Accession Number:

ADA581212

Title:

Evaluation of a Non-Nuclear Soil Density Gauge on Fine-Grained Soils

Descriptive Note:

Final rept.

Corporate Author:

ENGINEER RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER VICKSBURG MS GEOTECHNICAL AND STRUCTURES LAB

Personal Author(s):

• Mejias-Santiago, Mariely
• Berney, IV, Ernest S.
• Bradley, Chase T.

Report Date:

2013-05-01

Pagination or Media Count:

92.0

Abstract:

This report presents results from an evaluation of a non-nuclear soil moisture-density gauge, the Soil Density Gauge SDG 200, tested on a series of 16 different fine-grained soils. If the results were successful, the device would serve as a replacement to the standard nuclear moisture-density gauge. Results from a standard nuclear moisture-density gauge were used for comparison. Results of the tests are presented and include comparisons of the dry densities obtained from the SDG and the nuclear gauge. Correlations between the two devices showed a strong dependence on plasticity characteristics to distinguish among soil types. The lack of internal calibration for fine soils demonstrated poor correlation between moisture conditions for a given soil. Similar to SDG studies on coarser soils, the proper response from the SDG for fine-grained soils requires calibration of the dry density using at least one independent density sample obtained in the field with an alternative device such as a sand cone or a nuclear moisture-density gauge.

Descriptors:

• *SOILS
• DENSITY
• ELECTRICAL IMPEDANCE
• FINE GRAINED MATERIALS
• MOISTURE

Subject Categories:

• Soil Mechanics

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE