Protocol for Cohesionless Sample Preparation for Physical Experimentation
Abstract
The construction method and applied energy significantly influence sample behavior and strength characteristics; therefore, an energy-based sample reconstitution method is derived wherein uncertainties and laboratory scatter associated with soil fabric-behavior variance during sample preparation are mitigated. Samples of two different sands prepared using relative density methods resulted in different strengths at the point of failure; however, when prepared to the same normalized density, the same strength at the point of failure was observed. This suggests that normalized density could be a useful approach for laboratory investigation of cohesionless materials. The procedure developed controls the three principal components of sample reconstitution, mass/type of material, quantity of water, and quantity/means of applied energy. All other properties, e.g., density, void ratio, etc., are products of sample preparation. Therefore, by controlling the three principal variables in sample preparation, high sample repeatability can be readily achieved wherein comparable analysis between different laboratory tests results can be made by ensuring a comparable soil fabric prior to laboratory testing.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1008674
Entities
People
- Amy L. Cunningham
- Katherine E. Winters
- Mark D. Antwine
- Oliver-denzil S. Taylor
- Wesley R. Rowland
- Woodman W. Berry