THE USE OF MCT METHODOLOGY FOR RAPID CLASSIFICATION OF TROPICAL

SOILS IN BRAZIL
Rita Moura Fortes *
Professor of Civil Engineering and Head of Propaedeutic Studies of Engineering, Presbyterian University
Mackenzie; Technical Director of LENC, So Paulo, Brazil
* Rua Maranho, 101 - apto 72, CEP 01240-001, So Paulo, Brazil
mfortes@terra.com.br
Joo Virgilio Merighi
Professor and Head, Department of Civil Engineering, Presbyterian University Mackenzie, So Paulo, Brazil
Consultant for the Department of Transportation, State of So Paulo, Brazil
ABSTRACT: The construction of pavement structures and the reinforcement of subgrade soils must be preceded
by accurate characterization of pavement materials and soils. The behavior of soils can vary from point to point,
even if the soils have the same genetic origin. The drainage condition of the subsoil can modify the
characteristics of its mechanical behavior. Thus, the success in the use of soils as a construction material requires
a great number of laboratory tests, significant time, and adequate financial resources. These factors and low costs
associated with abundantly available soil deposits allow the designers to optimize the management of highway
construction projects. A rapid methodology for classifying tropical soils in accordance with the MCT (Miniature,
Compacted, Tropical classification) is described to fill the gap in geotechnical investigation of soils used for
road construction. This paper presents the MCT classification of tropical soils and practical examples of its use
on highway construction projects in the state of So Paulo in Brazil. Considerable time and cost savings are
achieved by implementing the rapid disk method of the MCT classification to characterize tropical soils.
KEY WORDS: Highway, construction, tropical soils, lateritic soils, classification, MCT, disk method, visual

1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Soils of Tropical Regions
Soils that present abnormal properties as a result of the typical performance of geologic or pedologic processes
of humid tropical regions are called tropical soils. Tropical soils are subject to a variety of climatic conditions,
which warrant the need to appraise the genetic peculiarities of tropical soils. Two soils types are found in
tropical regions: lateritic soils and saprolitic soils.
Lateritic soils are found in upper layers, generally having red or yellow coloration due to the presence of
aluminum hydroxides and ferric hydrates, are homogeneous, and are more resistant to erosion. Thickness of the
upper layers are on the order of meters. This geologic process of disaggregation and decomposition is very slow
and mostly active in the upper layers, which are drained and situated well above the water level.
Saprolitic soils are formed due to decomposition of in situ rock underlying the lateritic soils and overlying the
fresh parent rock. The decomposed rock is heterogeneous and not resistant to erosion. Thickness of the saprolitic
layer is on the order of tens of meters. The saprolitic soil layer partially preserves some mineralogical and
structural characteristics of the parent rock. Many times its anisotropy is due to stratification of the parent rock.
Mica and kaolinite present in the silt soil fraction are responsible for the reduction of the plasticity index and
increased liquid limit. The presence of predominant colors like purple, violet, blue, and light green is another
peculiarity that allows the identification of saprolitic soil varieties.
The use of tropical lateritic soils as a construction material for highways allows for a cost reduction of over 50%
in costs associated with the subbase and base layers, or over 25% when the lateritic soil is treated with cement.
However, not all types of tropical soils are suitable for use as a subbase or stabilized base. There are only certain
types of lateritic soils having particular mechanical and hydraulic properties, which guarantee good performance
and long life. With increased costs due to the long transportation distances and continued reductions in available
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exploration and borrow areas of materials, it has become more difficult to find new deposits and justify their
exploration. Associated with the difficulty in finding material deposits, there is an increase in testing costs,
which adds to the total cost and extends project time.
1.2 Classification of Tropical Soils
The most widely used soil classification system in the study of road construction materials is the American
Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) classification [1]. It is based on a
classification system originally adopted by the United States Bureau of Public Roads in 1929, which rates soils
through gradation, liquid limit, and plasticity index properties [2].
The Unified Soil Classification System (USCS), originally developed by Arthur Casagrande in the 1940s and
adapted by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), is more commonly used for geotechnical
investigations of soils [3], rather than for the testing of soils used in highway projects. These traditional soil
classification systems designed for cold and temperate climates show severe discrepancies in the expected
geotechnical behavior of tropical soils. For example genetically distinct lateritic and saprolitic soils may receive
the same classification but show different geotechnical behavior. A literature search of studies concerning soil
identification and limitations when applied to tropical soils indicates that the MCT methodology [4,5] is the most
appropriate test for classifying tropical soils.
Traditional soil classifications, when applied to soils of tropical countries such as Brazil show a number of
deviations with regard to the geotechnical performance of the tropical soil. Recognizing the difficulties and
shortcomings detected in applying traditional soil classification methods, Nogami and Villibor [4,5] developed
the MCT methodology of soil testing based mainly on mechanical and hydraulic properties of compacted
tropical soils. This methodology is based on several test procedures, which accurately reproduce conditions of
compacted tropical soil layers and their geotechnical characteristics that mirror the in situ behavior of tropical
soils. Some of the reasons cited by Nogami and his colleagues [4,5] to develop the MCT method were:
Limitations in traditional procedures to characterize and classify soils based on gradation and the Atterberg
limits of Liquid Limit (LL) and Plasticity Index (PI). These index properties are insufficient to distinguish
between the main types of tropical soils and their opposite features, such as lateritic and saprolitic soils, often
mistakenly called residual soils in other countries. Experimental findings show good performance for
pavement bases made of fine-grained lateritic soils (sifting nearly completely through the 0.42 mm sieve). On
the other hand, traditional soil classification systems indicate that these soils are inappropriate for pavement
bases.
1.3 Objectives and Scope of the Study
The primary objective of this study is to describe a rapid test method for classifying tropical soils based on the
MCT methodology. This method is implemented for geotechnical investigations of soils for highway projects in
the state of So Paulo in Brazil.
2. MCT METHODOLOGY
The MCT soil classification methodology uses small-sized (50-mm diameter) specimens compacted according to
the adaptation of the United Kingdom Transportation and Road Research Laboratory (TRRL) procedure
presented by Parsons [6], Parsons and Borden [7], and a new test called the mass lost by total immersion. This
classification does not use the gradation, the liquid limit, and plasticity index as in the case of the traditional soil
classification tests. This methodology includes the following two test groups: Mini CBR (California Bearing
Ratio) and associated properties and Mini MCV (Moisture Condition Value) and associated properties.
2.1 Mini CBR Test Procedure
In this procedure, similar to the CBR (California Bearing Ratio), but different because this test uses a small size
(50 mm diameter) sample obtained though a compactation procedure called the mini Proctor. The molds have a
diameter of 50 mm and a volume of 100 ml. The sample mass is 250g, and the maximum grain diameter is 2
mm. The diameter of the penetration piston (plunger) is 16 mm, while the loading machine has a capacity and
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speed of 4.5 kN and 1.25 mm/min, respectively. There are two compactation rammers used for compaction: (a)
standard energy rammer weighing 2.27 kg, height of drop 305 mm, blows 10 total or 5 per side and (b) the
intermediate energy rammer weighing 4.5 kg, height of drop 305 mm, blows 12 total or 6 per side. Soaking
time is 24 hours. If not soaked, expansion can be determined as in the CBR test. This test is used for pavement
design as well as for choosing the soil to use in top subgrade layers, subbase layers, base layers, and shoulders.
Through the mini CBR (shown in Table 1) and associated test properties one can obtain characteristics of soils
appropriate for pavement bases. Usually, following compaction of specimens, several properties are established
such as bearing ratio (Mini CBR), expansion, contraction, sorptivity, and permeability.
Table 1. Mini CBR test
APPARATUS

SOIL

CHARACTERISTICS
Similar to CBR (California Bearing Ratio) using of small-sized (50mm diameter specimen), obtained through compaction procedure
called mini Proctor.
Molds: (50-mm diameter 100 ml volume of specimen)
Samples: specimen weight 250 g; maximum diameter of grains 2 mm
Compaction: standard energy (rammer weight 2.27 kg; height of drop
305 mm; blows (total) 10 (5 each side)); intermediate energy rammer
weight 4.5 kg; height of drop 305 mm; blows (total) 12 (6 each side).
Soaking time: 24 hours or without immersion and determine
expansion similar to CBR test.
Penetration piston (plunger): mini (16 mm diam.).
Loading Machine: capacity 4.5 kN; speed 1.25 mm/min.

APPLICATION

Used for design

of pavements and
selection of soils
in tropical regions
to use in subgrade
layers, subbase
layers, base layers
and shoulders.

2.2 Mini MCV Test Procedure

This test was developed by Nogami and Villibor in 1980 for tropicals soils and has been continually updated
since that time [4,5]. The mini MCV test uses a small diameter (50 mm) sample. The mass of each sample (for
establishing five points) is 200g and the maximum grain diameter is 2 mm. Each portion of the sample is
compacted in a miniature compaction apparatus, allowing the measurement of the height of the potion inside the
mold. The highest moisture content portion (moisture w1) is introduced it into the mold positioned in the way
illustrated, pressing its top with the appropriate cylinder, before introducing the rammer (2.27 kg with 305 mm
drop height).
The first drop is made and the height A1 of the specimen is measured. The second drop is made and the height
A2 is recorded. The test is continued making successive blows (while taking corresponding measurements of
height) in the following series: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, n, n + 1, 4n. Successive blows are stopped when the
difference in height between successive measurements becomes less than 0.1 mm, or when water expulsion is
apparent on the top or bottom of the specimen, or the cumulative number of blows reaches 256. This procedure
is a part of the MCT classification method to determine the classification of the soil, either lateritic or nonlateritic, and it is used to prepare samples for other tests of MCT methodology.
The mass-lost-by-immersion test (Pi) is shown in Table 3. After mini MCV compaction, the specimen is
partially extruded from the mold, so that a 10-mm long portion becomes salient. The mold and specimen are
positioned horizontally in a tank which is filled with water until the water level reaches at least 10 mm above the
mold. The behavior of the specimen is observed during the first few hours. At least 12 hours later the fallen part
is collected and its dry mass and the mass lost by total immersion are determined.
The mini MCV and associated tests (shown in Tables 2 and 3) provide parameters to determine the c and
e coefficients which are used to rate tropical soils according to the MCT methodology, in addition to the
determination of all other properties mentioned in the Mini CBR and associated test.

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Table 2. Compaction test - Mini MCV

APPARATUS

CHARACTERISTICS
TEST

RAMMER

MOLD
FEET OF RAMMER

SPECIMEN
BASE

RAMMER
WEIGHT (g)
2270,4500
1000

HEIGHT
DROP
305 mm
200 mm

Sample
preparation for
tests using MCT
MINI PROCTOR: Variable moisture condition and energy. The energy methodology.
corresponding Proctor energy.
This procedure is
MINI MCV: variable moisture condition and energy, moistened sample for a part of MCT
compaction is 200 g (mini) and 30 g (Sub mini).
classification
method.
The compaction procedure is similar to the one proposed by Parsons in 1976
[6] and Parsons and Borden in 1979 [7]. Each portion is compacted in a
miniature compaction apparatus, allowing the height of the sample inside the Obtained at
mold to be measured. The highest moisture content portion (moisture w1) is maximum density
introduced it into the mold positioned as illustrated, pressing gently at its top for various
moisture contents
with the appropriate cylinder, before introducing the rammer.
(variation in
After the first drop, the height A1 of the specimen is measured. Make the
second drop and record the height A2, and repeat for successive blows taking compaction
measurements of height, following the series proposed by Parsons: 1, 2, 3, 4, energy).
6, 8, 12, 16, n, n + 1, 4n. Stop to make a successive blow when the
difference in height between successive measurements is less than 0.1 mm, or
when water expulsion is apparent at the top or bottom of the specimen, or the
number of blows reaches 256.
Mini ou M
SubMini ou S

DIAL

MOLD
(mm)
50
26

APPLICATION

Table 3. The mass-lost-by-immersion test (Pi)

APPARATUS

PROCEDURE
After mini MCV compaction, the specimen is partially
extruded from the mold, so that a part 10 mm long
becomes salient.
The mold with specimen is positioned horizontally in a
tank, which is flooded until the water level is at least 10
mm above the mold.
The behavior of the specimen is observed during the
first few hours. At least 12 hours later the fallen part is
collected and its dry weight and mass lost by total
immersion is determined. [3,4,5]

APPLICATION
A part of MCT
classification
methodology.
Determines the
behavior of the
soil: lateritic or
non-lateritic
Erosion
resistance.

The properties obtained through the mini CBR and associated tests are determined on specimens compacted at
constant energy, equivalent to normal and intermediate levels at several moisture contents. For the mini MCV
(shown in Table 2) and associated tests, with the exception of the mass-lost-by-immersion test (Table 3), soil
properties are obtained at maximum density for various moisture contents (reflecting variations in the
compaction energy). Nogami and Villibor [4,5] proposed the mini MCV test as a part of the MCT classification
method. The MCT methodology aims at grouping tropical soils according to their behavioral peculiarities from
the mechanical-hydraulic point of view. However, to identify these soil groups quickly in the field, the
methodology lacked a rapid consolidated procedure such as that developed by Casagrande for other soils [3].
Nogami and Cozzolino started the development of the disk method in 1985 [8]. Fortes in 1990 [9] and Fortes
and Nogami in 1991 [10] submitted a proposal for a trial and identification procedure of MCT groups using
simple equipment to produce a number of quick and straightforward calculations based on empirical indices and
qualitative values. This procedure can be carried out in the field at a low cost and identifies lateritic and nonlateritic behavior according to the MCT classification groups [9,10].

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MCT
METHODOLOGY

GROUP OF TESTS
MINI CBR AND
ASSOCIATED TESTS
COMPACTION TEST
MINI PROCTOR

GROUP OF TESTS MINI

MCV AND ASSOCIATED
TESTS

COMPACTION
TEST
MINI MCV

DYNAMIC
PENETROMETER

GROUP OF
TEST IN
SITU TESTS
MINI CBR

MINI MCV

CONVENTIONAL MOISTURE CONDITION

THE MASS LOST BY

TOTAL IMMERSION

ASSOCIATED TESTS
MINI CBR
EXPANSION, CONTRACTION, SORPTIVITY TEST,
PERMEABILITY

Figure 1. Test groups of the MCT methodology [14]

3. MCT CLASSIFICATION OF TROPICAL SOILS

3.1 Overview and Example Applications of MCT Classification

The MCT methodology derives from the practice of using small specimens (50 mm in diameter) of compacted
tropical soils. Figure 1 shows a schematic of the MCT methodology as described by Villibor et al. [14]. The
MCT classification separates tropical soils into classes of: (1) lateritic behavior and (2) non-lateritic behavior.
The lateritic and saprolitic soils, according to the MCT classification, can belong to the following groups of
lateritic behavior, assigned by letter L, being subdivided in 3 groups: LA lateritic quartzous sand; LA lateritic sandy, from arena; and LG lateritic clayey from argila. Non-lateritic behavior (saprolitic) soils,
assigned by letter N, are subdivided in 4 groups: NA non-lateritic sand, silts and mixtures and silts with
predominance of quartz grain and/or mica; NA quartzous sandy with fine or non-lateritic behavior (alone
arena); NS non lateritic silt, and NG non-lateritic clayey.
To classify lateritic and saprolitic soils through the MCT Methodology, the graph of Figure 2 is used. The
dashed line separates soils of lateritic behavior from the soils of non-lateritic behavior. The mechanical and
hydraulic behavior of the soil can be estimated using Table 4.
Nogami and Cozzolino [8] considered a quick procedure in view of the necessity of rapid tropical soil
identification in the field. Fortes [9] and Fortes and Nogami [10] presented a proposal for an easy procedure to
identify MCT groups that corresponded to a series of fast and simple determinations, based on empirical indices
and qualitative determination, using simple equipment in the field. This low-cost method differentiates between
soils of lateritic and non-lateritic behavior as MCT classifications.

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L = LATERITIC
N = NON-LATERITIC
A = SAND
A = SANDY
S = SILTY
G = CLAY

Coefficient c

0.27 0.5 0.7

2.00

Index e

1.75
1.50

1.15
1.00

0.50

0.0

0.5 0.7

1.0

1.5 1.7

2.0

2.5

3.0

Coefficient c

Figure 2. Graph of MCT soil classifications [11]

Table 4. Properties and relative desirability in transportation applications based on MCT soil classification
groups [11]
BEHAVIOR
MCT GROUP
PROPERTIES (1)

NA

N = NON-LATERITIC
NA
NS
NG

L = LATERITIC
LA
LA
LG

NOT SOAKED

M, H

M, H

V, H

SOAKED
EXPANSION
SHRINKAGE
PERMEABILITY (K)
SORPTIVITY (s)
PAVEMENT BASE
SELECT SUBGRADE
COMPACTED SUBGRADE
EMBANKMENT (CORE)
EMBANKMENT (SHELL)
EARTH ROAD SURFACING

M, H
L
L
M, H
H
N
4th
4th
4th
N
5th
SP

M, H
L
L, M
L
L, M
4th
5th
5th
5th
3rd
3rd
SM
SC
ML
A-2
A-4
A-7

L, M
H
M
L, M
H
n
n
7th
6th
n
n
SM, CL
ML
MH
A-4
A-5
A-7

L
M, H
M, H
L, M
M, H
n
n
6th
7th
n
n
MH
CH

H
L
L
L, M
L
2nd
2nd
2nd
2nd
n
4th
SP

H
L
L, M
L
L
1st
1st
1st
1st
2nd
1st

H
L
M, H
L
L
3rd
3rd
3rd
3rd
1st
2nd
MH
ML
CH
A-6
A-7-5

MINI-CBR
V = VERY HIGH
H = HIGH
M = MEDIUM
L = LOW
RELATIVE
DESIRABILITY AS:
n = NOT SUITABLE

CLASSIFICATION
OBTAINED FROM
TRADITIONAL
INDEX
PROPERTIES

USCS/ASTM
SM
A-2
AASHTO

SC
SC

A-6
A-7-5
A-7-6

A-2

A-2
A-4

(1) Specimens compacted near the maximum dry density and optimum moisture using standard compaction effort

