mark with both container and
lid.
2) Keep the wet soil specimen in a clean metallic container with lid and identification marks
on both and weigh i.e. ;( top &bottom of the container) (W2).
3) Put the container with in the wet soil in a thermostatically controlled oven for about 24
hrs under a temperature between 105°C & 110°C, so that complete drying is assured.
4) Cool the container with the dried soil in a desiccator.
5) Then weigh the container with dry soil (W3).
6) Repeat the steps from 1 to 5 for atleast 3 times on identical sample and calculate the
average water content.
VIVA QUESTIONS:-
1) Define specific gravity?
2) What are the typical values of specific gravity for sandy soil used in the lab?
3) How do you convert the specific gravity at room temperature to the standard temperature
27°C?
4) When do you use Kerosene instead of distilled water for determining specific gravity of
the soil?
5) What will happen to the soils kept in the oven at a temperature much higher than 110°C?
←♦→
OBSERVATIONS AND CALCULATIONS:-

Wt of dry soil sample, Ws=
TABULAR FORMAT::
Particle size Mass of soil % Mass of Cumulative % % finer

Sl.No I.S.Sieve(mm)
‘D’(mm) retained(gm) soil retained retained
1. 4.750 4.750
2. 2.000 2.000
3. 1.000 1.000
4. 0.600 0.600
5. 0.425 0.425
6. 0.300 0.300
7. 0.212 0.212
8. 0.150 0.150
9. 0.075 0.075
10. Pan -
From the graph,
D60
1. Coefficient of uniformity Cu = ----- =
D10
(D30)2
2. Coefficient of concavity curvature Cc = ------------- =
(D10 x D60)
3. Coefficient of soil sample as per MIT and Indian standard classification
RESULTS:-
1) Gradation of the soil =
2) IS Nomenclature =
EXPERIMENT – 2:
GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS OF SOIL SAMPLES (SIEVE
ANALYSIS)
OBJECTIVE:-
To determine the grain size distribution of coarse grained soils by sieving.
Balances sensitive upto 0.1cm of the weight of sample, set of I.S sieves (4.75mm,
2.00mm, 1.00mm, 600 µ, 425 µ , 300 µ , 212 µ ,150 µ and 75µ),mechanical sieve shaker.
Grain size distribution of soils should be determined in order to know the gradation and
classification of granular soils. The classification of soils is useful in determining the suitability
of the soil for construction of roads, run ways, railway tracks etc;
PROCEDURE:-
1) Take 500gm of oven dry soil passing through 4.75mm sieve and is placed on the stack of
I.S.Sieves mentioned above.
2) Keep the stack of sieves with the top most lid and pan at the bottom in a mechanical
Sieve shaker and shake the same for 10minutes.
3) Remove the stack of sieves from the shaker and obtain the weight of material retained on
each sieve.
4) Compute the percentage of soil retained on each sieve by dividing the weight retained on
each sieve by the weight of original sample taken (500gm).
5) Compute the percentage finer by starting with 100%and subtracting the percentage
retained on each sieve by a cumulative procedure.
6) Prepare a semi logarithmic plot of grain size v/s %finer.
PRECAUTIONS:-
1) If the soil is wet it should be dried in the oven.
2) If loss of weight of soil is more than 2%, then the experiment should be repeated.
LIMITATIONS:-
This is only suitable for coarse grained soils.
Guidelines for classification of granular soils:

If 50% or more of soil fraction is coarser than 4.75 mm, the soil is termed as gravel soil with
letter symbols GW, GP, GM or GC.
If more than 50 % of the soil fraction is coarser than 0.075 mm microns (but finer than 4.75mm),
the soil is termed as sand with letter symbols SW, SP, SM or SC.
If soil has less than 5% particles finer than 0.075mm, it is given the symbols: GW, GP, SW, SP
If soil has more than 12% particles finer than 0.075mm, it is given the symbols: GM, GC, SM,
SC
5% to 12% - border line cases requiring the use of dual symbols
Letter
Description Classification criteria
symbol
Well graded gravels, gravel-sand mixture;
GW Cu > 4; Cc between 1 and 3
little or no fines
Poorly graded gravels or gravel-sand Not meeting gradation
GP
mixture;little or no fines requirements for GW
Silty gravels, poorly graded gravel-sand- silt Atterberg limits below” A”
GM*
mixture line or Ip less than 4
Clayey gravels, poorly graded gravel-sand- Atterberg limits below” A”
GC*
clay mixtures line or Ip greater than 7
Well graded sands gravelly sands; little or no
SW Cu > 7; Cc between 1 and 3
fines
Poorly graded sands or gravelly sands; little or Not meeting the
SP
no fines requirements for SW
Atterberg limits below” A”
SM* Silty sands,poorly graded sand-silt mixture
line or Ip less than 4
Atterberg limits below” A”
SC* Clayey sands poorly graded sand-clay mixture
line or Ip greater than 7
*
Atterberg limits plotting above A line with Ip between 4 and 7 are border line cases requiring the
use of dual symbols.
Ip= plasticity index
OBSERVATIONS:-
Trial No 1 2 3
1. Weight of core cutter(W1)
2. Weight of core cutter + soil(W2)
3. Weight of wet soil
4. Volume of core cutter
5. Container number
6. Weight of container
7. Weight of container + wet soil
8. Weight of container + dry soil
9. Weight of water = (7) – (8)
CALCULATIONS:-
Weight of soil in core cutter

Bulk density = --------------------------------------
Volume of core cutter
Weight of water
Water Content = -----------------------
Weight of dry soil
Bulk density
Dry density = ----------------------
1 + Water Content
Average Bulk density = ___________
Average Dry density = ____________
W2-W1
Bulk density, γt = ------------ gm/cc
V
where, W2 = Weight of In situ soil and core cutter
W1 = Weight of core cutter
γt
Dry density γd = ----- gm/cc
1+w
RESULTS:-
1) In situ unit weight = _______________kN/m3
2) Dry unit weight = _______________kN/m3
EXPERIMENT - 3:
IN SITU DENSITY BY CORE CUTTER AND SAND
REPLACEMENT METHODS
OBJECTIVES:-
Determination of field density of soil by
I. Core cutter method
II. Sand replacement method
I. Core Cutter Method.
APPARATUS /EQUIPMENTS:-
Cylindrical core cutter made of steel (100mm dia approximately 130mm height), steel
dolly 25mm height and 100mm dia, hammer with steel rod, knife, and balance container for
water content determination.
For quality control of earth constructions like embankments, roads, air fields’ etc. measurements
of In situ density is essential. In the core cutter method the weight of the soil in the core cutter
when divided by the volume of the core cutter gives the density of soil In situ.
PROCEDURE:-
1) Inner diameter of core cutter is measured and weighed.
2) Small area of about 30sq.cm is chosen and leveled. Dolly is fixed on top of the core
cutter and the whole assembly is driven into the soil until the top of dolly protrudes about
1.5cm above the surface.
3) With the help of straight edge the cutter is dug-out from soil and the end of cutter is
trimmed flat .Other end of the dolly is removed and trimmed off.
4) Cutter full of soil is weighed.
5) The soil sample is kept in oven for 24hrs to determine the water content.
6) The average wet and dry density values are obtained by repeating the test at 2 or 3 nearby
locations.
VIVA QUESTIONS:-
1) What do you understand by well graded soil, poorly graded soil, gap graded soil and
uniformly graded soil?
2) Explain the following notations / designations of the soil:GW,GP,SW,SP,GM,GC,SM,SC
3) How can you determine the gradations of fine grained soils?
4) Define Uniformity coefficient.
5) What do you understand by coefficient of curvature/gradation?
6) How can you arrive at coefficient of permeability of filter sands using D10 of the soil?
OBSERVATIONS:-
1. Wt of sand in pouring cone, Wcone = __________
2. Volume of calibrating container = ______________
3. Wt of sand in calibrating container + cone = ________
4. Wt of excavated wet soil = ____________________
5. Wt of container (water content determination) = _______
6. Wt of container + wet soil = _______________________
7. Wt of container +dry soil = ________________________
8. Wt of dry soil, (6) – (7) =__________________________
9. Wt of sand in excavated hole and cone, (W1-W6) = ______
CALCULATIONS:-
1) Weight of sand in calibrating container, [Wcy+ cone -Wcone] = _____
Weight of sand in calibrating container

2) Density of sand = ------------------------------------------------- =
Volume of calibrating container
(W1-W4)- Wcone
= ---------------------- =
Vc
3) Weight of sand in excavated hole = (W1-W6) - Wcone = ________
Weight of sand in excavated soil

4) Volume of hole = ---------------------------------------- = _________
Density of sand
Weight of excavated soil

5) Bulk density of soil = --------------------------------- = ___________
Volume of hole
Weight of water
6) Water Content = ------------------------ x 100 = ___________
Weight of dry soil
Bulk density
7) Dry density = ---------------------------------- = ____________
1 + Water Content / 100
RESULTS:-
1) Bulk unit weight = _______________ kN/m3
2) Dry unit weight = _______________ kN/m3
II. Sand Replacement Method.
OBJECTIVE:-
To determine the dry density of compacted soils In situ.
Sand pouring cylinder fitted with conical funnel and shutter of capacity 3 liters, cylindrical
calibrating container, and metal tray with 10cm dia central hole, container for water content
determination, balance, tools for excavating etc.
A circular hole is dug in to ground, all the soil from within it collected, weighed and dried.
The hole is back filled with standard uniform sand, poured from calibrated container for
calibrating the volume of hole. The excavated soil is weighed using a balance .If the volume
of excavated soil is determined indirectly with the help of standard uniform sand and thus the
field density of soil is determined.
PROCEDURE:-
1) Weigh the empty “Sand-pouring- cylinder” (Wcy).
2) Sand-pouring-cylinder is filled with sand till top and weighed (W1).
3) Allow the sand to run out by operating the shutter of cylinder which is placed on
glass plate .When there is no further movement of sand the shutter can be shut.
Weight of sand filling the pouring cone is obtained by weighing the sand collected on
glass plate (Wcone).
4) Volume of calibrating container is determined (Vc=heightxArea).
5) Place the cylinder on top of container to fill the sand by allowing sand to run out of
container (W4 ). Weight of sand filling the container and cone is determined
[Wcy+cone =(W1-W4)].
6) About 45sq.cm area is chosen and leveled. Tray is placed on leveled surface and a
hole of approximately 10cm diameter and 15cm depth is excavated. Excavated soil
obtained is weighed. Water content is determined by keeping the soil sample in the
oven (WWetsoil).
7) Inside the cylinder a sand core is placed and the shutter is opened and the sand is
allowed to run out the hole. Shutter is closed when there is no further movement of
sand is noted. Weight of cylinder with remaining Sand above the shutter(W6).
8) Weight of standard sand filling the hole and cone is measured (W1-W6).
VIVA QUESTIONS:-
1) What are the advantages & disadvantages between the core cutter method and sand
replacement method?
2) Which method is better suited for determination of In situ density?
3) What do you understand by the notations γt, γd, γsat and γb?
4) What is the role of standard sand in sand replacement method?
5) Is there any alternative material instead of using standard sand in the sand
replacement method?
←♦→
OBSERVATIONS:-
Determination
1 2 3 4 5 6
number
Number of blows
Can number
Weight of can + wet

soil (g)
Weight of can + dry
soil (g)
Weight of water (g)
Weight of can(g)
Weight of dry soil(g)
Water content (%)
RESULTS:-
Liquid Limit By Casagrande’s Method = ____________
EXPERIMENT – 4:
LIQUID LIMIT (CASAGRANDE AND CONE PENETRATION
METHODS), PLASTIC LIMIT AND SHRINKAGE LIMIT
OBJECTIVE:-
To determine the Atterberg limits namely liquid limit (Casagrande and Cone penetration
methods), plastic limit and shrinkage limit.
I. LIQUID LIMIT BY CASAGRANDE’S METHOD
Casagrande type liquid limit device, grooving tools, porcelain evaporating dish, flexible
spatula, balance, air tight containers to determine water content, desiccators, 425µ IS sieve.
THEORETICAL DISCUSSIONS: -
When a soil is in liquid state, it offers no resistance to deformation. The shear strength of
the soil at this stage is zero. As the water content of the soil is reduced, it becomes stiffer and
stiffer and below the L.L. it starts offering resistance to deformation. The L.L. along with P.L.
and S.L. furnish an excellent basis for the classification and identification of fine grained soils.
They are also often used directly in specifications for earth works. The L.L. is also useful in
approximately predicting the compressibility of soil layers.
PROCEDURE:-
1) Take about 120g of soil passing 425µ IS sieve and mix it thoroughly with distilled water
to form a uniform paste.
2) Adjust the fall of the cup of L.L. device to 1cm for one revolution of the handle.
3) Place a portion of the paste in the cup of the L.L. device, smooth the surface off to a
maximum depth of 1cm.Divide the soil in the cup by a firm stroke of the grooving tool
along the diameter through the centre line of the soil sample so that a clean, sharp groove
of 2mm width at the bottom is formed.
4) Lift and drop the cup by turning the crank at the rate of two revolutions per second until
the two halves of the soil come in contact with each other for a distance of about 10mm.
The number of blows thus required shall be recorded. Take approximately 10g of the soil
near the closed groove for moisture content determination.
5) Repeat these above steps for at least three more trials, with the soil collected in the
evaporating dish, and altering its moisture content to bring the soil to more fluid or
plastic condition as the case may be. Note the number of blows and determine the
moisture content (w) in each case.
6) Make a plot of water content against logarithm of number of blows. Such a plot is known
as the flow curve and is generally a straight line. The moisture content corresponding to
25 blows is read from this curve and reported as liquid limit of the soil.
PRECAUTIONS:-
1) The moisture content of the soil to be tested shall be so altered that the number of blows
required to close the groove is in the range of 15 to 35.
2) There are two types of grooving tools available, one for clayey soils and another for
sandy soils. Use the proper grooving tool depending on the type of soil.
OBSERVATIONS:-
A graph representing water content in the Y-axis and the cone penetration on the X-axis
(using semi log sheet) shall be prepared the best fitted line is drawn. The moisture content
corresponding to cone penetration of 20 mm shall be taken as the liquid limit of the soil.
RESULTS:-
Liquid Limit by Cone Penetration Method = ____________
II. LIQUID LIMIT BY CONE PENETRATION METHOD
The basic principle is to observe depths of penetration of the soil at various moisture
content of a metal cone of certain weight and apex angle with a point just touching the surface is
allowed to drop into the surface of the soft clayey soil.
Cone penetration device, Balance, Water content cans, oven etc.
PROCEDURE:-
1) Take about 150gm of soil passing through 425micron sieve in a porcelain dish mix with
distilled water into a uniform paste.
2) The wet soil paste should be transferred to the cylindrical cup of cone penetration device,
ensuring that no air is trapped in this process. Finally level the paste up to the top of the
cup and place it on the base of the cone penetration device.
3) Adjust the penetrometer such that the cone point just touches the surface of the soil paste
in the cup clamp the device in this position. The initial reading should be adjusted to
zero. Release the vertical clamp of the cone to penetrate into the soil paste under its own
weight.
4) Record the penetration of the cone after five seconds to the nearest mm. Test should be
repeated at least to have 4 sets of penetration values in the range of
14-28 mm’s.
5) Find out the moisture content of the soil paste for each trail.
OBSERVATIONS: -
Determination number 1 2 3 4
Can number
Weight of can + wet soil (g)
Weight of can + dry soil (g)
Weight of water (g)
Weight of can (g)
Weight of dry soil (g)
Water content (%)
RESULTS:-
Average Plastic Limit =
Flow index =
Toughness index =
Liquidity index =
Consistency index =
III. PLASTIC LIMIT

Porcelain dish, 50cmX50cm flat glass plate, spatula, air tight cans, balance, oven, 10cm
long rod of 3mm diameter.
Plastic limit is defined as the moisture content at which a soil passes from plastic state to
semi solid state. The soil is in a plastic state in the range of moisture content from liquid limit
(L.L) to plastic limit (P.L). Thus L.L. - P.L. = P.I, plasticity index.
PROCEDURE:-
1) Mix about 20g of soil passing through 425µ IS sieve with distilled water in a porcelain
dish till the soil mass becomes plastic enough to be easily moulded with fingers.
2) Form a ball with about 8g of this plastic soil mass and roll between the fingers and the
glass plate with just sufficient pressure to roll the mass into a thread of uniform diameter
of 3mm throughout its length. The rate of rolling should be between 80-90 strokes per
minute. The soil shall then be kneaded together to a uniform mass and rolled again.
3) Continue this process of alternate rolling and kneading until the thread crumbles when it
approximately reaches a diameter of 3mm.
4) Collect the pieces of crumbled soil threads and determine its moisture content.
5) The moisture content so determined is the plastic limit of the soil. Repeat the above steps
at least three times and calculate the average plastic limit of the soil.
DEFINITIONS:-
1) Flow index is the slope of the flow curve. The slope is expressed as the difference in
moisture contents at 10 and 100 blows.
2) Toughness index = Plasticity index/flow index
3) Liquidity index = (natural moisture content – plastic limit)/plasticity index
4) Consistency index = (liquid limit - natural moisture content)/plasticity index
OBSERVATIONS:-
I Volume of wet soil:
Evaporating dish number 1 2 3
Weight of mercury filling shrinkage dish +weight of

evaporating dish (g)
Weight of evaporating dish(g)
Weight of mercury filling evaporating dish(g)
weight of mercury filling

evaporating dish
Volume of wet soil, V = --------------------------------- (cm3)
13.6
II Water content of wet soil:
Shrinkage dish number 1 2 3
Weight of shrinkage dish (g) Wc
Weight of shrinkage dish + wet soil(g) W1c
Weight of shrinkage dish + dry soil (g) W2c
Weight of dry soil, Wd(g) W2c -Wc
Weight of water(g) Ww
(W1c -Wc)- (W2c -Wc)

Water content of soil,w = ----------------------------
(W2c -Wc)
III Volume of dry soil:
Evaporating dish number 1 2 3

Weight of mercury displaced by dry soil +weight
of evaporating dish (g)
Weight of evaporating dish(g)
Weight of mercury displaced by dry soil (g)
Volume of dry soil, Vd = weight of mercury
displaced by dry soil / 13.6 (cm3)
IV. SHRINKAGE LIMIT

Porcelain large dish, shrinkage dish, glass cup, glass plates, spatula, straight edge, 425µ
IS sieve, balance, oven, mercury, desiccators, distilled water bottle.
Shrinkage limit is the moisture content at which further reduction in the soil mass will not
lead to decrease of volume in soil mass.
Let,
Weight of wet soil = W1 (g)
Volume of wet soil, V1 = volume of dish
Weight of dry soil = W2 (g)
Volume of dry soil = V2
Loss of volume = V1- V2
Weight of water at shrinkage limit =?
Loss of weight of water till the start of S.L. = ρw (V1- V2)
Total loss of water = W1-W2 (g)
Therefore,
Weight of water at S.L = total loss of water – loss of water at the start of S.L.
= W1-W2 - ρw (V1- V2)
S.L. = water content at shrinkage = 100[W1-W2 - ρw (V1- V2)]/ W2
 ( W -W ) ρ ( V -V ) 
S.L.% =  1 2 − w 1 2  ×100
 W2 W2 
 ( W1 -W2 ) 
Where   = water content = w%
 W2 
ρw =1
W2 = Wd
V1 = V
V2 = Vd
 ( V -V ) 
Percentage Shrinkage limit = w =  1 d  × 100
 Wd 
PROCEDURE:-
1) Take about 100g of soil passing through 425µ IS sieve in a porcelain dish.
2) Place about 30g of this soil sample in another porcelain dish and mix it thoroughly with
distilled water.
3) Clean the shrinkage dish and determine its weight accurate to 0.1g. Determine the
volume of the shrinkage dish by filling it with mercury. Transfer the mercury in the
shrinkage dish to another porcelain dish and then determine the weight of mercury
accurate to 0.1g. the weight of mercury per unit weight is equal to the volume of
shrinkage dish which is also the volume of the wet soil.
4) Coat the inside of the shrinkage dish with a thin layer of silicon grease. Strike off the
excess soil face with a straight edge after filling the shrinkage dish with wet soil. Wipe
off the soil adhering to the outside of the dish.
5) Weigh immediately the shrinkage dish plus the wet soil accurate to 0.1g. Keep the
shrinkage dish open to air until the color of the soil sample turns from dark to light. Keep
the shrinkage dish in the oven at 105°C - 110°C. Cool the dish in the desiccator and
weigh immediately.
Wd γ ρ
Shrinkage ratio, S.R. at S.L. = = d = d = =
Vdγ w γ w ρ w
where, Wd = weight of oven dry pat (g)
Vd = volume of oven dry pat (cc)
Volumetric shrinkage, V.S. = (w1- ws) x S.R. = =

( V1 -Vd ) ×100
Vd
Where, w1 = given moisture content %
Ws = S.L. %
3
100
Linearshrinkage, L.S. % = 1 −
( V.S. + 100 )
6) Determine the volume of dry soil by keeping a glass cup in the evaporating dish. Fill the
cup to overflow in mercury. Remove the excess mercury by pressing the glass plate
firmly over the top of the cup. Transfer the cup carefully to another evaporating dish.
Place the oven dried soil pat on the surface of mercury in the cup and carefully force the
pat into the mercury by pressing it by the same glass plate. Press the plate firmly on the
top of the cup. Collect carefully the displaced mercury and weigh to an accuracy of
0.01g. The volume of the dry soil is then determined by dividing this weight by the unit
weight of mercury
PRECAUTIONS:-
While filling the wet soil paste into the shrinkage dish, gentle and sufficient tapping of a
dish against a wooden surface should be done to remove entrapped air.
VIVA QUESTIONS:-
1) What are the practical applications of liquid limit, plastic limit and plasticity index of
soils?
2) Why do you use the soil passing from 425µ IS sieve to determine L.L., P.L. & S.L.?
3) If a thread of 5mm is made instead of 3mm, then what is the effect of P.L.?
4) What is the degree of saturation of a soil at P.L.?
5) What is the degree of saturation of a soil at S.L.?
6) Does volume increase on addition of water at S.L.?
7) What are the factors affecting the value of S.L.?
8) What is the effect of air bubbles on S.L.?
9) Why do you use mercury to determine the volume of wet and dry soil pat? Can you use
any other material?
←♦→
OBSERVATIONS & TYPICAL CALCULATIONS:-
1g (force) = 9.81 X 10-3 N
1g/cm3 (*density) = 9.81 kN/m3
Internal diameter of mould (D) = _________mm
Height of mould (L) (without collar) = ________mm
Volume of mould (V) = ________mm3
Weight of empty mould + base plate, W1 = _________g
Weight of wet soil+ mould+ base plate W2 = _________g
W1c = Weight of container + lid = _______________
W2c = Weight of container + lid + wet soil = _______________
W3c = Weight of container + lid + dry soil = _______________
W2 -W1
1) Buld unit weight of compaced soil ( γ t ) = = = kN/m3
V
γt
2) Dry unit weight ( γ d ) = = = kN/m3
1+W1
W − W3c
3) Water content ( w ) = 2c ×100 = = kN/m3
W3c − W1c
G.γ w
4) Void ratio ( e ) = = =
γd
where G= Sp.gr of soil grains
1. Plot γd vs w
2. Calculate the γd at 100% saturation by the formula
Gγ w [Note: wG =S.e]
[γ d ]s =1 = = = kN/m 3
G
1+ w  
S
3. Plot [γd] s=1 vs w on the same graph to get zero air voids curve
EXPERIMENT - 5: STANDARD PROCTOR COMPACTION
TEST AND MODIFIED PROCTOR COMPACTION TEST
OBJECTIVE:-
To find the Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) and Dry Density by Standard Proctor
Compaction test and Modified Proctor Compaction test.
Standard Proctor mould, Modified Proctor mould, Sample extruder, Balances-one with
capacity 10kg sensitive to 1g & other with capacity 200g sensitive to 0.01g,oven,water content
containers, steel straight edge,4.75 mm IS sieve, Metallic rammers, Mixing Tools such as big
tray, spoon, trowel, spatula etc;
Compaction of soil can be achieved by rolling, vibrating and damping of the soil which is
essential during the construction of earth dams, embankments etc;The factors which affect the
compaction of soil are the type of soil, method of compaction, energy inputs and the water
content. Proctor demonstrated that for a given soil and compactive energy, the dry density
attained is a maximum at a particular water content called Optimum Moisture Content (OMC).
PROCEDURE:-
1) Measure the internal dimensions of the Proctor mould and thus calculate its volume (V).
2) Weigh the weight of the empty mould & base plate (W1). Smear with a thin layer of oil
the inner surface of the base plate, Proctor’s mould and its collar.
3) Take 3 kg of soil passing through 4.75mm IS sieve in a large tray. Add enough water to
bring its water content up to 7 % (sandy soil) or 10 % (clayey soil) less than the probable
OMC of the soil.
4) Attach the collar and base plate to the Proctor’s mould.
5) Mix the matured wet soil thoroughly. Take about 3 kg of soil and compact it in the
Proctor’s mould in 3 equal layers, each layer being given 25 blows from the rammer
weighing 2.6kg, dropping from a height of 310mm in the case of Standard Proctor mould.
In the case of Modified Proctor mould a bigger mould of capacity 2250ml is used. In case
of Modified Proctor test 5 kg of soil should be taken and should be compacted in 5 equal
layers. The base plate is detached and the mould is weighted with compacted soil (W2).
Each layer given 56 blows from the rammer weighing 2.6 kg dropping from a height of
310mm.
6) Remove the collar and cut the excess soil with the help of straight edge. Clean the mould
from outside and weigh to the nearest gram. Take out the soil from the mould. Cut it in
the middle and keep a representative soil specimen for Water content determination.
7) Repeat the steps 5 & 6 for about 5 or 6 times using a fresh part of soil by adding a higher
Water content than the preceding specimen.
TABULAR FORMAT:-
SL.NO. Weight of mould Weight of Bulk unit weight

