South Dakota Department of Transportation
Project Synopsis
SD1992-08
Title: Rapid Determination of Soil Consolidation
Project Researcher: Allen Marr,
Project Manager: Paul Orth
Research Period: 1/1/1900 - 1/1/1900
Status: Completed
Cost: $0.00
Problem Statement:The conventional AASHTO T-216 standard method of determining soil consolidation is a lengthy process. The SDDOT Geotechnical Lab has neither the time nor the manpower to do the desired amount of testing with the existing equipment and procedures. If possible, a shorter method of conducting this test with acceptable accuracy would be beneficial.
Findings:
Research Objectives:
1 Develop and verify an accelerated consolidation test procedure (using modified SDDOT equipment) that correlates to AASHTO T-216 standard. |
2 Develop a data analysis program to process test data into consolidation parameters. |
Research Tasks:
1 Conduct an up to date literature review concerning consolidation testing techniques including inquiries of other state DOT's procedures.
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2 Develop an accelerated consolidation test procedure that:
(A.)will use existing SDDOT Geotechnical Lab equipment without major modifications
(B.)will be compatible with the standard SDDOT 2 inch soil sample and the 2.5 inch thin wall tube sample
(C.)will not exceed eight hours total, including sample preparation, testing, data recording, and clean up. (four hours would be preferred)
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3 Modify existing SDDOT consolidation testing machine (Karol Warner model 350) to accommodate accelerated test procedure.
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4 Verify accelerated testing results by direct comparison with AASHTO T-216 standard test.
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5 Write a users manual to support testing procedure and equipment set-up. |
6 Develop user friendly, menu-driven data processing software for the IBM PC, compatible with HGA and VGA video adapters. Document with source code and users manual.
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7 Submit a final report summarizing relevant literature, research methodology, findings and conclusions.
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8 Provide training session at SDDOT Geotechnical Lab to familiarize personnel with test procedure and data processing program. |
Documents Available: