1

GEOTECHNICAL
ENGINEERING
LABORATORY MANUAL














GEOTECHNCIAL ENGINERRING LABORATORY
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
PONDICHERRY ENGINEERING COLLEGE
PONDICHERRY - 605014
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INDEX
S.No Name of Experiment
1 Visual Soil Identification as per IS Code 3
2 Specific Gravity 10
3 Grain Size Analysis Mechanical Method
Dry Sieve Analysis / Wet Sieve Analysis
12
4 Grain Size Analysis Sedimentation Analysis
Hydrometer Method
14
5 Atterberg Limits: Liquid Limit Test and Plastic Limit Test 18
6 Atterberg Limit: Shrinkage Limit Test & Free Swell Test 24
7 Laboratory Permeability Test: Constant and Variable Head 29
8 Standard Proctor Compaction Test 32
9 Direct Shear Test 36
10 Unconfined Compression Test 39
11 Triaxial Shear test UU Test 41
12 Triaxial Shear test CU Test with PWP measurement
(Demonstration)

13 Consolidation Test (Demonstration)
14 Vane Shear Test (Demonstration)

3
EXPERIMENT 1

FIELD IDENTIFICATION AND CLASSIFICATION PROCEDURE AS PER IS 1498 - 1970

AIM :
1. The field method is used primarily in the field to classify and describe soils.
2. Visual observations are employed in place of precise laboratory tests to define the basic soil
properties. The procedure is, in fact, a process of elimination beginning on the left side of
the classification chart (Table 2) and working to the right until the proper group name is
obtained.
TERMINOLOGY:
As per IS : 2809-1972 Glossary of terms and symbols relating to soil engineering ( first revision ).
1. Clay An aggregate of microscopic and sub-microscopic particles derived from the chemical
decomposition and disintegration of rock constituents. It is plastic within a moderate to wide
range of water content.
2. Silt A fine-grained soil with little or no plasticity. If shaken in the palm of the hand, a part
of saturated inorganic silt expels enough water to make its surface appear glossy. If the pat is
pressed or squeezed between the fingers, its surface again becomes dull.
3. Sand and Gravel Cohesionless aggregates of angular, subangular, sub-rounded, rounded,
flaky or flat fragments of more or less unaltered rocks or minerals.
4. Coarse-Grained Soils In these soils, more than half the total material by weight is larger
than 75-micron IS Sieve size. The coarse-grained soils shall be divided into two subdivisions,
namely:
a) Gravels (G) In these soils, more than half the coarse fraction (+ 75 micron) is larger than
4.75-mm IS Sieve size. This subdivision includes gravels and gravelly soils.
b) Sands (S) In these soils, more than half the coarse fraction (+ 75 micron) is smaller than
4.75-mm IS Sieve size. This subdivision includes sands and sandy soils.
5. Fine-Grained Soils In these soils, more than half of the material by weight is smaller than
75-micron IS Sieve size. The fine-grained soils shall be further divided into three subdivisions
on the basis of the following arbitrarily selected values of liquid limit:
a) Silts and clays of low compressibility (L) having a liquid limit less than 35,
b) Silts and clays of medium compressibility (I) having a liquid limit greater than 35 and
less than 50.
c) Silts and clays of high compressibility (H) having a liquid limit greater than 50.
Note: Soil particles finer than 2-micron may, however, be designated as clay-size particles (C) and
the particles between 75-micron and 2-micron as silt-size particles (M)
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6. Highly Organic Soils and Other Miscellaneous Soil Materials - These soils contain large
percentages of fibrous organic matter, such as peat, and particles of decomposed vegetation.
Nomenclature Symbol Classification Size
Gravel G
Course 75 mm 20mm
Fine 20mm 4.75mm
Sand S
Course 4.75mm 2mm
Medium 2mm - 425
Fine 425 - 75
Silt M High Compressible (H),
Medium Compressible (I) ,
Low Compressible (L)
75 - 2
Clay C > 2

PROCEDURE :
1) A representative sample of the soil is selected which is spread on a flat surface or in the palm of
the hand. All particles larger than 75 mm are removed from the sample. Only the fraction of the
sample smaller than 75 mm is classified. The sample is classified as coarse-grained or fine-grained
by estimating the percentage by weight of individual particles which can be seen by the unaided
eye.
INFERENCE:
Soils containing more than 50 percent visible particles are coarse-grained soils, soils containing
less than 50 percent visible particles are fine-grained soils.
NOTE :
If it has been determined that the soil is coarse grained, it is further identified by estimating and
recording the percentage of:
(a) Gravel sized particle, size range from 75 mm to 4.75-mm IS Sieve size (or approximately 5 mm
size);
(b) Sand size particles, size range from 4.75 to 75-micron IS Sieve size;
(c) Silt and clay size particles, size range smaller than 75-micron IS Sieve.
Descriptive Information for Coarse-Grained Soils
The following descriptive information shall be recorded for coarse-grained soils:
a) Typical name:
b) Maximum size, and fraction larger than 75 mm in the total material;
c) Percentage of gravel, sand and fines in the soil or fraction of soil smaller than 75 mm;
d) Description of average size of sand of gravel;
e) Shape of the particles angular, sub-angular, sub-rounded, rounded;
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f) The surface coatings, cementation and hardness of the particles and possible breakdown,
when compacted;
g) The colour and organic content;
h) Plasticity of fines;
i) Local or geologic name, if known; and
j) Group symbol.
Descriptive Information for Fine Grained Soils
If it has been determined that the soil is fine-graincd, it is further identified by estimating the
percentage of gravel, sand, silt and clay size particles and performing the manual identification
tests for dry strength, dilatancy, and toughness. By comparing the results of these tests with the
requirements given for the nine fine-grained soil groups, the appropriate group name and symbol
is assigned. The same procedure is used to identify the fine-grained fraction of coarse-grained soil
to determine whether they are silty or clayey.
Manual Identification Tests
The following tests for identifying the fine-grained soils shall be performed on the fraction of the
soil finer than the 425-micron IS Sieve:
a) Dilatancy (reaction to shaking)
Take a small representative sample in the form of a soil pat of the size of about 5 cubic centimetres
and add enough water to nearly saturate it. Place the pat in the open palm of one hand and shake
horizontally, striking vigorously against the other hand several times. Squeeze the pat between
the fingers. The appearance and disappearance of the water with shaking and squeezing is
referred to as a reaction. This reaction is called quick, if water appears and disappears rapidly;
slow, if water appears and disappears slowly; and no reaction, if the water condition does not
appear to change. Observe and record type of reaction as descriptive information.
b) Toughness (consistency near plastic limit)
Dry the pat used in the dilatancy test by working and moulding, until it has the consistency of
putty. The time required to dry the pat is the indication of its plasticity. Roll the pat on a smooth
surface or between the palms into a thread about 3 mm in diameter. Fold and re-roll the thread
repeatedly to 3 mm in diameter so that its moisture content is gradually reduced until the 3 mm
thread just crumbles. The moisture content at this time is called the plastic limit and the resistance
to moulding at the plastic limit is called the toughness. After the thread crumbles, lump the pieces
together and continue the slight kneading action until the lump crumbles. If the lump can still be
moulded slightly drier than the plastic limit and if high pressure is required to role the thread
between the palms of the hand, the soil is described as having high toughness. Medium toughness
is indicated by a medium thread and a lump formed of the threads slightly below the plastic limit
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will crumble; while low toughness is indicated by a weak thread that breaks easily and cannot be
lumped together when drier than the plastic limit. Highly organic clays have very weak and
spongy feel at the plastic limit. Non-plastic soils cannot be rolled into thread of 3 mm in diameter
at any moisture content. Observe and record the toughness as descriptive information.
c) Dry strength (crushing resistance)
Completely dry the prepared soil pat. Then measure its resistance to crumbling and powdering
between fingers. This resistance, called dry strength, is a measure of the plasticity of the soil and is
influenced largely by the colloidal fraction content. The dry strength is designated as low, if the
dry pat can be easily powdered; medium, if considerable finger pressure is required and high, if it
cannot be powdered at all. Observe and record the dry strength as descriptive information.
NOTE The presence of high-strength water soluble cementing materials, such as calcium
carbonates or iron oxides may cause high dry strength. Non-plastic soils, such as caliche, coral,
crushed lime stone or soils containing carbonaceous cementing agents may have high dry
strength, but this can be detected by the effervescence caused by the application of diluted
hydrochloric acid.
d) Organic content and colour
Fresh wet organic soils usually have a distinctive odour of decomposed organic matter. This
odour can be made more noticeable by heating the wet sample. Another indication of the organic
matter is the distinctive dark colour. In tropical soils, the dark colour may be or may not be due to
organic matter; when not due to organic matter, it is associated with poor drainage. Dry organic
clays develop an earthy odour upon moistening, which is distinctive from that of decomposed
organic matter.
e) Other identification tests
1) Acid test Acid test using dilute hydrochloric acid (HCl) is primarily a test for the presence of
calcium carbonate. For soils with high dry strength, a strong reaction indicates that the strength
may be due to calcium carbonate as cementing agent rather than colloidal clay. The results of this
test should be
included in the soil description, if pertinent.
2) Shine test This is a quick supplementary procedure for determining the presence of clay. The
test is performed by cutting a lump of dry or slightly moist soil with a knife. The shiny surface
imparted to the soil indicates highly plastic clay, while a dull surface indicates silt or clay of low
plasticity.
3) Miscellaneous test Other criteria undoubtedly may be developed by the individual as he
gains experience in classifying the soils. For example, differentiation between some of the fine-
grained soils depends largely upon the experience in the feel of the soils. Also wet clay sticks to
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the fingers and dries slowly but silt dries fairly quickly and can be dusted off the fingers leaving
only a stain. Frequent checking by laboratory tests is necessary to gain this experience.
Descriptive Information for Fine-Grained Soils
The following descriptive information shall be recorded for fine-grained soils:
a) Typical name;
b) Percentage of gravel, sand and fines;
c) Colour in moist condition and organic content;
d) Plasticity characteristics;
e) Local or geologic name, if known; and
f) Group symbol.
Description of Foundation Soils
The following information shall be recorded to define the in-place condition of soils which are to
be utilized as foundation for hydraulic or other structures:
a) For coarse-grained soils:
1) Natural moisture content (as dry, moist, wet and saturated);
2) Perviousness or drainage properties in the natural condition;
3) Structure (as stratified, uniform, uncemented, lensed; and attitude, that is, strike and dip);
4) Type and degree of cementation; and
5) Degree of compactness (as loose or dense).
b) For fine-grained soils:
1) Natural moisture content (as dry, moist, wet and saturated);
2) Perviousness or drainage properties;
3) Structures (as stratified, homogenous, varved, honeycomb, root-holes, blocky, fissured, lensed;
and attitude, that is, strike and dip). The thickness of lenses, fissures, etc, shall be noted;
4) Type and degree of cementation; and
5) Consistency (very soft, soft, firm, hard, very hard, sticky, brittle, friable and spongy).
NOTE The consistency and the compactness of undisturbed soil should be defined clearly from
the consistency of the soil when disturbed and manipulated. For example, a very thick stratum of
hard, dense shale or pre-consolidated clay of high bearing capacity, not requiring piling, may be
correctly classified as fat clay (CH) of high plasticity. Obviously the classification without
description of undisturbed condition might cause the interpreter to erroneously conclude that it is
soft and plastic in its natural state.
Reference:
IS 1498-1972: Indian Standard Classification and Identification of Soils for general engineering
purposes (First Revision) Reaffirmed 2002 - Edition 2.2, (1987 09)
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9
10
EXPERIMENT - 2
SPECIFIC GRAVITY

Specific Gravity (G) - The ratio of the weight in air of a given volume of soil solids at a stated
temperature to the weight in air of an equal volume of distilled water at that temperature.
AIM :
To determine the specific gravity of both course and fine grained soil
APPARATUS
The following apparatus is required:
1) Specific Gravity Bottle / 100ml Standard flask / Pycnometer
2) A mechanical shaking apparatus capable of rotating the gas jar, end-over-end, at about 50
rev/min;
3) Vacuum pump with Desiccator;
4) A balance readable and accurate to 0-2 g; and
5) A thermometer to cover the temperature range 0C to 50
0
C readable and accurate to 1C.
6) Distilled water / Kerosene
PROCEDURE
A) Course Grained Soil
1. Determine and record the empty weight of dry / 100ml Standard flask
2. Take about 50g of CG soil passing through 4.75mm sieve in the 100ml Standard flask and
record the exact weight
3. Add air free distilled water to the sample to of the bottle and soak for 10min.
4. Apply partial vacuum to the contents for 10 min to remove entrapped air
5. Then carefully fill with water upto the mark and determine the weight. Record it.
6. Empty the contents of the Standard flask, clean with dry cloth and fill water up to the
mark. Clean the flask with dry cloth exterior and determine the weight.
B. Fine Grained soil
1. Determine and record the empty weight of dry / 100ml Standard flask
2. Take about 20 to 30g of FG soil passing through 425micron sieve in the 100ml Standard
flask and record the exact weight
3. Add air free clean kerosene to the sample to of the bottle and soak for 10min.
4. Apply partial vacuum to the contents for 10 min to remove entrapped air
5. Then carefully fill with kerosene upto the mark and determine the weight. Record it.
6. Empty the contents of the Standard flask, clean with dry cloth and fill kerosene up to the
mark. Clean the flask with dry cloth exterior and determine the weight.
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OBSERVATION AND TABULATION

Description
Trial I Trail II Trail III
1 Empty weight of standard flask [W1] g
2 Weight of standard flask + soil [W2] g
3 Weight of standard flask + soil + water/kerosene [W3] g
4 Weight of standard flask + water / kerosene [W4] g
5 Specific Gravity of Kerosene for FG Soil
6
Specific Gravity for CG Soil
( )
2 1
2 1 3 4
( )
( )
s
W W
G
W W W W

=



Specific Gravity for FG Soil
( )
2 1
2 1 3 4
( )
( )
k
s
W W G
G
W W W W

=




RESULT
Specific Gravity of the given Fine grained soil =
Specific Gravity of the given Course grained soil =


REFERENCE
IS: 2720 (Part III/sec 1) 1980 Part III Determination of specific Gravity Section 1 : Fine Grained
Soils
IS: 2720 (Part III/Sec 2) 1980 Part III Determination of specific Gravity Section 2 : Fine, Medium
and Coarse Grained Soils

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EXPERIMENT III
GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS MECHANICAL METHOD
DRY SIEVE ANALYSIS / WET SIEVE ANALYSIS
AIM :
To determine the grain size, plot gradation curve and to classify the soil as per the particle
diameter
Note : Dry sieve analysis is carried out in course grained soils mostly sands where as wet sieve analysis is
carried out in course grained soils with substantial fine grained fraction
APPARATUS:
1. Set of sieves [4.75mm, 2.8mm, 2.00mm, 1.40mm, 1.00mm, 710, 600, 500, 425, 355,
300, 180, 150, 125, 90, 75]
2. Sieve shaker, Balance, Wire brush, lid and pan.
PROCEDURE:
1. Take about 500g of course grained dry soil, find the exact weight of the soil and record it
2. Arrange the sieves in the descending order with the lid and pan
3. Pour the soil in the top sieve and fix it in the sieve shaker and sieve for 30min
4. If not sieve the soil as one or two with lid and pan manually
5. Record the exact weight of soil retained in each sieve and also in the lid in the tabular
column
6. Calculate the % retained and plot a graph between % passing in X-axis and Particle
diameter (mm) in Y-axis (log) in a semi log 3 or 5cycle graph
7. Classify the soil as per IS :1498 1970
OBSERVATIONS AND TABULATION
Weight of soil taken for sieving (W)g =
No
Sieve
Size
Particle dia
(mm)
Weight of
soil
retained (g)
% Soil
retained
Cumulative
% retained
Cumulative
% finer
4.75mm
2.8 mm
2 mm
1 mm
500
425
300
150
75