3.2 Development of Rapid Disk Method

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Nogami and Villibor in 1994 and 1996 [11,12,13] and Villibor et al. in 2000 [14] presented simplifications to
identify MCT groups through a graph of the diametrical contraction (shrinkage) versus the penetration values.
The method is based on the fabrication of small disks of soil (20-mm diameter) that are molded in stainless steel
rings and dried. After drying, the diametrical contraction of the inserts cast in stainless steel rings is measured.
The inserts are then submitted to a sorptivity test, which makes it possible to see cracking, expansion activity,
and resistance to the penetration of a standard needle. A mini penetrometer is used to determine the shrinkage
and consistency after soaking dried specimens in water. In 1997, Fortes presented a proposal to standardize this
rapid disk procedure at the conference of the First Permanent Chamber of Occurred Technological Development
in the Presbyterian University Mackenzie [15].
The proposed disk method for rapid identification has been standardized by the Department of Transportation of
the State of So Paulo (DER-SP) in Brazil and has been successfully used in several recent highway projects.
The Cost-Effective Paving Program developed by NOVACAP (NOVA CAPITAL, the new capital city of the
federal district in Brazil) has adopted this procedure during the feasibility study and executive planning stages as
a strategy to cut costs and provide alternative cost-effective paving solutions for the satellite cities in Brazil.
Currently the procedure is being used as a preliminary geotechnical investigation tool by DER-SP in a
construction project to double a 120 km extension of the Raposo Tavares highway SP 270, known as AssisPrudente [16].
4. DISK METHOD FOR RAPID IDENTIFICATION OF TROPICAL SOILS
The detailed description of the inexpensive and simple disk method of rapid soil identification is presented. This
method was developed for highway applications using the MCT tropical soil classification methodology based
on a simple manual-visual examination.
4.1 Definitions and Conventions
(a) Contraction (Ct) is the diametrical contraction of the disk or shrinkage, expressed in mm, with a
precision of 0.1 mm.
(b) Penetration is the measure of penetration of the point near the confined border and in the center using
one standard mini penetrometer, expressed in mm, with a precision of 0.1 mm.
(c) Fissures appear on the top of the specimen after a 2-hour soaking of the specimen.
(d) Expansion is the increase in the diameter of the test specimen measured after soaking.
4.2 Apparatus and Materials
In addition to the usual soils laboratory equipment, the following devices are used for the accomplishment of this
quick test:
(1) Stainless steel rings with internal diameter of 20 0.05 mm, 5 mm high, and 3-mm wall thickness.
(2) Porous stones having a thickness of 5 mm and permeability of about 10-2 cm/s, capable of maintaining a
negative pressure of 5 mm water column again its exterior surface as seen in Figure 3.
(3) Devices for measuring contraction with a precision of 0.1 mm. A magnifying lens is useful.
(4) Flexible spatula with a blade about 80 x 20 mm.
(5) A device to dry the specimens at a maximum temperature of approximately 60 C.
(6) Sieves of 2.00 mm and 0.42 mm.
(7) A scale graduated in millimeters.
(8) A mini penetrometer with a uniform 1.3 mm diameter cylindrical shaped flat end having a total mass of
10 g. A universal penetrometer for asphalt penetration tests with the necessary adaptors can be used.
(9) Filter papers and a ground glass plate measuring about 100 x 100 x 4 mm. These are similar to those
used for determination of traditional soil index values of Plastic Limit (PL) and PI. Figure 4 (a) shows
the equipment used.

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A2

A5

A3

5 mm
A4

A1

Item
A1
A2
A3
A4
A5

Description
Water
Porous stone
Filter paper
Plate
Rings - diameter of 20 mm, height of 5 mm

Figure 3. Device for soaking specimen

4.3 Test Procedure

(a) Calibration: The plate of porous rock must be clean, saturated, and level, with negative pressure applied as
described in item 4.2.
(b) Sample preparation: Dry the collected sample in air and crush the aggregates in a mortar with a rubbercovered pestle. Get at least 30 ml or 50 grams of the sample fraction that passes the 0.42 mm sieve.
Humidify the sample fraction that passes the 0.42 mm sieve in capsule stanches and leave it to rest for a
minimum of 8 hours.
(c) Test steps:
(c.1) Mixing: Mix the sample thoroughly with a spatula over a glass plate, either adding water drops or
drying as required until its thickness is exactly 1 mm. This step is shown in Figure 4 (b). In non-lateritic
sands, silts, or clayey soils, thoroughly mixing 100 times with a spatula is enough. In clayey or sand
lateritic soils, the mixing may be very intense, requiring about 400 times with the spatula. After
completion of mixing, determine the consistency of the sample using a mini penetrometer.
(c.2) Molding and drying of the specimen: Get a small spheroid (diameter of about 10 mm) of the sample
that was previously mixed and reached the consistency of a 1-mm penetration. Put the spheroid inside
the ring, and press it with the thumb against a ring horizontally displayed on a Teflon sheet. In the case
of very sticky soils, use a horizontal flat surface covered with a thin PVC film or another material to
prevent adherence of the soil to the border of the ring. Cut the excess material using a wire trimmer.
While finishing the cutting operation, if you observe depression in any of its two faces then repeat the
operation until as much of the exterior face of the interior of the ring of soil is filled by the mixture, as
shown in Figure 4 (c). Hold the filled rings with an appropriate support to keep them in a vertical
position, and place them to dry at a maximum temperature of 60 C for at least 6 hours. They can be left
to dry in the surrounding air, but the drying time must be at least 12 hours.
(c.3) Shrinkage measurement: Cool the joint ring-specimens for about 15 minutes if they were dried in a
greenhouse. Place the specimens on a plain, horizontal surface. Measure the shrinkage (or diametrical
contraction) using the precision millimeter scale with the aid of a magnifying lens, repeating the
measurement at three different points on the disk at 120 angular displacements. See an illustration in
Figure 4 (d).
(c.4) Soaking and penetration measurement: Transfer the ring with the respective disk to a porous plate
saturated and covered by a paper filter. This is shown in Figure 4 (e). Let it rest about two hours. Mark
and note if the tablet shows fissures or expansion of its exterior surface. See examples in Figures 4 (f),
(g), (h), and (i). Measure the penetration of the disks using with a standard mini penetrometer, as shown
in Figures 4 (j) and (k). Leave the penetrometer tip on the surface of the central area of the disk or
separate blocks containing fissures, freeing it to penetrate in a vertical line, and allowing a free fall.
Conduct at least three tests for each disk.

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(a)

(b)

(d)

(e)

(c)

(j)

(h)

(f)

(g)

(i)

(k)

Figure 4. Disk Method: (a) equipment, (b) thorough mixing with the spatula, (c) molding of the disks, (d)
measurement of the shrinkage, (e), (f), and (g) sorptivity, (h) and (i) expansion, (j) and (k) penetration
Coefficient c

0.5

0.9

1.3

1.7

0.2

NS NA

NS / NA

NA

NA / NS

NA / NS

NS NG

NG

NA
(NGNS)

LA
1

Penetration (mm)

NA NS

LA

LA LG

LG

LA LA
0.15

0.22

0.55

0.90

1.40

Diametrical Contraction or Shrinkage Measurement (mm)

Figure 5. Chart for tropical soil classification by the disk method [13]

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4.4 Results
a) Contraction (Ct) is the diametrical contraction of disk of soil (or shrinkage) after drying,
expressed in mm, with a precision of 0.1 mm.
b) Penetration is the measure for penetration of the point next to the confined border using the
standard mini penetrometer, expressed in mm, with a precision of 0.1 mm.
c) The value of coefficient c can be read directly from the graph showing the disk method
classification developed by Nogami and Villibor [13] and presented in Figure 5.
4.5 Soil Classification
The measurements of the diametrical contraction or shrinkage and the penetration are used with the tropical soil
classification chart in Figure 5 to assign the tropical soil group letter according to the MCT methodology.
4.6 Complementary Determination
The rapid disk test must be repeated when the values of penetration measured in the test specimen and the
sorptivity are close to or equal 2 mm. This implies that the results correspond to samples, which are close to the
line that separates lateritic soil groups (prefix L) from the non-lateritic soil groups (prefix N) in the MCT
classification graph. The rapid test must be repeated by applying pressure in the disk mold with the aid of a small
rigid plate and a piece of thick filter paper. The new measurements are adopted for the preliminary classification
of tropical soils.
5. COMPARISON OF RESULTS FROM THE RAPID DISK METHOD AND THE TRADITIONAL
MCT METHODOLOGY
Table 5 presents the results of 34 samples using the new rapid disk test method and the traditional MCT
methodology [16]. It is observed that the classification discrepancies are more representative for the sand soils,
which show non-lateritic behavior and similar properties. Most of the results are consistent considering that the
disk method is used for preliminary soil identification using the MCT classification.
Table 5. Correlation between traditional MCT classification and rapid disk method identification [16]
Sample
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17

Traditional MCT
Classification
LA'/LG'
LA'/LG'
LA'
LG'
LA'
LG'
LA'/LG'
LA'
LG'
LG'
LA'
LA'
LA'
LG'
LA'/LG'
LA'/LG'
NS'
NA'/NG'LA'/LG'
NA'