+base plate+ compacted soil W2 – W1
compacted soil = W2 -W1 γt = ----------------
(W2) g (g) V
(kN/m3)
1
2
3
4
5
6
RESULTS:-
Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) = ______
Maximum Dry density = ______
PRECAUTIONS:-
The blows from the rammer should be uniformly distributed over the surface of each
layer. Each layer of compacted soil should be scratched with a knife before putting the soil for
the next layer. The amount of soil used should be just sufficient to fill the mould leaving about
5mm to be struck off when the collar is removed. Find the Penetration resistance of compacted
soil using a Proctor’s needle at this stage.
LIMITATIONS:-
Standard Proctor Compaction test is equivalent to Light Compaction test of IS 2720.The
Modified Proctor Compaction test is equivalent to Heavy compaction test of IS 2720.
VIVA QUESTIONS:-
1) On what factors would OMC depend for a given soil? Explain.
2) Prove that the ratio of compactive energy between the two tests is 4.55:1.
3) What are the different types of rollers that are used for compaction work in the field?
4) How do you control the quality of work done in field compaction projects?
5) Distinguish clearly between compaction & consolidation.
←♦→
OBSERVATIONS:-
h = head causing flow. A= Area of cross section of the soil sample
L = length of soil sample. t = time in seconds
V= volume of soil sample. Q= total volume of water collected in t, second
h
Hydraulic gradient, i =
L
1st test =
2nd test =
3rd test =
Vavg = coefficient of Permeability of soil,

Q
K=
Ai t
Test temperature = Permeability at 27ºC =
CALCULATIONS:-
W
Bulk unit weight = = =
V
w= water content
Bulk unit weight
Dry unit weight = = =
1+ w
RESULT:-
K=
Typical Values of K
SL.No Soil type Coefficient of permeability(mm/s)
1 Gravel 10 to1000
2 Sand 10-4 to 10
3 Silt 10-7 to 10-4
4 Clay < 10-7
EXPERIMENT - 6:
CO-EFFICIENT OF PERMEABILITYBY CONSTANT HEAD
AND VARIABLE HEAD METHODS
OBJECTIVE:-
To determine the co-efficient of permeability of coarse grain soils by the constant head
method and the co-efficient of permeability of fine grained by the variable head methods.
A suitable water reservoir for supplying constant head, a set of stand pipe for variable
head test permeameter, mixing tank, balance, stoop watch, water content cans.
THEORETICAL DISCUSSIONS: -
The property of the soil which permits water to percolate through its voids is called permeability
according to Darcy’s law in the laminar range; the velocity of flow is proportion to the hydraulic
gradient.
CONSTANT HEAD PERMEABILITY TEST:-
Vαi
V=Ki
AV = KA i
AV = flow rate = Q = KA i
QL
K=
hA
h
i = hydraulic gradient =
L
A = cross section of soil mass perpendicular to the direction of flow,
V = velocity of flow,
h = head loss in a distance L along the flow path.
VARIABLE HEAD PERMEABILITY TEST:-

If the head is not constant and the rate of fall is dh/dt then,
dh
Flow rate, Q = - a .
dt
dh KAh
-a. =
dt L
a KA
- dh. = dt
h L
Integrating the above expression, we get
 h  KAt
aln 1  =
 h2  L
aL  h1 
K= ln 
At  h 2 
where a = cross section area of stand pipe,
t = time of flow,
h1 = initial head,
h2 = final head.
OBSERVATIONS:-
a = area of stand pipe =
A = area of soil specimen =
L = Length of soil specimen =
h1= initial head in stand pipe =
h2 = final head in stand pipe =
t1 = t2= t3 =
tavg =
CALCUTATIONS:-
 aL   
K T = 2.303  × Log10  h 1 
 At  h 
 avg   2
RESULT:-
K=
LIMITATIONS:-
Generally this apparatus is used for fine grained soils only.
VIVA QUESTIONS:-
1) How does the pore affect the permeability?
2) Does cohesion of soil play any role in the determination of permeability?
3) Compare the values of permeability obtained from both the methods and state
4) The probable cause for any difference in the two values.
5) Does temperature play any significant role in computing K?
←♦→
VARIABLE HEAD METHOD OR FALLING HEAD METHOD:-

a) Preparation and saturation of specimen are same as that of constant head method.
b) TESTING:-
1) Keep the permeameter mould assembly in the bottom tank and fill it upto its outlet.
2) Connect inlet of mould to the stand pipe filed with water. Permit water to flow for some
time until steady state of flow is reached.
3) Note the time required for water level in the stand pipe to fall from some initial value to
some final value.
4) Repeat the step (3) for 2 or 3 times for same initial and head values.
c) Determination of a:-
Collect water contained in between 2 graduations [of the stand pipe] of known
distance apart, weigh it and determine the inside area of stand pipe.
PROCEDURE:-
I. CONSTANT HEAD METHOD:-
a) Preparation Of Specimen:
1) Take about 800-1000gm of soil and mixed with water so that its water content rises
to optimum water content.
2) Grease the mould. Assemble the dynamic permeameter. Place the mould upside
down on the dynamic compaction base and weigh the assembly. Put 3cm collar to
the other end.
3) Compact the wet soil in 2-layers by applying 15 blows to each layer with 2.5kg
ramming rod. Remove the collar and trim off the excess soil and weigh the
assembly filled with soil and determine the weight of the soil, W.
4) Place the filter paper or fine wire mesh on the top of specimen and fix the
perforated base plate on it.
5) Turn the specimen upside down. Remove the compaction plate and place the porous
stone on the top of the specimen an fix up the sealing an top cap.
b) Saturation of compacted specimen:

Place the Permeameter mould in the vacuum desiccators at the open air valve. Fill
the desiccators with desired water such that it reaches the well above the top cap. Apply the
vacuum and increase gradually to about 70cm of Hg.
TESTING:-
1) Place the mould in the bottom tank and fill it with water up to its outlet. Connect the
outlet of constant head tank to the inlet of Permeameter.
2) Adjust the head by either adjusting the Relative height of mould and constant head tank
or by rising or by lowering the air intake tube within the head tank.
3) Run the test for some convenient time interval.
4) Note the duration of test by stop watch. Collect the water (V-cc) in a beaker flowing
from outlet of bottom tank and measure it.
PRECAUTIONS:-
Increase the initial head slowly and in every increment sufficient time should be given to
escape the air bubbles off the specimen without vibrating the specimen.
OBSERVATIONS:-
1) Internal diameter of specimen = D0 =
2) Initial length = L0 =
3) Initial area = A0 =
4) Initial density =
5) Initial water content =
TABULAR FORMAT:-
A 
SAMPLE LOAD DEFORMATION STRAIN (Є) A =  o −ε STRESS
SL.No
NO. (kg) (mm) ∆L (%)  l  (kg/cm2)
(cm2)
CALCULATIONS:-
Stress-strain values should be calculated as follows:-
∆L
a) Axial strain = ε = = =
Lo
where, Initial length of specimen= L0
Change in length specimen length = ∆L
b) Average/corrected c/s area of specimen @ any strain,
 Ao 
ε =A= −ε 
 l 
Load P
c) Compressive stress, σ o = = = =
Corrected area A
where, P = compressive load from calibration chart.
A = Corrected, Average c/s area @ given Є
A plot is made between stress and strain for each soil sample. The
maximum stress from curve gives the value of unconfined
compressive stress which is taken as the stress at 20% axial strain.
Find the effect of water content on the compressive strength.
RESULT:-
The Unconfined compressive strength = _____________
EXPERIMENT - 7:
UNCONFINED COMPRESSION TEST
OBJECTIVE:-
To determine the unconfined compressive strength of a cylindrical soil specimen.
APPARATUS /EQUIPMENTS:-
A compressive device to apply vertical load using appropriate loading device ,sample
ejector, dial gauges , Vernier calipers, stop watch, oven, balances etc.
Unconfined compression test is a special case of triaxial compression test in which σ3 = σ2 =0=
confining/cell pressure. The cylindrical specimen of soil,(height / dia =2) is subjected to
gradually increasing σ1 till the specimen fails along an inclined plane of failure or 20% strain in
the case of plastic or bulging failure.
The unconfined compression testing apparatus consists of a sometimes a portable small loading
frame filled with a proving ring to measure σ1 and the corresponding deformation is measured
with the help of a dial gauge. σ1 Vs deformation graphs can be plotted.
Unconfined compression test is essentially a UU test and generally applicable to saturated clays
At failure, σ1= 2 Cuu tan(45+φuu /2) =2 Cuu ( since φuu=0 for saturated clays in UU tests )
And τ f= Cuu =( σ1/2)=q uu/2
Where the compressive stress= vertical load/ changed c/s area of sample, A 2
And A = (A0/1- Є )
This test is performed on cylindrical sample. Sample is subjected to compression until it fails
Let, Initial length = L0
Change in length = ∆L
Axial strain = Є = ∆L/L0
Initial area = A0
Assuming volume of sample is constant throughout the test and area at failure is A1.
Therefore, A0.L0 = A1.L1
Where, L1= L0 - ∆L
Since compression force is applied,
A.L0 = A1 (L0 - ∆L)
A = (A0.L0/ (L0-∆L)) = A0 / (1-(∆L/L0)) = (A0/1- Є )
Strain, Є = ∆L/L0
Compressive stress, σo = (Load / Corrected area)=P/A
PROCEDURE:-
1) The mould which is to be filled with sample, oiled in advance and is filled with
mixture of soil and water which is to be tested .The internal diameter of the mould is
same as the specimen which is to be tested .The mould is opened carefully and
sample is taken out.3 identical samples are prepared for tests.
2) The initial length and diameter of the specimen is measured.
3) The specimen is placed on bottom plate of loading device and the upper plate is
adjusted to make contact with the specimen and the dial gauge is set to zero.
4) The sample is compressed until cracks are developed or until a Vertical deformation
of 20% is reached in the dial gauge at its peak of stress-strain curve is well passed.
5) Repeat the steps from 2 to 5 for other soil samples also.
6) The water content of each sample is determined.
LIMITATIONS:-
It is possible for cohesive soil only.
VIVA QUESTIONS:-
1) Why is this test possible for cohesive soil only?
2) Why is it called quick test?
3) When do you notice a brittle failure while conducting the unconfined compressive
strength test on cohesive soil?
4) When do you observe a bulging failure while conducting the UCC test on cohesive soils?
←♦→
OBSERVATIONS:-
GENERAL DATA & TABULAR FORMAT:-
Normal load (kg) =
Loading rate (mm/min) = 1.25
Normal stress σn (kg/cm2) =
Proving ring constant =
Vertical Vertical Horizontal Horizontal Proving Horizontal Shear τ

SL.
dial displacement, dial displacement, ring shear force stress
NO. σn
reading V (mm) readings H (mm) reading (kg) (kg/cm2)
SHEAR SPECIMEN DATA:-

undisturbed
Sample = = =
Remoulded
Sample dimensions =
Side, (cm) =
Height, (cm) =
Area, (cm2) =
Volume, (cm3) =
Density, (gm/cm3) =
NATURAL MOISTURE CONTENT DETERMINATION:-

Weight of container + wet sample =
Weight of container + dry sample =
Weight of water =
Weight of container =
Weight of dry sample =
% moisture content =
EXPERIMENT - 8:
DIRECT SHEAR TEST
OBJECTIVE:-
To determine the shear strength parameters of the given soil by conducting the direct
shear test in the laboratory.
Motorized direct-shear apparatus consisting of shear box assembly, two halves of the
shear box, plane gripper plate, perforated gripper plate, porous stones, top loading pad, base
plate, shear box housing with two ball roller strips, surcharge weights, compression-tension
proving ring, dial gauges etc.
Shear strength of a soil is defined as the maximum resistance offered by the soil when it
is subjected to shear stress. Shear strength of soil is equal to the shear stress induced in it under
loading, at failure.
All stability analysis in soil mechanics involves a basic knowledge of the shear strength
of the soil in question. The measurement of shear strength of a soil essentially depends on the
test data from which the Mohr-Coulomb failure envelop can be plotted. One of the popular
methods of obtaining such data in the laboratory is by direct shear test. The apparatus used for
conducting this test is the strain controlled direct shear machine, capable of generating rates of
strain from 1.25mm/min to 0.025mm/min.
DESCRIPTION OF THE APPARATUS:-

The apparatus consists of a soil container called the shear box which has two halves, the
upper and the lower half usually of 6cmx6cm size. One half is fixed and the other half can be
displaced from its original position by the application of a horizontal force and the potential
failure surface is forced on a horizontal plane. With the help of a yoke a normal load is applied to
the soil sample.
Under this normal load, increasing shear force is applied to the soil sample along the
horizontal plane situated in between the two halves of the box, until the failure of the soil is
reached. A proving ring and the dial gauges measure the shear force, and shear & vertical
displacements respectively.
PROCEDURE:-
1) Measure the dimensions of the shear box and calculate the area of cross section (A).
2) Insert the locking keys of the shear box.
3) Weigh a dish containing dry cohesionless soil to be tested. Place the bottom grip plate.
Place the soil in the shear box kept on a plane surface, tamp it gently and make a level
surface. Keep the top grip plate. Weigh the dish again and get the weight of the soil used.
Determine the thickness of soil specimen including the thickness of grip plates by
measuring the total height of the shear box and the height above the top grip plate. There
shall be sufficient thickness of the soil sample above the potential horizontal failure
plane.
4) Place the loading block on top of the grip plate.
5) Apply the desired normal load namely, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 kg/cm2, one after the other, in
the available machine.
NATURAL DENSITY DETERMINATION:-

Weight of direct shear box + wet sample (g) =
Weight of direct shear box + dry sample (g) =
Weight of direct shear box alone (g) =
Weight of wet sample (g) =
Weight of dry sample (g) =
Volume of box (cc) =
Bulk unit weight (g/cc) =
Dry unit weight (g/cc) =
NATURE OF GRAPHS:-
1) Plot the stress-longitudinal displacement readings and obtain Maximum shear stress and
(B) corresponding longitudinal displacement.
2) Plot the applied normal stress as abscissa and maximum shearing stress as ordinate. The
slope of the straight line so obtained would give the angle of shearing resistance and the
vertical intercept of the line will give the cohesion intercept.
3) Plot of volume change v/s horizontal displacement.
6) Fix the dial gauges to measure the horizontal and vertical movements. Note the initial
readings.
7) Remove the locking keys of the shear box without forgetting.
8) Apply the shear stress to the sample at a specified rate of shear displacement (usually
1.25mm/min for undrained quick tests). Take the readings on the two dial gauges and the
proving ring at suitable intervals of shear displacement (say at every 0.2mm horizontal
displacement up to about 2mm and at every 0.5mm thereafter) continue the test upto
failure.
9) Repeat the above test on three more samples of the same soil, at the same density but
with different normal loads.
10) For each test, draw the shear stress v/s shear displacement graph and find the peak value
τmax. When there is no clear peak observed, the failure stress may be taken as that
corresponding to 15% shear strain.
11) Finally plot a graph between normal stress and peak value of shear stress. Thus, find the
angle of internal friction, Φ.
PRECAUTIONS:-
1) If the sand tested is wet, there can also be a cohesion intercept in the diagram between
normal stress and τmax.
2) Take care to remove the locking keys before applying the shear force.
LIMITATIONS:-
1) The area of the sample changes as the test progresses but may not be very significant as
most samples fail at low deformations.
2) The shearing stress induced along the failure plane may not be uniformly distributed.
3) Pore water pressures cannot be measured in this test.
4) Values of E and µ cannot be determined in this test.
NOTE:-
1) On sands which have Φ > 35°, Φ values from a direct shear test can be 1° to 4° larger
than in a triaxial test. Below 35°, Φ values are about same for both the tests.
2) UU, CU & CD tests can also be conducted in direct shear test with suitable
modifications. However, for cohesionless soils all three of the above tests will give the
same results.
VIVA QUESTIONS:-
1) What do you understand by UU, CU, and CD conditions for testing the shear strength of
soils?
2) Give examples of practical engineering situations in which these forms of testing are
required.
3) Enumerate the types of laboratory shear tests you would specify to be carried out in
connection with the following field problems:
i. The stability of the clay foundation of an embankment, the rate of
construction being such that some consolidation of the clay occurs.
ii. The initial stability of a footing on saturated clay.
iii. The long term stability of a slope in stiff-fissured clay.
4) Give reasons for your choice of the test.
←♦→
SPECIMEN MEASUREMENTS:-
Initial weight =
Final weight =
Initial water content =
Final water content =
Initial Diameter,D0 =
Initial Area, Ao =
Initial Volume,V0 =
Cell pressure=
Initial length, L0 =
Initial Diameter, D0 =
Corrected Area, A=(A0/1- Є )
Where, Є = ∆L/L0
Stress = load/corrected area =P/A
TABULAR FORMAT:-
LOAD DEVIATOR
COMP.DIAL COMP.OF STRAIN CORRECTED VERTICAL STRESS
SPECIMEN GAUGE LOAD STRESS
READING SAMPLE Є=∆L/L0 AREA STRESS RATIO
READING (σ1-σ2)
σ1
SAMPLE σ3 σ1-σ3 σ1
σ3
1
σ3 = Cell pressure at failure
σ1 = Vertical stress at failure
σ1 - σ3 = Deviator stress at failure
EXPERIMENT - 9:
TRIAXIAL COMPRESSION TEST, (UU)
OBJECTIVE:-
To determine the basic shear strength soil parameter Φ and C of a given cohesionless
soil using triaxial Compression testing device. The test is to be conducted under undrained
unconsolidated Condition without measuring pore pressure
Strain controlled compression machine, triaxial cell, specimen mould, rubber membrane,
membrane structure, porous stones, balance, stopwatch trimmer, calipers.
A cylindrical soil specimen is subjected to direct stresses acting in three mutually
perpendicular direction and the other two principle stresses namely, intermediate and minor, act
in horizontal direction. Minor principle stress is constant throughout the test and major principle
circle is drawn for the stresses at failure. By Mohr’s circle shear strength of soil is determined.
PROCEDURE:-
I. SAMPLE PREPARATION
1) Mix the soil with water at desired water (optimum) content. Compact the soil properly in
the split mould which should oil properly. Trim the excess soil and takeout the specimen
mould carefully.
2) Determine the water content of the soil.
3) Place the specimen on the one of end caps and put the other end cap on top of the
specimen.
4) Place the rubber membrane all round the specimen with the help of membrane structure.
5) Seal the rubber membrane with caps by means of rubber means.
II. COMPRESSION TEST
1) Place the specimen on the pedestal in the triaxial cell.
2) Assume the cell with the loading ram.
3) Admit the operating fluid in the cell and raise its pressure to the desired value.
4) Adjust the loading machine to bring the loading ram a short distance away from the seat
on the top cap of the specimen. Read the initial reading of load measuring gauge. Bring
the loading ram just in contact with the seat on the top of the specimen. Read the initial
reading of dial gauge measuring axial compression.
5) Repeat the test on three or four specimen of same water content and same soil but under
different cell pressure.
VIVA QUESTIONS:-
1) Is it possible to conduct triaxial compression test on dry sand? How?
2) What do you understand by UU test or CU test and CD test?
3) Give one practical example regarding the utility of UU, CU and CD test respectively.
4) What is meant by “area correction” of specimen? Did you apply this correction in your
experiment?
5) What changes in the experiment are to be incorporated if pore pressure is also taken into
consideration?
CALCULATIONS:-
1) Plot (σ1-σ3) versus strain (ε) for each specimen.
2) Obtain the shear strength from Mohr’s circle and find out coefficient of cohesion also.
RESULTS:-
1) Shear strength=
2) Cohesion=
General relationship of consistency and unconfined compression strength of clays

undrained shear strength
SL. Consistency Compressive strength, untrained shear
No qu kN/m2 strength,Cu Kpa
1 Very soft 0-25 0-13
2 Soft 25-50 13-25
3 Medium 50-100 25-50
4 Stiff 100-200 50-100
5 Very stiff 200-400 100-200
6 Hard >400 >200
TABULAR FORMAT:-
(a) For pressure, compression and time.
Pressure intensity(kg/cm2) 0. 1 0. 2 0. 5 1 2 4
Elapsed
Dial Gauge Readings
time(min.) t½
0 0
0.25 0.5
1 1
2.25 1.5
4 2
6.25 2.25
9 3
12.25 3.5
25 4
36 4.5
25 5
36 6
49 7
64 8
81 9
100 10
121 11
144 12
169 13
196 14
225 15
256 16
289 17
324 18
361 19
430 20
500 22.4
600 24.5
1440 38
EXPERIMENT – 10:
CONSOLIDATION TEST – DETERMINATION OF
COMPRESSION INDEX & COEFFICIENT OF
CONSOLIDATION
OBJECTIVE: -
Determination of consolidation properties of soil: ei, ef, Cv, mv, k, av, Cc.
Fixed ring type consolidometer, suitable loading device for applying vertical loading, dial
gauge, balance thermostatically controlled oven, containers, mixing basin, glass plate, filter
paper, and stop watch.
The process of compression resulting from long term steady load and gradual reductions
of pore space by escaping of pore water is termed as consolidation. The permeability of an
undisturbed sample of clay is determined indirectly at several different void ratios while running
a consolidation test.
PROCEDURE:-
I. Preparation of soil specimen.
1) Preparation of specimen from undisturbed soil samples. The undisturbed sample from the
field may be circular (at least 1cm diameter) or a block sample. Clean the specimen ring
and weigh it empty. Cut off about 3cm to 5cm of soil specimen from one end of the
sample by pressing with hands and carefully removing the material around the ring. The
soil specimen so obtained should project about 1cm from either side of the ring. Trim the
sample smooth and flush at top and bottom of the ring by using glass plates. Clean the
ring from outside and weigh. Keep three specimens from the soil trimmings for water
content determination.
2) Preparation of specimen from representative soil sample. If the consolidation properties
are to be determined from a disturbed soil sample, soil is compacted at the desired water
content and density, in a separate large mould and then the specimen is cut as explained
in the step (1) above.
3) For the purpose of illustration, Remoulded clay specimen is used.
II. Preparation of mould assembly and sample.

1) Saturate the porous stones either by boiling in distilled water for about 15 minutes or by
keeping them submerged in distilled water for 4 to 8 hours. Wipe away excess water.
Moisture all surfaces of the consolidometer which are to be enclosed.
2) Measure the dimensions of the consolidation ring and weigh the ring accurately.
3) Fill the ring with undisturbed soil sample or remoulded sample prepared nearly at liquid
limit. Trim the soil sample.
4) Note down the weight of the ring + wet sample.
5) Assemble the consolidometer with the soil specimen (in the ring) and porous stones at
top and bottom of the specimen providing a filter paper between soil specimen and
porous stone.
OBSERVATIONS:-
For pressure, compression and time
Empty weight of ring =
Dia. Of ring =
Height of ring =
Area of ring =
Volume of ring =
Sp. gravity of soil sample =
(b)For pressure void ratio
Specim Drainage Void ratio

Applied Final dial Ht. of
pressure reading
en path
voids (H − Hs ) Fitting time Cv (cm2/min.) Av.Cc Remarks
2 height (H + H )
d= 1
e+
(kg/cm ) H H-Hs Hs
H1=H 4
d2 d2
t50 t90 0.197 0.848
t 50 t 90
0.1
0.2
0.5
1.0
2.0
4.0
8.0
(c) For water content.

SL.No Item Before test After test
1 Wt. of ring +wet soil (g)
2 Wt. of ring +dry soil (g)
3 Wt. of ring (g)
4 Wt. of dry soil , Wd (g)
5 Wt. of water (g)

Water content , w
6
7 Degree of saturation = w G
e
Vd
8 Height of solids = H s =
GA
6) Mount the mould assembly on the loading frame and centre it such that the applied load
is axial.
7) Position the dial gauge to measure vertical compression of the specimen. The dial gauge
holder should be so set the dial is the beginning of its release run, allowing sufficient
margin for the swelling of soil, if any.
8) Apply an initial seating load of 0.05 kg/cm2 to the soil sample.
9) Connect the mould assembly to the water reservoir and allow the sample to be saturated.
The level of water in reservoir is at about the same level as the specimen.
10) Allow the sample for saturation for 24 hrs.(not necessary for remoulded soil sample
prepared at liquid limit)
11) Apply a load of 0.25 kg/cm2and record compression dial gauge reading for the elapsed
times of 00., 0.25, 10., 2.25, 4.0, 6.25, 9.0, 12.25, 25.0, 36.0, 49.0, 64.0, 81.0, 100.0,
121.0, 144.0, 169.0 & 60x24minutes
12) Apply the next increment of pressure by doubling the load (0.5 kg/cm2). Repeat step 11.
Keep doubling the pressure applied such as 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0, 8.0, 16.0 or till the
anticipated pressure increase on the clay layer in the field is fully covered.
13) When the consolidation has been completed under the final load increment, unload the
sample to seating load and allow the sample to freely swell or expand for 24 hours and
note the dial gauge reading.
14) The specimen is then taken out and dried or keep the wet specimen along with the ring
in the oven for drying.
15) Find the final water content and weight of dry soil specimen, Wd.
RESULTS:-
1) Coefficient of consolidation Cv (log fitting method) =
2) Coefficient of consolidation Cv (square root fitting method) =
3) Coefficient of compressibility, av =
4) Coefficient of permeability, K =
5) Height of voids =H-Hs =
VIVA QUESTIONS:-
1) Distinguish between compaction and consolidation?
2) What do you understand by coefficient of consolidation?
3) What do you mean by corrected zero point and its significance?
4) Why the consolidation test is required?
5) Define Coefficient of compressibility.
CALCULATIONS:-
Vd
1) Height of solids (Hs) can be calculated as = H s =
GA
where, G= specific gravity of soil grains.
A = C/S area of specimen
H − Hs
2) Voids ratio = ei = i
Hs
H − Hs
3) Voids ratio = e f = f
Hs
Hi = initial thickness of specimen
Hf = final thickness of specimen after compression= Hi – (change in initial & final dial gauge
reading).
All of the above readings should be recorded under one specific pressure increment.
4) Coefficient of volume change, mv from either eq 1 or 2
 ∆e  1   a v 
m y = −   =  
 1 + ei  ∆P   1 + ei 
 e − ef  1 
= −  i   --(1)
 1 + ei  ∆P 
 H − Hf  1  2
m y =  i  m /kN --(2)
 Hi  ∆P 
d2
5) Coefficient of consolidation Cv = 0.197 (log fitting method)
t 50
d2
Cv = 0.848 (square root fitting method)
t 90
In the log fitting method, a plot is made between dial reading and logarithm of time and the
time corresponding to 50% consolidation is determined. In the square root fitting method, a plot
is made between dial reading and the square root of time and the time corresponding to 90%
consolidation is determined.
6) Compression index: A plot of void ratio ‘e’versus log 1 is made. The initial compression
curve would be found to be a straight line and the slope of this line would give you the
compression index G.
C
7) Coefficient of compressibility (av) = 0.435 c
σ1
where σ1 = average pressure for the increment.
Coefficient of permeability (k) = Cv. mv .γw m /s
Where, γw = unit wt of water
Cv = coefficient of consolidation (m2 /s)
OBSERVATIONS:-
Calculate the shear strength of the soil using the formula,
S= T/ D2 (H/2 +D/6)
S = (3/19) T
Where, H= height of vane = 2.4cm
D = dia of vane = 1.2cm
S = Shear strength (kg.f/cm2)
T = Torque (kg-f.cm)
RESULTS:-
Average of three trail tests = _____________
LIMITATIONS:-
1) Shearing strengths in the horizontal and vertical directions are the same.
2) At the peak value shear strength is equally mobilized at the end surface as well as the
centre.
3) The shear surface is cylindrical and as a diameter equal to the diameter of the vane.
PRECAUTIONS:-
It is important that the dimensions of the vane are check periodically to ensure that the
vane is not distorted or worn out.
VIVA QUESTIONS:-
1) Why do you think that vane shear test is an undrained test?
2) Is it possible to conduct vane shear test on sands? Why?
3) How do you conduct the Vane Shear test in the field? When and how?
EXPERIMENT - 11:
LABORATORY VANE SHEAR TEST
OBJECTIVE:-
To determine the low shear strength of saturated cohesive soils by conducting the
laboratory vane shear test under undrained condition.
A laboratory vane shear apparatus consisting of four blades each fixed at 90° to the
adjacent plates, porcelain dish for mixing clay soil, spatula, distilled, water etc.
The laboratory vane shear test for the measurement of shear strength of cohesive soil is
useful for soil of low shear strength of less than about 0.5kgf/cm2. This test gives the undrained
are used for evaluating the sensitivity of the soil.
The apparatus may be either of the hand operated type or motorized provisions should be
made in the apparatus for the following:
1) Fixing of vane and shaft to the apparatus such a way that the vane can be lowered
gradually and vertically into the soil specimen.
2) Fixing the tube containing the soil specimen to the base of the equipment for which it
should have suitable hole.
3) Arrangement for lowering the vane into the specimen (containing in the tube fixed to the
base Gradually and vertically and for holding the vane properly and securely in the
lowered position.
4) Arrangement for rotating the vane steadily at the rate of approximately 1/60 revolution /
min and for measuring the rotation of the vane.
5) A torque applicator to rotate the vane in the device for measuring the torque applied to an
accuracy of 0.05 kg-f.cm
6) A set of springs capable of measuring shear strength of 0.5 kgf/cm2.
PROCEDURE:-
1) About 37.5mm diameter and 75mm long specimen is taken in the tube.
2) On the base of the vane shear apparatus the specimen is mounted with specimen
container securely fixed to its base.
3) One end of the specimen container is closed and about 1mm diameter hole is
provided at the bottom.
4) With a minimum disturbance of the soil specimen the shear vane are lowered into the
specimen to their full length such that the top of the vane is at least 10mm below the
top of the specimen.
5) Until the specimen fails the vane is rotated at a uniform rate of approximately 1/60
rev/min by suitably operating the torque Applicator handle.
6) As the test proceeds the torque readings and corresponding Strain readings are noted
at the desired interval of time and the final reading of the torque indicator is
determined.
7) The vane is rapidly rotated with a minimum of 10revolution after finding maximum
torque.
8) After the completion of 1 revolution the remoulded strength should be determined
within 1min.
OBSERVATIONS:-
Surcharge wt. used =
Water content after penetration test =
TABULAR FORMAT:-
Penetration
Load dial
Dial readings Correct
readings
(penetration) load
(load)(kg)
(mm)
0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
4.0
5.0
7.5
CALCULATIONS:-
Plot the graph for load versus penetration. If the curve is concave upward in starting then,
draw a tangent at the highest point and wherever it touches abscissa that will be the corrected
zero. With respect to this zero, mark the penetration value and find the correct load
corresponding to them. Now the CBR
 correct test load) 
CBR =   ×100 = =
 standard load 
STANDARD LOAD:-
Penetration 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5
Load(1b) 3000 4500 5700 6900 7800
The CBR values are usually calculated for penetration of 2.5mm. if CBR for 5mm exceeds that
for 2.5mm, repeat the test. If identical results follow, CBR corresponding to 5mm penetration
should be taken for design.
If CBR value for 2.5mm penetration is greater than that of 5mm, 2.5 mm penetration CBR values
are taken for design.
RESULTS: -
1) CBR value =
2) At penetration =
EXPERIMENT – 12:
DETERMINATION OF CBR VALUE
OBJECTIVE:-
To determine the CBR value of the given soil sample.
CBR equipment consisting of 15.2 cm dia x 17.8cm height compaction mould with collar
and spacer disc 15.1 cm dia x 6.14cm height, compaction rammer, Surcharge weights,
compression machine equipped with CBR penetration piston.
CBR is the ratio of test load to the standard load expressed as percentage for a given
penetration of the plunger.
CGR = (test load)/ (Standard load)*100
Test load is the penetration resistance at a particular penetration and standard load is the
penetration resistance of the plunger into the standard sample (crushed stones) for that particular
penetration.
PROCEDURE:-
1) Take 6 kg soil, Mix it @ OMC.
2) Fix the base plate to bottom of mould and extension collar to its top. Apply lubricated oil.
3) Insert the spacer Disc over the base.
4) Put the filter paper on top of the spacer Disc.
5) Apply light compaction, 3 equal layers, 56 blows rammer of 2.6 kg height of fall 310mm.
6) Remove the collar and trim off the excess soil.
7) Turn the mould upside down and remove the base plate and spacer Disc.
8) Weigh to get γd .
9) Put the filter paper on top of the compacted soil and clamp the perforated base plate on it.
10) Place the surcharge weight on top of the soil specimen and place the mould assembly on
the loading machine or compaction machine.
11) Put the penetration piston at the centre of the specimen with smallest possible load but in
no case excess of 4 kg.
12) Set the stress and strain dial gauge to zero .apply the load so that penetration ratio is
approximately 1 to 5 mm/min. Note the load readings at various penetration , eg.,0.0, 0.5,
1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 7.5, 10.0, 12.5 mm. Record maximum load and penetration
before 12.5 mm penetration.
13) Take some soil specimen for water content determination at the end of loading. This soil
must be taken from the top 30mm layer of the specimen.
LIMITATION:-
This method is applicable to flexible pavements only.
VIVA QUESTIONS:-
1) What is the function of surcharge load?
2) What do you mean by a flexible pavement?
3) What is the use of CBR value in design of pavement?
4) While in designing the pavement, if you come across the situation where water table is
just below the subsoil is always saturated and submerged in water in water then what
measure will you take in design to get the right value of CBR?
REFERENCES
1) ASTM (1964), Symposium on Laboratory testing of Soils, STP No.361.

2) BOWLES J.E, Engineering Properties of Soils and their Measurements,
Mc-GRAW HILL publishing Co, New York, 3rd edition 1988.
3) BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS, SP-36(Part-I); 1987, Compendium of Indian
Standards on Soil Engineering (Part I) Laboratory Testing of Soils for Civil Engineering
purposes.
4) BRITISH STANDARDS, 1377(1995), Methods of test for Soils for Civil Engineering
purposes, British Standards Institutions, London.
5) LAMBE T.W. Soil testing for Engineers, Wiley Eastern Limited, 4th Edition reprinted,
1996.
6) Dr. B.C.PUNIMA, Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering, A.Saurabh & Co (P)
Ltd., T.Nagar, Chennai. 11th Edition, 1988.
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Vidya Vikas Institute of Engineering and Technology

Alanahally, Mysore-570 028, Karnataka

Department of Civil Engineering

M.N. Shesha Prakash

1) Students are required to wear aprons while conducting experiments

This Geotechnical Engineering Laboratory Instructions manual has been prepared

There are in all 12 experiments, each experiment requiring 3-4 hours of

It is emphasized that as far as possible SI Units are used in the instructions

Date: Jan 2011

Expt Title of the Experiment Page

Where G T = Sp Gravity of distilled water at the room temperature

Typical values of specific gravity of soil particles

SL.No Soil type Value of G

I. Determination of Specific gravity.

W2 = Weight of container + lid + wet soil = _______________

W3 = Weight of container + lid + dry soil = _______________

II. Determination of Water Content.

OBSERVATIONS AND CALCULATIONS:-

Particle size Mass of soil % Mass of Cumulative % % finer

Guidelines for classification of granular soils:

Weight of soil in core cutter

Average Bulk density = ___________

Average Dry density = ____________

2) Dry unit weight = _______________kN/m3

I. Core Cutter Method.

2. Volume of calibrating container = ______________

3. Wt of sand in calibrating container + cone = ________

4. Wt of excavated wet soil = ____________________

5. Wt of container (water content determination) = _______

6. Wt of container + wet soil = _______________________

7. Wt of container +dry soil = ________________________

8. Wt of dry soil, (6) – (7) =__________________________

9. Wt of sand in excavated hole and cone, (W1-W6) = ______

Weight of sand in calibrating container

Weight of sand in excavated soil

Weight of excavated soil

2) Dry unit weight = _______________ kN/m3

II. Sand Replacement Method.

Weight of can + wet

Weight of water (g)

Weight of dry soil(g)

Water content (%)

I. LIQUID LIMIT BY CASAGRANDE’S METHOD

II. LIQUID LIMIT BY CONE PENETRATION METHOD

III. PLASTIC LIMIT

Evaporating dish number 1 2 3

Weight of mercury filling shrinkage dish +weight of

Weight of evaporating dish(g)

Weight of mercury filling evaporating dish(g)

weight of mercury filling

II Water content of wet soil:

Shrinkage dish number 1 2 3

Weight of shrinkage dish (g) Wc

Weight of shrinkage dish + wet soil(g) W1c

Weight of shrinkage dish + dry soil (g) W2c

Weight of dry soil, Wd(g) W2c -Wc

(W1c -Wc)- (W2c -Wc)

III Volume of dry soil:

Evaporating dish number 1 2 3

IV. SHRINKAGE LIMIT

Volumetric shrinkage, V.S. = (w1- ws) x S.R. = =

OBSERVATIONS & TYPICAL CALCULATIONS:-

1g (force) = 9.81 X 10-3 N

1g/cm3 (*density) = 9.81 kN/m3