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CALCULATION:
60
10
u
D
C
D
= =________;
( )
2
30
10 60
c
D
C
D D
= =_________

RESULT
(1) The value of Cu =______ Cc=_______
(2) The soil is classified as per IS: 1498-1970 as _________


REFERENCE
IS :2720 (Part 4) 1985 Part 4 : Grain size analysis
IS :1498 1970 Classification and identification of soils for general purpose


14
EXPERIMENT - 4
GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS SEDIMENTATION ANALYSIS
HYDROMETER METHOD
AIM :
To determine the grain size, plot gradation curve and to classify the soil as per the particle
diameter
APPARATUS:
1. Soil Hydrometer as per IS 3104:1965 Specification for density Hydrometers
2. 1000ml Graduated measuring Jar 2 Nos
3. Porcelain Dish 1
4. Mechanical Stirrer, Weighing Machine
5. 75 sieve, spatula, Glass rod, thermometer, rubber sheet etc.
6. Dispersion agent [ 33g of sodium hexameta phosphate + 7g of sodium carbonate in 1000ml
of distilled water]
PROCEDURE
A] Preparation of Soil Sample
1. Soil fraction passing 75-micron IS Sieve during wet sieving has been collected, this can be
oven-dried and used for Hydrometer analysis. If necessary if the soil contains any soluble
salt more than 1%, the soil need to be pretreated with Hydrogen peroxide. If any calcium
compounds the soil need to be pretreated with HCL.
2. After pre treatment depending on the soil type 25 to 50 g of this soil shall be used for the
analysis.
3. Weigh and record the exact weight of soil taken for the analysis in a china dish
4. To the soil add 25ml of dispersion agent + 100ml of water and soak the soil sample for
about 15 to 30min.
5. Transfer this suspension to the dispersion cup of the stirrer by adding more water no
exceeding 250ml in total
6. Stir the soil suspension for about 15 to 20min

B] Calibration of Hydrometer
1. Sketch the hydrometer on a plain paper and record the distance between the center of the
bulb to the neck of the bulb. Make three to four trials and find the mean (h/2)
2. Measure the distance between the neck each hydrometer graduation and record (H)
3. Calculate the volume of the hydrometer from the mass of the hydrometer or by water
displacement (Vh).
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4. Calculate the cross section area of the measuring jar in
which the soil suspension is kept (Aj).
5. Plot a graph between the hydrometer reading (Rh) and
effective depth (He in cm) where
2 2
h
e
j
V h
H H
A
| |
= +
|
|
\ .
. This
calibration curve will help to calculate the effective depth
for any hydrometer reading.

C] Conduction of Experiment
1. Transfer the suspension to 1000ml measuring flask and
make up the level to 1000ml.
2. Prepare another 1000ml distilled water + 25ml
dispersion agent solution in an another 1000ml
measuring jar so that the composite correction
(Dispersion Agent Correction + Temperature Correction) may be found from taking
another reading form this jar also when ever a reading is taken form the soil suspension
WRT time.
3. Cover the mouth of the mouth of the jar in which the soil suspension is kept with a help of
a rubber sheet tightly and shake the suspension vigorously end over end three or four time.
Allow it to stand and immediately start the stop clock.
4. Immerse the hydrometer gently and allow to float freely. Take reading for , 1, 2 and
4min.
5. Then take out the hydrometer, rinse it and take a reading in the other jar to calculate the
composite correction. Also record the temperature at each time of recoding the hydrometer
reading.
6. Hydrometer Reading to be taken for , 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 25, 36, 49, 60 min, 2h, 4h, 8h, 16h upto
24h.
7. Continue the experiment till the prescribed time interval and duration.
Meniscus correction
The hydrometer shall be inserted in a 1000ml measuring cylinder containing about 700 ml water.
By placing the eye slightly below the plane of the surface of the. liquid, and then raising it slowly
until the surface seen as an ellipse becomes a straight line, the point where the plane intersects the
hydrometer scale shall be determined. By placing the eye slightly above the plane of the surface of
the liquid, the point where the upper limit of the meniscus intersects the -hydrometer scale shall
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be determined. The difference between the two readings shall be recorded as the meniscus
correction Cm. This is a constant for a given hydrometer.

OBSERVATION

1. Weight of soil sample taken for analysis (Wb) gm =
2. Specific Gravity of Soil (G) =
3. Meniscus Correction (x) =
4. Specific Gravity of Water (Gw) (g/cc) =
5. Viscosity of water (poise) at 20
0
= 0.01

FORMULA
30
( )
980( )
100
( )
( 1)
e
w
h
b
H
D mm
G G t
G
W R x
W G

T
o
C (Poise) T
o
C (Poise) T
o
C (Poise)
25 0.00896 28 0.00836 30 0.00800
32 0.00767 34 0.00736 36 0.00706
38 0.00679 40 0.00654

RESULT

1. Plot a Semi-log (5 Cycles) graph between % particle finer (Y-Axis) Vs Paricle Diameter (X-
Axis)
2. Report % Clay (% Particle less than 2 ) and % Silt .

REFERENCE
1. IS :2720 (Part 4) 1985 Indian Standard Methods of Test For Soils Part 4 : Grain size
analysis
2. IS :1498 1970 Indian Standard Classification and identification of soils for general purpose
3. IS : 2720 (Part 3/Sec 1) 1980 Indian Standard Methods of Test For Soils (Reaffirmed 1987)
Part 3 Determination of specific Gravity Section 1 Fine Grained Soils
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TABULATION

Date,
Time &
Elapsed
Time (t)
min
Temperature
T
o
C
Hydrometer
Reading
Rh
Composite
Correction
Cm
Corrected
Hydrometer
Reading
Rh
Effective
Depth
(He)
From
Graph
Coefficient
of Viscosity
of water
() at T
0
C
(poise)
Equivalent
Diameter
D (mm)
%
Particle
finer
than D
(W)












Diameter of Soil Particle ant any Time t (D)
5
10
e
H
M
t

=
% Finer on Wd
100
( ')
( 1)
d
G
N R
W G
=

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EXPERIMENT 5
DETERMINATION OF LIQUID AND PLASTIC LIMIT
Aim:
To Determine the Liquid limit, Plastic limit , Indices and to classify the soil sample
Apparatus:
1. Mechanical Liquid Limit Device (Casagrande Apparatus) It shall conform to IS: 9259- 1979.
2. Grooving Tool (Both A & B) and Gauge Block.
3. Porcelain Evaporating Dish about 12 to 15 cm in diameter.
4. Flat Glass Plate 10 mm thick and about 45 cm square or larger (alternative to porcelain
evaporating dish for mixing soil with water).
5. Spatula flexible, with the blade about 8 cm long and 2 cm wide (for mixing soil and water in
the porcelain evaporating dish).
6. Palette Knifes two, with the blade about 20 cm long and 3 cm wide (for mixing soil and
water on the flat glass Plate).
7. Balance sensitive to 0.01 g.
8. Hot air Oven thermostatically controlled with interior of non-corroding material to maintain
the temperature between 105 and 110C.
9. Wash Bottle, Measuring Jar 10ml & 25ml.
10. Containers air-tight and non-corrodible for determination of moisture content.
11. Equipments to prepare soil sample : Mallet , Tray (30 x 30cm), 425-micron IS Sieve
12. Soil Sample

PROCEDURE
6. Preparation of Soil Sample:
1. Take oven dry soil sample of 500gms. Put the soil in the tray and break it with mallet and
sieve through 425 sieve. Prepare enough quantity of soil sufficient for Liquid limit test ,
plastic limit test, shrinkage limit test and for repeat tests if required.
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2. A sample weighing about 120 g shall be taken from the thoroughly mixed portion of
material passing 425-micron IS Sieve.
7. Adjustment of the Mechanical Device
1. The liquid limit device shall be inspected to determine that it is clean, dry and in good working
order, that the cup falls freely and it does not have too much side play at its hinge. The
grooving tool shall also be inspected to determine that it is clean and dry.
2. Using the gauge on the handle of the grooving tool or a separate gauge and by means of the
adjustment plate of the mechanical liquid limit device, the height through which the cup is
lifted and dropped shall be adjusted so that the point on the cup which comes in contact
8. Test:
1. About 120 g of the soil sample passing 425-micron IS Sieve shall be mixed thoroughly with
distilled water in the evaporating dish or on the flat glass to form a uniform paste. (The paste
shall have a consistency that will require 30 to 35 drops of the cup to cause the required closure
of the standard groove).
Note: In the case of clayey soils, the soil paste shall be left to stand for a sufficient time (24
hours) so as to ensure uniform distribution of moisture throughout the soil mass.
2. A portion of the paste shall be placed in the cup above the spot where the cup rests on the
base, squeezed down and spread into position, with as few strokes of the spatula as possible
and at the same time trimmed to a depth of one entimeter at the point of maximum
thickness, returning the excess soil to the dish.
3. The soil in the cup shall be decided by firm strokes of the grooving tool along the diameter
through the centre line of the cam follower so that a clean, sharp groove of the proper
dimensions is formed.
Note: In case where grooving tool, Type A does not give a clear groove as in sandy soils,
grooving tool Type B or Type C should be used.
4. The cup shall be dropped by turning the crank at the rate of two
revolutions per second until the two halves of the soil cake come in
contact with bottom of the groove along a distance of about 12 mm.
This length shall be measured with the end of the grooving tool or a
ruler.
5. The number of drops required to cause the groove close for the length
of 12 mm shall be recorded.
6. A representative slice of soil approximately the width of the spatula, extending from about
edge to edge of the soil cake at right angle to the groove and including that portion of the
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groove in which the soil flowed together shall be taken in a suitable container and determine
its moisture content as described in IS : 2720 (Part 2)-1973.
7. The remaining soil in the cup shall be transferred to the evaporating dish and the cup and the
grooving tool cleaned thoroughly.
8. Remix the soil with more water and repeat as per steps 2, 3, 4. For at least three more
additional trials (minimum of four in all)
Note:
9. In no case shall dried soil be added to the thoroughly mixed soil that is being tested.
10. In each case, the number of blows shall be recorded and the moisture content determined as
before. The specimens shall be of such consistency that the number of drops required to close
the groove shall be not less than 15 or more than 35 and the points on the flow curve are
evenly distributed in this range.
11. The test should proceed from the drier (more drops) to the wetter (less drops) condition of the
soil.
9. Determination of Liquid Limit and Flow Index
Liquid Limit (wL)
1. A flow curve shall be plotted on semi-logarithmic graph (1-Cycle) representing water content
on the arithmetical scale (x-Axis) and the number of drops (Blows) on the logarithmic scale (Y-
Axis). The flow curve is a straight line drawn as nearly as possible through the four or more
plotted points.
2. The moisture content corresponding to 25 drops as read from the curve shall be rounded off to
the nearest whole number and reported as the liquid limit of the soil.
Flow Index (If )
1. The flow curve (straight line) plotted on semi-logarithmic graph shall be extended at either
end so as to intersect the ordinates corresponding to 10 and 100 drops.
2. The slope of this line expressed as the difference in water contents at 10 drops and at 100
drops shall be reported as the flow index.
3. The flow index may be calculated from the following equation also:
1 2
2
10
1
log
f
w w
I
N
N

=
| |
|
\ .

TEST FOR THE DETERMINATION OF PLASTIC LIMIT
Procedure:
1. The soil sample shall be mixed thoroughly with distilled water in an evaporating dish or on
the flat glass plate till the soil mass becomes plastic enough to be easily moulded with fingers.
Note: In the case of clayey soils, the plastic soil mass shall be left to stand for a sufficient time
(24 hours) to ensure uniform distribution of moisture throughout the soil.
21
2. A ball shall be formed with about 8 g of this plastic soil mass and rolled between the fingers
and the glass plate with just sufficient pressure to roll the mass into a thread of uniform
diameter throughout its length.
3. The rate of rolling shall be between 80 and 90 strokes / min counting a stroke as one complete
motion of the hand forward and back to the starting position again.
4. The rolling shall be done till the threads are of 3 mm diameter. The soil shall then be kneaded
together to a uniform mass and rolled again. This process of alternate rolling and kneading
shall be continued until the thread crumbles under the pressure required for rolling and the
soil can no longer be rolled into a thread.
5. The crumbling may occur when the thread has a diameter greater than 3 mm. This shall be
considered a satisfactory end point, provided the soil has been rolled into a thread 3 mm in
diameter immediately before.
Note : At no time shall an attempt be made to produce failure at exactly 3 mmm diameter by
allowing the thread to reach 3 mm then reducing the rate of rolling or pressure or both and
continuing the rolling without further deformation until the thread fails apart.
6. The pieces of crumbled soil thread shall be collected in an air-tight container and the moisture
content determined as described in IS : 2720 (Part 2)-1973.
Result
Plastic Limit:
1. The observations of the test should be recorded suitably. A recommended proforma for the
record of results is given below.
2. The moisture content determined is the plastic limit of the soil. The plastic limit shall be
determined for at least three portions of the soil passing 425-micron IS Sieve.
3. The average of the results calculated to the nearest whole number shall be reported as the
plastic limit of the soil.
Plasticity Index (Ip) :
The plasticity index is calculated as the difference between its liquid limit and plastic limit:
Plasticity index (Ip) = liquid limit (wL) plastic limit (wp).
In the case of sandy soils, plastic limit should be determined first. When plastic limit cannot be
determined, the plasticity index should be reported as NP (non-plastic).
When the plastic limit is equal to or greater than the liquid limit, the plasticity index shall be
reported as zero.
Toughness Index (IT) :
The toughness index shall be calculated as follows:
Toughness index (IT) = Ip / If where Ip = plasticity index and If = flow index.
22
Liquidity Index (IL) :
The liquidity index shall be calculated as follows:
n P
L
P
w w
I
I

= where wn = Natural Water

Content
Consistency Index (IC):
Consistency Index shall be calculated as follows :
L n
c
P
w w
I
I

=
OBSERVATIONS & TABULATION
Details of Soil Sample:
Weight of Soil Sample taken for Liquid Limit Test:
Weight of Soil Sample taken for Plastic Limit Test:
To Determine Natural Water Content (If the given Soil sample is wet):
Description Trial I Trail II Trail III
Identification of Container
Empty Weight of Container (W1)
Weight of Container + Wet Soil (W2)
Weight of Container + Dry Soil (W3)
Water Content %
2 3
2 1
( )
100
( )
W W
W W

Average Natural Water Content %

To Determine Liquid Limit
Description
Trial I Trail II Trail III Trail IV Trail V Trail VI
Range of Blows 70 - 60 60 - 50 50 - 40 40 - 30 30 - 20 20 - 10
App. amount of water added (ml)
Approximate Water Content
Number of Blows
Container No
Empty Weight of Container (W1)
Weight of Container + Wet Soil (W2)
Weight of Container + Dry Soil (W3)
Water Content %
2 3
2 1
( )
100
( )
W W
W W

23
To Determine Plastic Limit
Description Trial I Trail II Trail III
Identification of Container
Empty Weight of Container (W1)
Weight of Container + Wet Soil (W2)
Weight of Container + Dry Soil (W3)
Water Content %
2 3
2 1
( )
100
( )
W W
W W

Average Water Content %


RESULT:
1. Liquid Limit (wL) % =
2. Plastic Limit (wp) % =
3. Plasticity Index (Ip) =
4. Flow Index (If) =
5. Toughness Index (IT) =
6. Natural Water Content (wn) % =
7. Liquidity Index (IL) % =
8. Consistency Index (Ic) =
9. Classification of Soil as per IS : 1498 1970
(Reaffirmed 1987)


REFERENCE
1. IS : 2720 (Part 5) 1985 Indian Standard Methods of Test For Soils. Part 5 Determination of
Liquid Limit and Plastic Limit.
2. IS :9259 1979 (Reaffirmed 1987) Indian Standard Specification for Liquid limit Apparatus
For Soils.
3. IS :1498 1970 Classification and identification of soils for general purpose
4. IS : 2720 (Part 2) 1973 Indian Standard Methods of Test For Soils Part 2 Determination of
Water Content (Second Revision)




24
EXPERIMENT VI
A) DETERMINATION OF SHRINKAGE LIMIT

AIM: To determine the Shrinkage limit, degree of shrinkage and indices.
PROCEDURE
a) Preparation of Soil Paste-
1. Place about 30 g of the soil sample passing through 425 sieve in the evaporating dish
2. Thoroughly mix the soil with distilled water in an amount sufficient to fill the soil voids
completely and to make the soil pasty enough to be readily worked into the shrinkage dish
without entrapping air bubbles.
3. Weight and Volume of the Shrinkage Dish- Determine the weight of the clean empty
shrinkage dish and record.
4. Determine the capacity of the shrinkage dish in cubic centimetres, which is also the volume
of the wet soil pat, by filling the shrinkage dish to overflowing with mercury, removing the
excess by pressing the plain glass plate firmly over the top of the shrinkage dish in such a
way that the plate is flush with the top of the dish and no air is entrapped, weighing the
mercury held in the shrinkage dish to an accuracy of 0.1 g and dividing this weight by the
unit weight of mercury to obtain the volume.
5. Record this volume as the volume of the wet soil pat ( Vo)
B) Filling the Shrinkage Dish
6. Coat the inside of the shrinkage dish with a thin layer of silicone grease or Vaseline or some
other heavy grease to prevent the adhesion of soil to the dish.
7. Place in the centre of the shrinkage dish an amount of the soil paste equal to about one-
third the volume of the shrinkage dish, and allow the paste to flow to the edges by tapping
the shrinkage dish on a firm surface cushioned by several layers of blotting paper, rubber
sheet or similar material.
8. Add an amount of the soil paste approximately equal to the first portion, and tap the
shrinkage dish as before until the paste is thoroughly compacted and all included air has
been brought to the surface.
9. Add more soil paste and continue the tapping until the shrinkage dish is completely filled
and excess soil paste stands out about its edge. Then strike off the excess soil paste with a
straight edge, and wipe off all soil adhering to the outside of the shrinkage dish.
10. Weigh immediately the shrinkage dish + wet soil and record the weight.
25
11. Allow the soil pat to dry in air until the colour of the pat turns from dark to light. Then
oven-dry the pat in the shrinkage dish for 24 hours, cool in a desiccator and weigh
immediately after removal from the desiccator.
12. Record the weight as the weight of shrinkage dish and dry soil.
C) Volume of the Dry Soil Pat
13. Determine the volume of the dry soil pat by removing the pat from the shrinkage dish and
immersing it in the glass cup full of mercury.
14. Fill the glass cup to overflowing with mercury and remove the excess mercury by pressing
the glass plate with the three prongs (see Fjg. 1 ) firmly over the top of the cup, collecting
the excess mercury in a suitable container. Carefully wipe off any mercury which may be
adhering to the outside of the cup.
15. Place the cup, filled thus with mercury, in the evaporating dish taking care not to spill any
mercury from the glass cup, and place the oven-dried soil pat on the surface of the mercury
in the cup.
16. Then carefully force the pat under the mercury by means of the glass plate with the same
prongs (see Fig. 1) and press the plate firmly over the top of the cup, the displaced mercury
being collected in the evaporating dish without spilling out of it. Care shall be taken to
ensure that no air is trapped under the soil pat.
17. Weigh the mercury so displaced by the dry soil pat to an accuracy of 0.1 g and determine
its volume by dividing this weight by the unit weight of mercury. Record this volume as
the volume of the oven-dry soil pat, Vd.

Formulas:

( ) *100
( )
( ) ( )
1
( ) *100
o d
s
d
d
d w
s
d
d
V V
Shrinkage Limit w w
W
W
Shrinkage Ratio SR
V
Volumetric Shrinkage VS w w SR
V
Shrikage Limit UDS
W G

(
=
(

=
=
| |
=
|
\ .








TABULATION OF OBSERVATION:
o
d
Wt. Of mercury filling shrinkage limit
Volume of Wet Soil Pat (V ) =
Sp. Gr. of Mercury (13.6)
Wt. Of mercury displaced by the dry soil pat
Volume of Dry Soil Pat (V )=
Sp. Gr. of Mercury (13.6)
Shrinkage Li
( )
( )
1
1
100
o d w
s
d
d
d w
s
V V
mit w w
W
W
Shrikage Ratio SR
V
Volumetric Shrikage VS w w SR

(
=
(

=
=
26
No Observations Trial I Trial II
1. Shrinkage Dish Number
2 Empty Weight of Shrinkage Dish (gm)
3. Weight of Shrinkage Dish + Wet soil (gm)
4 Weight of Shrinkage Dish + Dry Soil (gm)
5 Weight of Dry Soil Pat (W
d
)
6 Water Content of Soil Pat (w
1
)
7 Weight of container / Evaporating Dish
8 Weight of container + Mercury filling the
shrinkage Dish

9 Weight of Mercury Filling the Shrinkage
dish only.

10 Volume of Wet Soil pad (v)= (9) / 13.6
11 Weight of container / Evaporating Dish
12 Weight of container + Mercury replaced by
the dry soil pad

13 Weight of Mercury replaced by the soil pad
only

14 Volume of dry Soil pad (V
d
) = (13) / 13.6
15 Shrinkage Limit (w
s
)


REFERENCE : IS : 2720 (Part 6) 1972 Indian Standard Methods of Test For Soils Part 6
Determination of Shrinkage Factors.

27




28
EXPERIMENT VI
B) DETERMINATION OF FREE SWELL INDEX
Aim
To determine free swell index of soil which helps to identify the potential of a soil to swell which
might need further detailed investigation regarding swelling and swelling pressures under
different field conditions.
Apparatus:
1. Sieve - 425-micron IS Sieve.
2. Glass Graduated Cylinders - Two, l00ml capacity (IS : 878- 1956. ).
Procedure:
1. Take two 10g soil specimens of oven dry soil passing through 425-micron IS Sieve.
a. NOTE - In the case of highly swelling soils, such as sodium bentonites, the sample size may be 5
g or alternatively a cylinder of 250 ml capacity may be used.
2. Each soil specimen shall be poured in each of the two glass graduated cylinders of 100 ml
capacity. One cylinder shall then be filled with kerosene oil and the other with distilled writer
up to the 100 ml mark.
3. After removal of entrapped air (by gentle shaking or stirring with a glass rod ), the soils in
both the cylinders shall be allowed to settle.
4. Sufficient time (not less than 24 h) shall be allowed for the soil sample to attain equilibrium
state of volume without any further change in the volume of the soils.
5. The final volume of soils in each of the cylinders shall be read out.
Calculation
The level of the soil in the kerosene graduated cylinder shall be read as the original volume of
the soil samples, kerosene being a non-polar liquid do not cause swelling of the soil. The level
of the soil in the distilled water cylinder shall be read as the free swell level. The free swell
index of the soil shall be calculated as follows:

Where Vd = the volume of soil specimen read from the graduated cylinder containing distilled
water, and Vk = the volume of soil specimen read from the graduated cylinder containing
kerosene.