Rapid MCT Classification

Sample

Traditional MCT Rapid MCT Classification

by Disk Method
LA'
LA'/LG'
LA'
LA'
LA'
LA'/LG'
LA'/LG'
LA'
LA'/LG'
LA'/LG'
LA/LA'
LA/LA'
LA'
LG'
LA'/LG'
LA'/LG'
NA/NS'LA'/LG'
NG'
NA/NS'LA'/LG'

18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34

Classification
LA
LG
LA
LG
LA/NA
LA
NA
LG
LG
NA
LA
NA
NS/NA
NA
NS/NA
NS
NA/NS

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IJP 2003 Volume 2 Number 3 September 2003 Page 10

by Disk Method
LA/LG
LG
LG
LG
NA
NA/LA
NA
LG
LG
NA
LG
NA
NA/NS
NA/NS
NA/NS
NS/NA
NA/NS

6. THE BR-0295 HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

The Government of the State of So Paulo, desiring to improve the traffic and security conditions for the 20,000
km network of roads under its jurisdiction and consequently increase the efficiency of the production sectors and
reduce transport costs, planned a comprehensive program of maintenance for approximately 1,200 km of roads
under the jurisdiction of DER-SP [17]. The maintenance consists of the following phases: rehabilitation,
restoration, and reconstruction.
For the implementation of this program, the Government of the State of So Paulo requested financial support
from the Inter-American Bank of Development (BID). The expected total investment is US$ 240 million,
consisting of US$ 120 million financed by BID and US$ 120 million by the State treasury. The road
maintenance program, conceived with an integrated approach, involved the following topics:
a) Maintenance of the selected roads: rehabilitation, restoration, or reconstruction of the selected roads;
implementation of pavement shoulders; construction of intersections; and restoration or reconstruction of
bridges and drainage structures.
b) Improvements in the condition of road safety: implementation of a third traffic lane of traffic; adjustments to
road geometry; implementation of areas for bus stops, bike lanes, and central islands; and rehabilitation of
the horizontal and vertical alignments.
c) Rehabilitation of the corridor environment: involving slope stabilization; soil deposits; old areas of support
to the workmanship (seedbeds, deposits, plant, etc.); replacement of the vegetation covering the degraded
areas; and rehabilitation of the areas where soil erosion occurred that posed risks to adjacent areas.
The first phase of this project had 23 lots with a total of about 1,200 km in the State of So Paulo, which were
approved in January of 2002 and 704 km of construction initiated in January of 2003. The second phase of the
program includes 465 km of roads divided into 15 lots, which were initiated in July of 2002 completed in July of
2003.
In the geotechnical investigation proposal presented in the Public Bid CO 010, studies of the soil deposits were
foreseen. These studies were intended so that the existing soil deposits could be used as a reinforcing subgrade
layer as well as for subbase and base layers, either stabilized with cement or used with no stabilization. Some
adjustments were made to the long phase 1 program, considering the distances between the roads and the
respective deposits of materials, locations of the test laboratories, the necessary time for the accomplishment of
the tests, and the financial constraints. The program adjustments were later standardized for the project for
doubling SP 270 in phase 2 of the same program.
Initially, the AASHTO soil classification was used in geotechnical studies. However, due to the peculiarities
described previously, the studies of the soil deposits were modified using the rapid MCT classification by the
disk method. In the field, the soils in areas with potential for use as a structural pavement layer, a sieve of 50mm mesh is used, and a test is made for each sample removed from one corner of the quadrilateral. Samples of
1 m x 1 m are collected in the field since the material does not have variations in the texture and color.
The rapid disk method is executed at about 40% of the cost of a complete traditional MCT classification
procedure. When the soil deposits are identified for potential use as materials of construction, more samples are
selected to conduct complete MCT classification tests.
By the end of the year 2003, tests will be completed for the first inter-laboratory program. Since 1995 the MCT
test has been added to the list of standard tests for inter-laboratory test programs developed in Brazil.

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IJP 2003 Volume 2 Number 3 September 2003 Page 11

7. CONCLUDING REMARKS
This paper presents the MCT classification of tropical soils and practical examples of its use on highway
construction projects. These highway projects consist of over 1,200 km of rehabilitation/reconstruction and the
construction of a third highway lane in the state of So Paulo, Brazil. The use of the rapid MCT classification
test has been successful in the western region of the state of So Paulo where thick layers of lateritic soils are
found adjacent to non-lateritic soils, making it difficult to distinguish between the soils based on color and the
visual guidelines typically used for tropical soils.
For the study of soil material deposits, the rapid disk method of MCT classification offers lower costs and less
time than complete traditional MCT classification tests. It is essential to use a representative sample, since the
amount of soil necessary to perform the rapid MCT classification test is small. In case of doubt, one proceeds in
accordance with the complete traditional MCT methodology.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: The authors thank Job Shuji Nogami of the Laboratory of Pavement Technology of
the Polytechnic School of the University of So Paulo (LTP-EPUSP) for his contributions to the disk method for
rapid MCT classification and to the standardization process. Thanks are also due to the staff of LENC Laboratrio de Engenharia e Consultoria S/C Ltda, particularly to the head of the laboratory, Bencio Bibiano
Bento for conducting the tests reported in this paper.
REFERENCES:
[1]

