FACULTY OF ENGINEERING & BUILT ENVIRONMENT

UNIVERSITI KEBANGSAAN MALAYSIA

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

KKKH3213 GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING

SEMESTER 2 2022/2023

LAB REPORT

GROUP 6

Name Matric Number

Teresa Wong Bee Ching A182798

Muhammad Tsaqif bin Mazelan A182781

Muhammad Alif Syahmi bin Ahmad Shukri A182216

Nur Aqila Shazreen binti Zaihan A180698

Nurul Anis Shahira binti Mohd Noor A180041

CONTENTS
UK1 CONSOLIDATION TEST
1.0 INTRODUCTION
2.0 OBJECTIVE
3.0 APPARATUS
4.0 PROCEDURE
5.0 RESULT AND CALCULATION
6.0 DISCUSSION
7.0 CONCLUSION
8.0 APPENDIX
9.0 REFERENCES
UK2 DIRECT SHEAR TEST (SHEAR BOX)
1.0 INTRODUCTION
2.0 OBJECTIVE
3.0 APPARATUS
4.0 PROCEDURE
5.0 RESULT AND CALCULATION
6.0 DISCUSSION
7.0 CONCLUSION
8.0 APPENDIX
9.0 REFERENCES
UK3 SOIL STRENGTH TEST (TRIAXIAL TEST)
1.0 INTRODUCTION
2.0 OBJECTIVE
3.0 APPARATUS
4.0 PROCEDURE
5.0 RESULT AND CALCULATION
6.0 DISCUSSION
7.0 CONCLUSION
8.0 APPENDIX
9.0 REFERENCES
 UK 1: CONSOLIDATION TEST

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Soil consolidation refers to the process through which a stress causes the volume of a
saturated (partially or totally) soil to decrease. The term was developed by Karl von Terzaghi,
called as the "father of soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering,". The Standard Oedometer
Test and One-dimensional Compression Test are other names for the Consolidation Test. Besides,
saturated soil samples are used for this test, especially if the soil is cohesive.

A load added to a low permeability soil is initially generated by the water that is already in
the porous, saturated soil, which causes a sudden increase in pore water pressure. As water drains
from the soil's voids, the extra pore water pressure is released, and it is then transferred to the soil
skeleton, where it gradually compresses and causes settlements. The sediment is composed of three
components. The components are:

1. Sediment immediately

When saturated clay soil is suddenly loaded, the soil will deform and pore water
pressure increases more. This deformation occurs without a change in soil volume
because the permeability of the clay is too small. This vertical deformation
produces sediment immediately.

2. Reinforcement sediment

Initially, the additional load applied will be borne by the water in the pores land.
This is because water is incompressible compared to soil. Pressure deeper in the
water caused by the load is called 'hydrostatic pressure' more'. This extra pressure
will then force water to flow out of the soil pores. The excess load will then be
borne by the grain of the soil itself. The water that flows out causes the soil volume
to decrease. This process is called reinforcement. The permeability of fine-grained
soils such as clay is too small. Hence the process consolidation for clay soils takes
a long time. In practical time which is taken to reach 90 – 95% consolidation of the
clay may take between 5 up to 20 (or more) years, depending on the value of the
 land. Meanwhile, for soils with medium particles such as sand, settling can happen
immediately.

3. Secondary compression or creep.

The change in volume is more or less independent of changes in pore water pressure
values causing secondary compression. The mechanism of this change is not
understood completely, but apparently due to a form of plastic flow that produces
displacement of soil particles.

2.0 OBJECTIVE
This test is to determine the magnitude and rate of consolidation of saturated soil samples.

3.0 APPARATUS

1. Metal reinforcing ring with cutting edge

2. Perforated plate to be placed above and below the soil sample.

3. Reinforcement cells.

4. Dial gauge with an accuracy of 0.002 mm and can give a reading of at least 6 mm.

5. Loading device.

6. Palette knife.

7. Wire saw.

8. Steel ruler.

9. Two glass plates.

10. Tools for determining moisture content.

11. Filter paper or filter.

 12. A clock with a one-second reading.

13. Silicone grease.

14. Evaporation plate.

15. Tools to determine the specific density of soil.

4.0 PROCEDURE

A) Preparation of Soil Samples for Testing

1) The two glass plates and the reinforcing ring need to be cleaned, dried, and weighed.
The glass plate and the reinforcing ring are both weighed and pegged. Then, a little silicone
lubricant is used to smooth out the reinforcement on the bracelet.

2) A jack is used to eject the soil sample from the sampler tube. Once the soil sample has
emerged from the sampler tube, it is then evenly pressed into the sample until it just peaks
above the surface of the bracelet.

3) A wire saw was used to cut the soil until it was flush with the ring surface. A steel ruler
was also used. Any empty spaces were covered with the same soil if there are any.

4) The glass plate was positioned on top of the sample's cut surface. The other sample's
surface was cut, as in point (3) above, and the ring was turned on its side. The glass plate
is then placed. A tiny sample of extra (cut) soil was collected, for the purpose of assessing
the moisture content.

5) The weights of the samples, rings, and glass plates were totalled and recorded.
B) Set up the cell

1) The bottom punched plate was placed in the middle of the reinforcement cell.
It is first lined the sample surface with filter paper, then the existing bracelet the
soil sample in it was laid on the plate. The filter paper can be moistened for soft,
sensitive soils, and strengthened normally. But for those lands stronger, the filter
paper used should be dried. Then the plate punched up was placed. The plates
should first be filled with water.

2) The reinforcement cells are then placed on top of the loading device and the
balancing device of the load. They are fixed to a flat position.

3) In order to track movement between the stiffener's base and load cap, gauges
are held in place.

4) Then the load was carefully placed on the load hanger. The cell is fully filled
with water after 2 minutes. The compression gauge is read at time intervals of 0s,
15, 30, 1 min, 2min, 4min, 5min, 7min, 9min, 11min, 13min, 15min, 20min, 25min,
30min, 35min, 40min, 50min, 90 min, 120 min, 180 min, and 24 hours. The first
applied load pressure can be started with 1kg. The result has been taken for 7 days.

5) After 24 hours, the additional load and the amount to be added used is 2kg,
4kg, 8kg, 16kg, and 8kg. The load was unloaded on the seventh day.

C) Unloaded the load

Once the maximum load is applied and all gauge readings ready compression is taken, loads
are then unloaded and unloading tests are carried out. This is to allow the soil to compact. Once
done, the ring was removed and placed in an evaporating dish and weighed. The weight of the
evaporation plate was taken. Then the soil sample was dried in an oven with a temperature of
105 Celsius. The dry weight of the soil was cooled and weighted.
5.0 RESULT AND CALCULATION

Diameter =56 mm

𝜋𝐷 2 𝜋(56)2
Area of Specimen, A = = = 2463.01 𝑚𝑚2 = 24.63 𝑐𝑚2
4 4

Initial Height, 𝐻𝑜 = 20 mm

Initial Volume, 𝑉𝑜 = 2463.01 𝑚𝑚2 x 20 mm = 49260.2 𝑚𝑚3 = 49.26 𝑐𝑚3

Determination of Density/ Moisture Content

Density Moisture Content

Weight of Consolidation Ring = 59.8179 g No. Of Container = G6

Weight of Consolidation Ring and Soil = Weight of Container + Soil (wet) = 41.731 g
134.7385 g

Weight of Initial Sample (Wet), M = 74.9206 Weight of Moisture = 19.403 g

g

𝑀 Weight of Dry Soil = 15.109 g

Initial Density of Sample (Wet), 𝜌 = 𝑉 =
0

74.9206×10−3
= 1520.9216 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
49.26×10−6

𝜌
Initial Density of Sample (Dry), 𝜌𝑑 = 1+𝑤 = Moisture Content (w) = 4.29347 g
1520.9216 = 0.004293 kg
= 1514.4187 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3
1+0.004293

Pressure (kPa) Change in Initial Thickness, Change in Volume

Thickness, 𝐻𝑜 (mm) Pressure, 𝛥𝑃 Compressibility
𝛥𝐻 mm (kPa) Coefficient,
𝛥𝐻 (1)
𝑚𝑣 = 𝐻𝑜 𝛥𝑃

100 1.885 20 0 0

200 0.257 20 100 1.2850 × 10−4

400 0.307 20 200 0.7675 × 10−4

800 0.260 20 400 0.3250 × 10−4

 1600 0.133 20 800 0.0831 × 10−4

800 0.03 20 -800 0.0188 × 10−4

Sample Calculation:

● Specific Gravity of Soil, Gs = 2.49

𝑀 74.9206×10−3 𝑘𝑔
● 𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑆𝑜𝑙𝑖𝑑, 𝑊𝑠 = 1+𝑤 = = 0.0746 𝑘𝑔 𝑉𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑆𝑜𝑙𝑖𝑑, 𝑉𝑠 =
1+0.00429
𝑀 74.9206×10−3 𝑘𝑔
= 𝑘𝑔 = 3. 0089 × 10−5 𝑚3
𝐺𝑠 . 𝜌𝑤 2.49(1000 3 )
𝑚

● 𝑽𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑾𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒓, 𝑽𝒘 = 𝑽𝒐 − 𝑽𝒔 = (𝟒𝟗. 𝟐𝟔 × 𝟏𝟎−𝟔 𝒎𝟑 )−(3 × 10−5 𝑚3 ) =

1.930 × 10−5 𝑚3
𝑽𝒘 1.930×10−5 𝑚3
● 𝑽𝒐𝒊𝒅 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐, 𝒆𝒐 = = = 𝟎. 𝟔𝟒𝟏𝟒
𝑽𝒔 3.0089×105 𝑚3

● 𝑫𝒆𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑺𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝑺𝒓 = 𝒆𝒐 . 𝒘. 𝑮𝒔 = 𝟎. 𝟔𝟒𝟏𝟒 × 𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟒𝟐𝟗 × 𝟐. 𝟒𝟗 = 𝟏%

Sample Calculation
For 100kPa
● Thickness Change = Initail Dial Reading - Final Dial Reading = 0 mm - 1.885 mm =
1.885 mm
● Change in Pressure 𝛥𝑃 = 100𝑘𝑃𝑎 − 100𝑘𝑃𝑎 = 0 𝑘𝑃𝑎
● Height of Sample, H = 𝐻𝑜 − 𝛥𝐻 = 20 𝑚𝑚 − 1.885 𝑚𝑚 = 18.115 𝑚𝑚
𝛥𝐻 (1) 18.115 (1)
● Volume Compressibility Coefficient, 𝑚𝑣 = = =0
𝐻𝑜 𝛥𝑃 20 0
Sample Calculation
For 100kPa
20 𝑚𝑚 + 20 𝑚𝑚 +20 𝑚𝑚 +20 𝑚𝑚 +20 𝑚𝑚 +20 𝑚𝑚
● Average thickness, 𝐻𝑜 = = 20 𝑚𝑚
6
𝐻𝑜 20 𝑚𝑚
● Drain Length, 𝑑 = = = 10 𝑚𝑚
2 2

𝑻𝒊𝒎𝒆𝟐 𝑴𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒅 :
From the graph, √𝑡90 = √1.45 min = 𝑡90 = 2.103 𝑚𝑖𝑛
0.848𝑑2 0.848(10 𝑚𝑚)
● 𝐶𝑣 = 𝑡90
= 2.103 𝑚𝑖𝑛
= 0 𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟

● 𝑘 = 𝐶𝑣 ⋅ 𝑚𝑣 ⋅ 𝛾𝑤 = 0 ⋅ 0 ⋅ 9.81 = 0

Log Time Method:

From the graph, 𝑡50 = 10.2 𝑚𝑖𝑛
0.197𝑑2 0.197(10 𝑚𝑚)
● 𝐶𝑣 = = = 0 𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟
𝑡50 10.2 𝑚𝑖𝑛

● 𝑘 = 𝐶𝑣 ⋅ 𝑚𝑣 ⋅ 𝛾𝑤 = 0 ⋅ 0 ⋅ 9.81 = 0
 Pressure (kPa) Change in Height of Solid, Height of Void Ratio,
Thickness, Hs (mm) Sample 𝐻 = e = (H/𝐻𝑠 ) - 1
𝛥𝐻 (mm) 𝐻𝑜 − 𝛥𝐻 (mm)

100 1.885 11.3355 18.115 0.598

200 0.257 11.3355 19.743 0.742

400 0.307 11.3355 19.693 0.737

800 0.260 11.3355 19.740 0.741

1600 0.133 11.3355 19.867 0.753

800 0.03 11.3355 19.970 0.762

Sample Calculation
For 100kPa
𝑉𝑠 (3.0089×10−5 ) ×109 𝑚𝑚3
● Height of Solid, 𝐻𝑠 = = = 11.3355 𝑚𝑚
𝐴 2463.01 𝑚𝑚2

● Height of Sample, 𝐻 = 𝐻𝑜 − 𝛥𝐻 = 20 mm - 1.885 mm = 18.115 mm

𝐻 11.3355 𝑚𝑚
● Void Ratio Void, e = −1= = 0.598
𝐻𝑠 18.115 𝑚𝑚
DAY 1- Pressure of 100kPa
Graph of Dial Reading vs Sqrt Time

From the graph, the yellow line is √𝑡90 = √1.45 min . Therefore, 𝑡90 = 2.103 𝑚𝑖𝑛.

Graph of Dial Reading vs Sqrt Time

From the graph, the yellow line is 𝑡50 = 10.2 𝑚𝑖𝑛

Day 2 - Pressure of 200kPa

Graph Dial Reading vs Sqrt Time

From the graph, the yellow line is √𝑡90 = √7.3 min . Therefore, 𝑡90 = 53.290 𝑚𝑖𝑛.

Graph Dial Reading vs Time (log scale)

From the graph, the yellow line is 𝑡50 = 10.4 𝑚𝑖𝑛

Day 3 - Pressure of 400kPas

Graph Dial Reading vs Sqrt Time

From the graph, the yellow line is √𝑡90 = √2.7 min . Therefore, 𝑡90 = 7.29 𝑚𝑖𝑛.

Graph Dial Reading vs Time (log scale)

From the graph, the yellow line is 𝑡50 = 6.2 𝑚𝑖𝑛

Day 4 - Pressure of 800kPa
Graph Dial Reading vs Sqrt Time

From the graph, the yellow line is √𝑡90 = √1.1 min . Therefore, 𝑡90 = 1.21 𝑚𝑖𝑛.

Graph Dial Reading vs Time (log scale)

From the graph, the yellow line is 𝑡50 = 0.9 𝑚𝑖𝑛

Day 5 - Pressure of 1600kPa

Graph Dial Reading vs Sqrt Time

From the graph, the yellow line is √𝑡90 = √1.3 min . Therefore, 𝑡90 = 1.69 𝑚𝑖𝑛.

Graph Dial Reading vs Time (log scale)

From the graph, the yellow line is 𝑡50 = 10.1 𝑚𝑖𝑛

Day 6 - Pressure of -800kPa (Unload)

Graph Dial Reading vs Sqrt Time

From the graph, the yellow line is √𝑡90 = √3.8 min . Therefore, 𝑡90 = 14.44 𝑚𝑖𝑛.

Graph Dial Reading vs Time (log scale)

From the graph, the yellow line is 𝑡50 = 4.5 𝑚𝑖𝑛

Graph of e vs Pressure, 𝜎′

From the graph, the pre-consolidation pressure, 𝜎′ obtain is 532𝑘𝑁/𝑚2

𝛥𝑒
Therefore, the Compression Index, 𝐶𝑐 = 𝑙𝑜𝑔(𝑝2−𝑝1)
0.742−0.737
= 𝑙𝑜𝑔(400−200) = 0.002173
6.0 DISCUSSION

When building a structure on a soil, it is crucial to determine how much of the soil mass
has settled down. A key factor in determining the compressibility of soil mass is the consolidation
properties of the soil, such as the compression index Cc and coefficient of consolidation cv.
Compression index Cc is used to estimate settlement. Besides, the time needed for a specific degree
of compression (rate of settlement) to occur is predicted using the coefficient of consolidation (cv).
Furthermore, recompression index Cr, and preconsolidation pressure, 'c are the other
consolidation aspects of soil which are important for estimating the compressibility manners of
the soil mass.

Taylor’s square root of time fitting methods and Casagrande's logarithm of time fitting
method are both widely acknowledged as being the industry standard for determining CV. From
the calculation, the value of Cv obtained from Taylor’s square root of time fitting methods is 0.403
𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟 for 100kPa,0.016 𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟 for 200kPa ,0.116 𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟 for 400kPa, 0.701 𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟
for 800kPa ,0.502𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟 for 1600kPa, and 0.059 𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟 for 800kPa. While the value of Cv
obtained from Casagrande's logarithm of time fitting method are 0.1912 𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟 for 100kPa,
0.1875 𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟 for 200kPa, 0.3146 𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟 for 400kPa, 2.1672 𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟 for 800kPa,
0.1931 𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟 for 1600 kPa, and 0.4334 𝑚2 / 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟 for 800kPa. The values are considerably
small. Therefore, the required time for a given amount of compression to occur is slow. Other than
that, Coefficient of Permeability,k obtained for both methods is depending on the shape of the
particles,diameter of particles and void ratio. In addition, the small value of k gives the low velocity
of the water through soils.

Based on the Graph of e vs Pressure, 𝜎′ , the value of pre-consolidation pressure, 𝜎′ is .

From that, the compression index is calculated, 0.002173. The clay is poorly graded as it does
not lie between the range of 0.258 to 0.968. And usually for the grain course soil that has a high
permeability flow occurs very rapidly, while for finer grains soil that has low permeability, the
flow process takes a longer time .

The stages of soil sediments and their behavior, as well as the importance of understanding them:
 Firstly, deposition is normally how soil sediments are generated. When eroded rock,
mineral, biological, or other material fragments are carried by the wind, water, or ice and
eventually land on the Earth's surface, this happens. Deposition can occur in a wide range of
habitats, including lake beds, oceans, riverbeds, and even on land.

Secondly, compaction. The sediments are subjected to compaction after being deposited.
By applying pressure to the soil, compaction reduces its volume and enables water and air to move
out from between the soil particles. Compaction can happen naturally as a result of the weight of
the sediments above it or as a result of human activity like farming or construction.

Thirdly, consolidation. After compaction, a time-dependent procedure called consolidation

takes place. Since it is caused by the weight of the underlying sediments, it includes the slow
ejection of water from the gaps between soil particles. The soil's volume and density drop as the
water is driven out and the soil particles draw closer to one another. The long-term consolidation
might go on for years or even decades before it is finished.

Fourthly, settlement. The lowering of the ground underneath a construction is often

referred to as settlement. It may happen for a number of reasons, involving the weight of the
building, the properties of the soil, and the presence of water. There are basically two categories
of settlement which are consolidation settlement, and immediate settlement :

1. Immediate settlement:

As a result of the soil being compressed under the load that is placed on it, this sort
of settlement happens practically soon after the construction of a building. The size
and distribution of the load as well as the tensile strength of the soil are influencing
factors.

2. Settlement after consolidation

Settlement after consolidation is a long-term procedure that happens as a result of

the ejection of water from the soil during consolidation. If not sufficiently taken
into account during the planning and building process, it might result in gradual
 and continual settlement over a long period of time, which could cause damage to
structures.

It is essential for understanding the stages and behaviors of soil sediments for several reasons:

1. Structure-damaging factors such as cracks in walls, floors, or foundations may arise from
uneven foundation movement brought on by soil settlement. Engineers who are
knowledgeable on soil sediments can determine the potential dangers of settlement and
take the necessary precautions to reduce them, such as using suitable foundation systems
or putting ground improvement strategies into practice.
2. Engineers can analyze a possible settling of the soil under the weight of a building with the
proper understanding of soil sediment behavior. The soil's compaction, consolidation, and
settlement features can be identified by examining its characteristics, which will guarantee
the integrity of the structure.
3. Planning construction activities can be helped by understanding the behavior of soil
sediments. For the purpose of reducing potential settlement-related problems, it enables
engineers to choose proper construction strategies, pick suitable equipment, and create
construction timelines.

Discuss the factors affecting the Consolidation

Consolidation is particularly visible when a building stands on a layer of soil with low
stiffness and permeability, such as coastal clay, resulting in significant settling over time.
Consolidation frequently creates technical risk in land reclamation, embankment
construction, and tunnel and basement excavation in clay.

Aside from that, the size of the consolidating pressure and its distribution over the thickness
of the layer. The consolidation of the layer will be greater if the thickness of the clay layer
is greater due to self-overburden pressure.

Advantages of Consolidation Test

1. Quality Control
 Consolidation tests are used in construction projects as a quality control tool.

2. Soil Classification

Based on these properties, consolidation tests can help classify soils.

3. The Casagrande and Taylor Method which is used to identified Cv.

Both methods have the advantage of providing a visual representation of the

consolidation process as the test progresses. The secondary compression
component of the consolidation curve affects the Casagrande approach, resulting in
a lower value of Cv. However, Taylor's technique is influenced by the initial
compression phase of the consolidation curve, which raises the value of Cv.

Disadvantages of Consolidation Test

1. Time Consuming

Consolidation tests take longer since they need to record settlement over a long
period of time and apply pressure to soil samples gradually. According to the kind
of soil and sample thickness, the consolidation procedure can take weeks or even
months to finish.

2. Cost

Consolidation tests can be expensive to perform, mostly because of the time and
specialized supplies and skilled employees that are required.

3. Sample Disturbance

The test results might vary from in-situ behavior depending on how the soil
structure and stress conditions were during sampling and sample preparation.
7.0 CONCLUSION

The compression index, which is the slope of the linear element of the void ratio,
is widely used to determine settlement caused by loads. We calculated that the compression
index was 0.002173. In this scenario, the pre-consolidation pressure is 532 𝑘𝑁/𝑚2 .
Eventually, the consolidation test is important for determining the rate of soil settlement
on-site. Settlement endangers the building's safety.
8.0 APPENDIX

Collection of soil sample. Mixing of soil sample to desired water content.

Filling of soil sample into mold for compaction. Tamping of soil specimen.

Setting up of reinforcement cell. Placement of cells to the top of loading device.

 Consolidation apparatus (consolidation cell, dial gauges, and loading device)

Addition of loading to the specimen. Data record of time and dial reading.

9.0 REFERENCES

1. All the Science, (2023). What Is a Consolidation Test? All The Science.
https://www.allthescience.org/what-is-a-consolidation-test.htm
2. Rolf L., (1986). Consolidation of Soft Soils. Swedish Geotechnical Institute. Report No.
29. http://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2:1299960/FULLTEXT01.pdf
 UK 2 DIRECT SHEAR TEST (SHEAR BOX)

1.0 INTRODUCTION
In this laboratory activity, the students need to know the shear strength of a soil. It is the maximum
resistance to shearing stresses. It is usually considered to be equal to the shear stress at failure on
the failure plane. The shear strength of soil mainly consists of the resistance due to interlocking of
particles and friction between individual particles at their contact point i.e., internal friction and
the resistance due to inter particle forces which tend to hold the particles together in a soil mass,
what is called cohesion.

2.0 OBJECTIVE
To determine the shear strength characteristics of soil using direct shear box apparatus.

3.0 APPARATUS

Shear Box apparatus.

4.0 PROCEDURES

1. Find the volume of the space assigned for sample in the shear box, i.e., measure length
and width of the shear box and height from lower grid plate to mark for upper grid plate
and calculate volume, V.

2. Calculate weight of the soil required to obtain desired density of soil sample in the shear
box i.e., W = V x Υ.

3. Place the grid plate on the base plate such that the serrations of the grid plate are at right
angles to the direction of the shear. Tighten the locking screws.
4. Pour the weighted sand carefully into the shear box in two or three layers and tamp each
layer with the wooden piece to obtain the desired density.

5. Place the upper grid plate on the soil with serrations of grid plate at right angles to the
direction of shear.

6. Keep the loading pad on the top grid plate.

7. Choose a suitable strain rate and select the gear accordingly.

8. Position the loading frame on the top of the loading pad.

9. Fix the dial gauges to measure change in thickness and deformation of the specimen (if
required).

10. Make sure that the proving ring to measure the shear force is in contact with the shear
box.

11. Set proving ring dial gauge and deformation dial gauge to zero.

12. Apply the required normal stress depending on design requirements.

13. Remove the locking screws.

14. Raise the upper half of the shear box by about 1.0mm above the lower half for free
movement by turning spacing screws.

15. Apply the shear force at the selected strain rate to failure or until 20% longitudinal
displacement, whichever occurs earlier.
16. Record the shear force reading (proving ring reading) longitudinal displacement and
change in thickness of specimen, if required until failure of the sample occurs.

17. Remove the dial gauges, loading frame, loading pad etc. and remove the sample from the
shear box.

18. Repeat step (3) to (16) on three more specimens with the same initial condition but at
different normal stresses applied.
5.0 RESULT AND CALCULATION

Size of the box 0.06 × 0.06

Area of the box (𝑚2 ) 3.6 × 10−3

Specimen Thickness (m) 0.0244

Specimen Volume (𝑚3 ) 1.08 × 10−4

Soil Specimen Mass (kg) 0.170

Bulk Density (kg/𝑚3 ) 1574.074

Water content (%) 0

Dry Density (kg/𝑚3 ) 1574.074

Normal Stress 1 (kPa) 1.39

Normal Stress 2 ( kPa) 2.78

Normal Stress 3 (kPa) 4.17

Shearing Rate (mm/sec) 1.5

 Normal Load: 0.05 kN (5kg)
Normal Stress: 13.89 kN/𝒎𝟐

Shape
Strain ε %
Shear Stress (P/A)
Changing
Horizontal Gauge Shear Force, P (kN/m2)
Reading (kN) ε = ΔL/L
ΔH (mm) ΔL
(mm) (%)

0.1 0.0002 0.0557 20

1 0.3333

0.2 0.0005 0.1298 40

2 0.6667

0.0106 2.9484 60
4 3 1.0000

0.0186 5.1733 80
7 4 1.3333

9.8 0.0261 7.2498 100

5 1.6667

11.6 0.0309 8.5845 5 120 2.0000

13 0.0346 9.6227 5 140 2.3333
14.2 0.0378 10.5124 5 160 2.6667
15.2 0.0405 11.2539 4 180 3.0000
16.3 0.0435 12.0695 3 200 3.3333
17.2 0.0459 12.7368 1 220 3.6667

For reading 1:

P = a + bx + cx2

where,

a = −0.0000666131
𝑏 = 0.00267034
c = −0.0000000368163

Shear Force, P = -0.0000666131 + (0.00267034 x 0.1) – (0.0000000368163x 0. 12)

= 0.0002 𝑘𝑁

𝑆ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑆𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠 = 0.0002/0.0036 = 0.0557 kN/𝑚2

𝑆𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑖𝑛, 𝜀 (%) = (20/60)×100 = 0.3333%

 Normal Load: 0.15 kN (10kg)
Normal Stress: 27.78 kN/𝒎𝟐
Shape
Strain ε %
Shear Stress
Changing
Horizontal Shear Force (P) kN (P/A) (kN/m2)
Gauge Reading ε = ΔL/L
ΔH (mm) ΔL
(mm) (%)

6.5 0.0173 4.8025 20

1 0.3333

15.2 0.0405 11.2539 40

2 0.6667

0.0491 13.6264 60
18.4 4 1.0000

0.0549 15.2574 80
20.6 5 1.3333

23.2 0.0619 17.1848 100

6 1.6667

25.8 0.0688 19.1121 6 120 2.0000

27.4 0.0731 20.2981 6 140 2.3333
28.8 0.0768 21.3357 5 160 2.6667
30.2 0.0805 22.3734 4 180 3.0000
31 0.0827 22.9663 3 200 3.3333
31.6 0.0843 23.4109 2 220 3.6667
32.8 0.0875 24.3003 1 240 4.0000
33.2 0.0885 24.5967 1 260 4.3333
33.8 0.0901 25.0413 2 280 4.6667
34.2 0.0912 25.3378 4 300 5.0000
34.6 0.0923 25.6342 6 320 5.3333

For reading 2:
P = a + bx + cx2

where,

a = −0.0000666131
𝑏 = 0.00267034
c = −0.0000000368163

Shear Force = −0.0000666131 + 0.00267034 x 6.5 − 0.0000000368163x 6.52

= 0.0173 𝑘𝑁

𝑆ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑆𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠 = 0.0173/0.0036 = 4.8025 kN/𝑚2

𝑆𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑖𝑛, 𝜀 % =(20/60)×100 = 0.3333%

 Normal Load: 0.15kN (15kg)
Normal Stress: 41.67 kN/𝒎𝟐

Shape
Strain ε %
Shear Stress
Changing
Horizontal Shear Force (P) kN (P/A) (kN/m2)
Gauge Reading ε = ΔL/L
ΔH (mm) ΔL
(mm) (%)