Reference :
IS : 2720 (Part 40) 1972 : Indian Standard Methods of Test For Soils Part 40 Determination of
Free Swell Index of Soils.
29
EXPERIMENT- VII
PERMEABILITY OR HYDRAULIC CONDUCTIVITY
Purpose:
The purpose of this test is to determine the permeability (hydraulic conductivity) of a sandy soil
by the constant head test method. There are two general types of permeability test methods that
are routinely performed in the laboratory: (1) the constant head test method, and (2) the falling
head test method. The constant head test method is used for permeable soils (k>10-4 cm/s) and
the falling head test is mainly used for less permeable soils (k<10-4 cm/s).
Significance:
Permeability (or hydraulic conductivity) refers to the ease with which water can flow through
a soil. This property is necessary for the calculation of seepage through earth dams or under
sheet pile walls, the calculation of the seepage rate from waste storage facilities (landfills,
ponds, etc.), and the calculation of the rate of settlement of clayey soil deposits.
The knowledge of the permeability is essential in the solution of many engineering problems
involving flow of water through soils such as: Dewatering and drainage of excavations, back
fills and subgrades; Determining yield of water bearing strata; Assessing seepage through the
body of earth dams; and Computing losses from canals.
In addition since the soil may be used to inhibit flow of water, the permeability of soil governs
the type of soil to be used.
Apparatus
1) The mould assembly (including drainage base and drainage cap) shall conform to IS: 11209-
1985.
2) The compaction rammer shall conform to IS: 9198-1979
(or) wooden rammer.
3) Set of Stand Pipes - Glass stand pipes for falling head
(variable head) test arrangement, varying in diameter
from 5 to 20 mm, suitably mounted on stand or otherwise
fixed on wall.
4) Constant Head Tank - A suitable water reservoir capable or supplying water to the
permeameter under constant head for constant head test arrangement.
5) Beaker-500ml, Measuring Jar (500ml, 250ml, 100ml), Measuring Scale: 1m, 30cm, Stop
Watch, Tray & Trowel.
Preparation of Soil Sample:
1. Measure the dimension of the permeameter mould and calculate the Volume of the mould.
30
2. Weigh and take soil sample for the given unit weight or void ratio to which the soil
sample need to be prepared.
3. Wet the bottom porous stone and slide it into the base plate. Place a filter paper above the
prous stone. Fix the mould to the base plate using bolts.
4. Fill the soil in three or more layer in to the mould.
5. Place the top porous stone on the top cover of the permeameter and fix it tightly so that
there is no leakage.
6. Connect the permeability mould to the stand pipe filled with water. Open the air screw on
the lid and remove all the entrapped air.
7. After the flow has become steady, start taking reading.
A. Constant Head Method
1. For a constant head test arrangement, the specimen shall be connected through the top inlet to
the constant head water reservoir.
2. Measure the hydraulic head i.e. from the top of the water level in the stand pipe to the water
outlet in the permeameter.
3. The bottom outlet shall be opened and when the steady state of flow has been established, the
quantity of flow for a convenient time interval shall be collected and measured.
4. The collection of the quantity of flow for the same time interval shall be repeated thrice.
OBSERAVTIONS:
1. Height of Mould / Length of Sample = 2. Diameter of Sample=
3. CS Area of Sample = 4. Volume of Sample =
5. Weight of Soil Taken = 6. Unit Weight of Sample=
7. Specific Gravity of Soil = 8. Void Ratio of Sample =
9. Hydraulic Head =

Trial
Time (t)
(Sec)
Quantity of Water Collected (Q) (ml) Coefficient of Permeability
(K) cm/sec
thA
QL
K =
Trial I Trial II Trial III Average
1
2
3, 4, 5
Average K

31

B. Variable Head Method
1. For a falling head test arrangement the permeameter shall be connected to the stand-pipe.
2. Fill the stand pipe with water and the bottom outlet of the permeameter be opened
3. Tabulate the time interval required for the water level to fall from a known initial head to a
known final head
4. The stand-pipe shall be refilled with water and the test repeated till three successive
observations give nearly same time interval.


Initial
Head (h1)
cm
Final
Head (h2)
cm
Time taken for fall
in head (t) (sec)
Coefficient of Permeability
(K) cm/sec
2
1
log 3 . 2
h
h
tA
aL
K =
Trail I
Diameter of the
Stand Pipe (d) =




Trail II
Diameter of the
Stand Pipe (d) =



Average K

32
EXPERIMENT VIII
STANDARD PROCTOR COMPACTION TEST
[OR]
DETERMINATION OF WATER CONTENT-DRY DENSITY RELATION USING LIGHT
COMPACTION
AIM :
1. To determine the water content Dry Density relation using Light Compaction.
2. To determine the Optimum Water content and Maximum Dry Density of the given soil
sample.
APPARATUS:
1. Standard Proctor Compaction mould 1000cc capacity as per IS 10074-1982.
2. Light Compaction Rammer (2.6kg with height of fall 31cm)
3. Metallic Try 2 Nos (Big -1 & Small 1 No)
4. 4.75 mm IS Sieve 1 No
5. Mixing Tools T ray 2 Nos , Trowel 2 Nos to mixing the soil sample with additions of
water
6. Measuring Jar 25ml / 10ml ; Scale 30cm long ; Oil can ; Cotton Waste.
7. Container 5 Nos to determine the water content for tests conducted in the laboratory.
8. Steel Straightedge / Knife To level the soil sutface.
9. Sample Extruder (Optional) to extrude compacted specimens from the mould.
10. Weighing Balances one, of capacity 10 kg sensitive to 1 g and other of capacity 200 g
sensitive to 0.01 g.
11. Hot Air Oven.
PROCEDURE
1. A representative portion of air dried soil material approximately 2.5kg to 3kg passing
through 4.75mm sieve is prepared.
2. Find the empty weight of Proctor Mould without the collar and base plate. Also measure
the dimensions of the mould and record it.
3. Add 4 to 8% (Ref Notes) of water to the soil by weight and mix the soil thoroughly.
4. After confirming that the moisture is uniform divide the soil into 3 parts.
5. Fix the mould to the base plate and slightly spread oil inside the mould and base plate. This
will help to extract the soil easily put of mould.
6. Transfer the first part of wet soil into the mould and
33
7. Compact the soil by applying 25 blows uniformly throughout the surface of soil inside
the mould.
8. After scratching the surface of the I layer of soil, fix the collar on the mould and transfer II
part of wet soil to the mould and repeat step no (7).
9. Again as a III Stage repeat step Nos (7) & (8)
10. Remove the collar and cut of the excess soil on the mould and level the surface.
11. Then remove the base plate and find the weight of mould + wet soil.
12. Extract the soil out of mould using vertical soil extractor and collect a descriptive soil
sample for calculating the water content by oven drying method.
13. Break the soil sample and add next additional increment of water so that the water content
of the soil is increased additionally by 2% (Ref: Notes).
14. Repeat the procedure, conduct minimum of 5 trials, with 3 minimum of trials in dry side of
the proctor curve (increasing d value) and 2 number of trials in wet side (decreasing d
value).
15. Record all the observation as mentioned in the data sheet.
16. Calculate the dry density and actual water. Plot a graph between Water content in X-Axis
and Dry density in Y-Axis.
17. From the graph report the Maximum dry density and Optimum Water content.
18. Also plat a Zero Air Void Plot for 100% saturation in the same graph.
NOTE:
i) The amount of water to be mixed with air dried soil at the commencement of the test will
vary with the type of soil under test. In general, with sandy and gravelly soils a moisture
content of 4% to 6% would be suitable, while with cohesive soils a moisture content about
8% to 10% below the plastic limit of the soil (plastic limit minus 10 to plastic limit minus 8)
usually be suitable.
ii) It is important that the water is mixed thoroughly and adequately with the soil, since
inadequate mixing gives rise to variable test results. This is particularly important with
cohesive soils when adding a substantial quantity of water to the air dried soil.
iii) With clays of high plasticity, or where hand mixing is employed, it may be difficult to
distribute the water uniformly through the air dried soil by mixing alone, and it may be
necessary to store the mixed sample in a sealed container for a minimum period of about 16
hours before continuing with the test. The water added for each stage of the test should be
such that a range of moisture contents is obtained which includes the optimum moisture.
34
iv) In general, increments of 1% to 2% are suitable for sandy and gravelly soils and of 2% to
4% for cohesive soils. To increase the accuracy of the test it is often advisable to reduce the
increments of water in the region of the optimum moisture content

DATA SHEET
OBSERVATION
1. Empty Weight of Mould = 3. Weight of Soil Taken (gm) =
2. Dimensions of Mould
Diameter (cm)
Height (cm)

=
=
4. Initial Water content selected %
5. Quantity of water (cc)
=
=
Volume of Mould (cc) = Sp. Gr. of Soil =
TABULATION:
Trail
Approximate
Water Content
(%)
Quantity of
Water (cc)
Weight of
Mould + Wet
Soil (gm)
Weight of
wet Soil
(gm)
Bulk Unit
Weight
(kN/m
3
)
Actual
Water
Content (%)
Dry Unit Weight
(kN/m
3
)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
To Determine Actual Water Content:
Description Trial 1 Trail 2 Trail 3 Trial 4 Trail 5
Identification of Container
Empty Weight of Container (W1)
Weight of Container + Wet Soil (W2)
Weight of Container + Dry Soil (W3)
Water Content %
2 3
2 1
( )
100
( )
W W
W W

FORMULA:



RESULT:
i) The Maximum Dry Density of the given Soil Sample (kN/m
3
) =
ii) The Optimum Moisture Content (%) =
REFERENCE :
( )
1
1
1
d
a w
d
r
w
n G
wG
S

=
+

=
+
35
1. IS : 2720 (Part VII) 1980 (Reaffirmed 2002) Indian Standard Methods for Soils Part VII
Determination of water content Dry Density relation using Light Compaction. (Second
Revision)















36
EXPERIMENT 9
DIRECT SHEAR TEST
AIM:
To determine shear strength of soil with a maximum particle size of 4.75 mm in undrained,
consolidated undrained
APPARATUS:
1. The shear box (2 halves), base plate, grid plates, porous stones and loading pad with steel
ball, 2 Nos of alignment screws.
2. Proving Ring 2 kN capacity.
3. Tools to prepare soil sample (Weighing Machine, Tray , Wooden Mallet, 30cm Scale,
Trowel)
4. Stop watch (or) Dial Gauge (LC=0.01mm) to determine strain.
5. Loading Frame with weights to apply Normal Stress.
PROCEDURE
1. Measure the dimensions of the shear box. The soil can be filled up to a maximum height of 1
cm from the top. Calculate the volume of box.
2. Record the init weight of the soil sample to which the test need to be conducted.
3. Calculate the weight of soil required to fill the shear box for the required density. Weigh the
soil and keep it ready in a tray.
4. Assemble the shear box.
Keep the two haves one over another
keep the base plate in position,
Place grid plate such that serrations of the grid plates should be at right angles to the
direction of shear
Push the alignment screws in the respective holes of the shear box assembly so that the
shear box assembly do not get distorted while handling and gap screw in position
5. Fill the soil into the shear box in layers (3 -4 layers) compacted using a wooden rammer.
6. After filling the entire amount of soil to the required height of shear box slide the top grid plate
with serration down, perpendicular to the direction of shear.
7. Place the loading pad on the top
8. Transfer shear box to the shear load frame (by holding the handle fixed to the base of the shear
box assembly) so that handle of the shear box (top part) to bear against the proving ring.
9. Adjust the loading screw so that the shear box top touches the proving ring and then slide the
lock in the loading screw.
37
10. Keep the loading yoke on the top of the loading pad on the ball. Check if the horizontal arm
of the loading yoke is horizontal. If not adjust the counter weight of the loading yoke.
11. Adjust proving ring reading to zero, pull out the large alignment screws from the shear box
12. Set the vertical load to a predetermined value by sliding the slotted weight in the loading
hanger of loading yoke (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2,2.5kg/cm
2
)
13. Apply the horizontal shear load at a constant rate of strain and strain of laoding is calculated
by the time duration.
14. Note the proving ring reading for every 30 sec.
15. The test is continued to a maximum of 20% strain or till the soil sample fails. The soil failure is
indicated by return of load reading in proving ring.
16. Record also the maximum proving reading and calculate the maximum shear stress
17. Remove the load on the soil sample both shear and vertical load, take out the shear box
carefully without spillage of soil sample.
18. Re assemble the shear box and Repeat the test for next increment of normal stress.
19. Plot a stress strain plot for each normal loading.
20. Plot the value of the maximum shear stress (Y axis) versus the corresponding vertical stress (x-
axis) for each test, and determine the angle of internal friction (|) from the slope of the
approximated Mohr-Coulomb failure envelope.
OBSERVATION:
Dimensions of Shear Box (L) cm
(B) cm
(H) cm
=
=
=
Bulk Unit Weight of Sample (kN/m
3
)
Weight of soil sample tested (gm)
=
=
Volume of Shear Box (cc) = Area of the Shear Box (Ao) (cm
2
)
Proving Ring Constant = Strain Rate of Test =

Check if the large alignment screws are pulled out from the shear box
TABULATION:
Trial I : Vertical Stress (kPa) =
Time
Lapsed
Proving Ring
reading
Displacement
(o) (cm)
Corrected Area 1
3
c o
A A
o | |
=
|
\ .

Shear
Load (N)
Shear Stress
(kPa)

Trial II : Vertical Stress (kPa) =
Time
Lapsed
Proving Ring
reading
Displacement
(o) (cm)
Corrected Area 1
3
c o
A A
o | |
=
|
\ .

Shear
Load (N)
Shear Stress
(kPa)

38
Summary of Results:
Trail Normal Stress
Applied (kPa)
Shear Stress @ Failure
(kPa)
Shear strength
parameters
I
C =
| =
II
III
IV
V

REFERENCE:
IS:2720 (Part13)-1986 ( Second Revision ), Indian Standard: Methods of testing for Soils: Part 13:
Direct Shear Test


39
EXPERIMENT X
UNCONFINED COMPRESSION TEST (UCC-TEST)
Aim :
To determine the unconfined compressive strength of clayey soil ( undisturbed / remoulded /
compacted) using controlled rate of strain.
Apparatus:
1. Soil Sample in 38mm Shelby tube 2. Split Mould with screws
3. Wire cut saw / Knife 4. Weighing Machine
5. Proving Ring (2kN) 6. Dial Gauge (L.C = 0.01mm)
7. Containers 8. Loading Frame
9. Spanner, Scale 30cm. 10. Sample extractor.

Test Procedure:
A) Preparation of Soil Specimen
1. Remoulded soil sample may be prepared by compacting the soil at the desired water
content and dry unit weight in a bigger 1500cc CBR mould and then cut by the 38mm thin
walled Shelby tube.
2. To extract the soil sample out of the Shelby tube, fix the tube horizontally in the horizontal
soil extractor. In the open end fix the assembled split mould.
3. Slowly rotate the plunger into the tube so that the sample will be pushed in the split mould.
After the sample of required length is pushed into the split mould, remove the split mould
after cutting the sample with the help of wire cur saw and unscrewing the mould from the
extractor.
4. Trim the soil sample to the exact diameter and length of split mould. Collect a descriptive
soil sample to determine the water content by oven drying method.
5. Un screw the split mould, carefully the soil specimen and measure the dimension of the
sample. Also weigh the soil sample to determine the bulk unit weight of the sample.
B) UCC Test
1. Transfer the soil sample to the centre of the bottom base plate of the loading device.
2. Fix the proving ring with the top loading plate on the loading frame.
3. Through a ball and socket system the load is transferred to the sample to avoid eccentric
loading.
4. Adjust the upper plate to make the top plate contact with the soil specimen.
5. Fix the dial gauge resting on the lower plate to determine the stain of loading.
6. Set the gear to the position such that the rate of loading is 1.25mm/min.
40
7. Switch on the machine so that the soil sample is compressed uniformly. While loading
note the Proving ring reading for every 0.25% strain in dial gauge till the soil sample fails
or to a maximum stain of 20%.
8. After the completion of the test, remover the soil sample from the loading frame and sketch
the failure pattern.
9. Calculate the stress and strain. Plot a graph between stain in X-Axis and Stress in Y-Axis.
10. From the graph calculate the UnConfined Compressive Strength of the given soil sample.
OBSERVATIONS :
1. Dimensions of the soil sample
L (cm)
D (cm)

=
=
2. Weight of Soil Sample (gm)


=

=
3. CS Area of the Soil Sample (cm
2
) = 4. Volume of Soil Sample (cc) =
5. Proving Ring Constant = 6. Bulk Unit Weight of Soil
sample
=
7. Water content of the sample =

Tabulation:
Dial Gauge
Reading
(div)
Proving Ring
Reading
(div)
Strain (c) %
Corrected Area
(cm
2
)
AC = Ao / (1-c)
Load
(KN)
Stress
(kPa)
0.25 %
0.50 %
0.75 %
1.00 %
.
.
.
20%

RESULTS
1. Failure angle from the Soil Sample (o) =
2. Angle of Internal Friction (|) =
3. Un Confined Compressive Strength (kPa) =
4. Undrained Cohesion C (kPa) =
5. Strain at failure (%) =
REFERENCE:
IS:2720 (Part10)-1991 ( Second Revision ), Indian Standard: Methods of testing for Soils: Part 10:
Determination of Un Confined Compressive Strength.
41
EXPERIMENT XI
TRIAXIAL SHEAR TEST (UU - TEST)

AIM:
Determination of the compressive strength of a specimen of saturated cohesive soil in the triaxial
compression apparatus under conditions in which the cell pressure is maintained constant and
there is no change in the total water content of the specimen.
APPARATUS:
1. Soil Sample in 38mm Shelby tube 2. Split Mould with screws
3. Wire cut saw / Knife 4. Weighing Machine
5. Proving Ring (2kN) 6. Dial Gauge (L.C = 0.01mm)
7. Containers 8. Loading Frame
9. Spanner, Scale 30cm. 10. Sample extractor.
11. Triaxial Cell 12. Cell pressure applying device
13. Membrane Stretcher. 14. Rubber membrane, O- Rings, Loading Pad, etc.

PROCEDURE:
A) Preparation of Soil Specimen
1. Remoulded soil sample may be prepared by compacting the soil at the desired water
content and dry unit weight in a bigger 1500cc CBR mould and then cut by the 38mm thin
walled Shelby tube.
2. To extract the soil sample out of the Shelby tube, fix the tube horizontally in the horizontal
soil extractor. In the open end fix the assembled split mould.
3. Slowly rotate the plunger into the tube so that the sample will be pushed in the split mould.
After the sample of required length is pushed into the split mould, remove the split mould
after cutting the sample with the help of wire cur saw and unscrewing the mould from the
extractor.
4. Trim the soil sample to the exact diameter and length of split mould. Collect a descriptive
soil sample to determine the water content by oven drying method.
5. Un screw the split mould, carefully the soil specimen and measure the dimension of the
sample. Also weigh the soil sample to determine the bulk unit weight of the sample.
B) Triaxial Test
1. Stretch the rubber membrane in the membrane stretcher after sliding the O rings in the top
and bottom of the membrane stretcher.
42
2. Sucking the air in the membrane stretcher, push the soil sample into the stretched
membrane.
3. Slide the loading plate in to the top of the soil sample. Transfer the soil sample with the
rubber membrane to the pedestal at the base of the triaxial cell. Then slide the O ring to the
base pedestal and top loading pad and remove the membrane stretcher.
4. Fix the proving ring with the top loading plate on the loading frame.
5. Close the soil sample with the top Perspex cover and fix it tightly with the screws.
6. Transfer the triaxial cell to the loading frame.
7. Make the loading rod of the triaxial cell resting on the loading pad of the sample centrally.
Through a ball and socket system the load is transferred between the loading rod and
proving ring to avoid eccentric loading.
8. Connect the water pressure line to the triaxial cell bottom and fill the triaxial cell opening
the valve and air release valve on the top of the Perspex cover.
9. After filling the triaxial cell with water, close the air release valve and apply the required
confining pressure (o3). (100 / 200 / 300kPa)
10. Fix the dial gauge resting on the lower plate to determine the stain of loading.
11. Set the gear to the position such that the rate of loading is _________mm/min.
12. Switch on the machine so that the deviator stress is applied uniformly on the soil sample
uniformly. While loading note the Proving ring reading for every 0.25% strain in dial gauge
till the soil sample fails or to a maximum stain of 20%.
13. After the completion of the test, remover the soil sample from the loading frame and
observe the failure pattern.
14. Calculate the stress and strain. Plot a graph between stain in X-Axis and Stress in Y-Axis.
15. Repeat the procedure with 2 more specimen with different cell pressures.
16. From the Stress Strain graph calculate the maximum deviator stress at failure for the
given soil sample at a particular cell pressure.
17. Then plot the Mohr-Coulomb envelop to determine the shear strength parameters
Cohesion (C) and Angle of internal friction (|)
OBSERVATIONS :
1. Dimensions of the soil sample
L (cm)
D (cm)

=
=
2. Weight of Soil Sample (gm)


=

=
3. CS Area of the Soil Sample (cm
2
) = 4. Volume of Soil Sample (cc) =
5. Proving Ring Constant = 6. Bulk Unit Weight of Soil
sample
=
43
7. Water content of the sample =

Tabulation:
Trail 1 : Cell Pressure (o3) = 100 kPa
Dial Gauge
Reading
(div)
Proving Ring
Reading
(div)
Strain (c) %
Corrected Area
(cm
2
)
AC = Ao / (1-c)
Load
(KN)
Stress
(kPa)
0.25 %
0.50 %
0.75 %
1.00 %
.
.
.
20%

Cell Pressure
or Confining
Pressure o3
(kPa)
Deviator Stress at
Failure Aof (kPa)
Major Principal Stress
o1 = (o3 +Aof) kPa
Strain at
failure % (cf)
Principal Stress
Ratio
(o1 /o3)
Shear Strength
Parameters
C (kPa) =
| =



RESULTS
1. Angle of Internal Friction (|) =
2. Undrained Cohesion C (kPa) =

REFERENCE:
IS:2720 (Part11)-1991 ( First Revision ), Indian Standard: Methods of testing for Soils: Part 11:
Determination of Shear Strength Parameters of a specimen tested in Un Consolidated Undrained
Triaxial Compression without the measurements of Pore Water Pressure
44
45