AASHTO. Standard Specifications for Transportation Materials and Methods of Sampling and Testing.
Part I, Specifications; Part II, Tests. American Association of State Highways and Transportation
Officials, Washington, D.C., 1978.
[2] Hogentogler, C.A. and K. Terzaghi. Interrelationship of Load, Road and Subgrade. Public Roads,
Volume10, Number 3, 1929.
[3] ASTM D2487 Standard: Classification of Soils for Engineering Purposes (Unified Soil Classification
System). American Society for Testing and Material, Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Volume 04.08,
Soil and Rock, 1986.
[4] Nogami, J.S. and D.F. Villibor. Uma Nova Classificao para Finalidades Rodovirias, Proceedings
SIMP. BRAS. SOLOS TROPICAIS EM ENG., COPPE/ABMS, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil, Rio de Janeiro, 1981,
pp.30-40.
[5] Nogami, J.S. and D.F. Villibor. Additional Considerations about a New Geotechnical Classification for
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Saprolitic Soils, Braslia, Brasil, 1985, Volume 1, pp. 165-174.
[6] Parsons, A.W. The rapid measurement of the moisture condition of earthwork material. TRRL Report 750,
Crowthorne, U.K., 1976.
[7] Parsons, A.W. and J.B. Borden. The moisture condition test and its potential applications in earthworks.
TRRL Supplementary Report 522, Crowthorne, U.K., 1979.
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mtodo preliminar. Proceedings, Anais da 20 Reunio Anual de Pavimentao, Fortaleza, Cear, Brasil,
1985, Volume 2.
[9] Fortes, R.M. Mtodo Expedito de Identificao MCT de Solos Tropicais, para Finalidades Rodovirias,
Utilizando-se Anis de PVC Rgido. Dissertao de Mestrado, Escola Politcnica da Universidade de So
Paulo, So Paulo, Brasil, 1990, 210p.
[10] Fortes, R.M. and Nogami, J.S. Mtodo Expedito de identificao do grupo MCT de Solos Tropicais,
utilizando-se anis de PVC Rgido. Proceedings,Anais da 25 Reunio Anual de Pavimentao, So
Paulo, Brasil, 1991,Volume1, pp. 591-604.
[11] Nogami, J.S. and D.F. Villibor. A new simple method for classification of lateritic and saprolitic soils.
Proceedings, 7th International IAEG Congress, Balkema, Rotterdam, Netherland, 1994, ISBN 90
5410503 B, pp. 3391-3399.

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[12] Nogami, J.S. and D.F. Villibor. Identificao Expedita dos Grupos de Classificao MCT para Solos
Tropicais. Proceedings, Anais do 10 COBRAMSEF, Foz do Iguau, Paran, Brasil, 1994, Volume 4, pp.
1293-1300.
[13] Nogami, J.S. and D.F. Villibor. Importncia e determinao do Grau de Laterizao em Geologia de
Engenharia. Proceedings, Anais do VIII Congresso da ABGE, Rio de Janeiro , Brasil, 1996, Volume 1,
pp. 345-358.
[14] Villibor, D.F., J.S. Nogami, M. Beligni, and J.R. Cincerre. Pavimentos com Solos Laterticos e Gesto de
Manuteno de Vias Urbanas. ABPv Associao Brasileira de Pavimentao e Universidade Federal
de Uberlndia, Faculdade de Engenharia Civil, So Paulo, Brasil, 2000.
[15] Fortes, R.M. Mtodo das Pastilhas para Identificao Expedita do Grupo MCT Miniatura, Compactada,
Tropical. 1 Cmara Permanente de Desenvolvimento Tecnolgico, Universidade Mackenzie, So Paulo,
SP, Brasil, 1997.
[16] Fortes, R.M., J.V. Merighi, and A. Zuppolini Neto. Mtodo das Pastilhas para Identificao Expedita de
Solos Tropicais. Proceedings, 2 Congresso Rodovirio Portugus, Lisboa, Portugal, 18 a 20 de novembro
de 2002, LNEC, Volume II, pp. 17-28.
[17] Briganti, L. A. and J.V. Merighi. O projeto de restaurao de pavimento do programa BID/DER: estudo
de caso. 2 Simpsio sobre obras rodovirias RODO2002, Brasil.

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