24 0.0640 17.7779 20
1 0.3333

28 0.0747 20.7428 40
2 0.6667

0.0394 10.9573 60
14.8 4 1.0000

0.0608 16.8883 80
22.8 6 1.3333

27.8 0.0741 20.5946 100

8 1.6667

31.4 0.0837 23.2627 10 120 2.0000

34.8 0.0928 25.7824 11 140 2.3333
36.6 0.0976 27.1163 12 160 2.6667
40.8 0.1088 30.2283 12 180 3.0000
42.2 0.1126 31.2656 12 200 3.3333
43.4 0.1158 32.1547 12 220 3.6667
44.4 0.1184 32.8955 12 240 4.0000
45 0.1200 33.3400 11 260 4.3333
45.6 0.1216 33.7845 11 280 4.6667

For reading 3:

P = a + bx + cx2
where,

a = −0.0000666131
𝑏 = 0.00267034
c = −0.0000000368163

Shear Force = −0.0000666131 + 0.00267034 x 24 − 0.0000000368163x 242

= 0.0640 𝑘𝑁

𝑆ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑆𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑠 = 0.0640/0.0036 = 17.7779 kN/𝑚2

𝑆𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑖𝑛, 𝜀 % =(20/60)×100 = 0.3333%

 Test Number Normal Load, Normal Shear Stress Strain during
kN Stress,σn( kN/m2) during Failure,τ failure, ε %
(kN/m2)

1 0.05 13.89 11.2539 3.0000

2 0.1 27.78 21.3357 2.6667

3 0.15 41.67 33.34 4.3333

For Test number 1:

Normal load: 0.05kN

Normal stress, σn: 0.05/0.0036 = 13.89kN/𝑚2

Shear force during failure: 0.0405kN

Shear stress during failure, τf: 0.0405/0.0036= 11.2539kN/𝑚2

Friction angle, ∅′: tan-1 (τf / σn)

tan-1 (11.2539 / 13.89)
39.01°
For Test number 2:

Normal load: 0.10kN

Normal stress, σn: 0.10/0.0036 = 27.78kN/𝑚2

Shear force during failure: 0.0768kN

Shear stress during failure, τf: 0.0768/0.0036= 21.3357kN/𝑚2

Friction angle, ∅′: tan-1 (τf / σn)

tan-1 (21.3357 / 27.78)
37.53°
For Test number 3:

Normal load: 0.15kN

Normal stress, σn: 0.15/0.0036 = 41.67kN/𝑚2

Shear force during failure: 0.1200kN

Shear stress during failure, τf: 0.1200/0.0036= 33.4400kN/𝑚2

Friction angle, ∅′: tan-1 (τf / σn)

tan-1 (33.4400 / 41.67)
38.75°

A. Graph Shear Stress vs Strain

B. Graph Shear Stress during Failure vs Normal Stress

C. Graph ΔH vs Strain
6.0 DISCUSSION

The direct shear test is easy to execute, but it has several drawbacks. The result's dependability
may be called into doubt since the soil is not permitted to fail along the weakest plane but is pushed
to fail along the shear box's plane of the split. Furthermore, the shear stress distribution throughout
the specimen's shear surface is not uniform. Despite these drawbacks, the direct shear test is the
most basic and cost-effective test for dry or saturated sandy soil.

If the soil sample is completely or partially soaked, perforated metal plates and porous stones are
put beneath and above it to promote unrestricted drainage. Solid metal plates are utilized when the
sample is dry. Through the box's lid, a load normal to the plane of shearing can be applied to the
soil sample. Sand and gravel tests may be done rapidly and are generally done dry because water
does not greatly impact the drained strength. For clays, the shearing rate must be set carefully to
avoid excessive pore pressures. Shear stress is gradually introduced horizontally as a vertical
normal force is supplied to the sample, causing the two parts of the box to move relative to one
another. The shear load is assessed in conjunction with the shear displacement. The change in
sample thickness is also assessed. A variety of soil samples are tested under various vertical loads,
and the shear stress at failure is shown versus the normal stress for each test. The total and effective
stresses will be the same if there is no extra pore water pressure in the soil. The failure envelope
may be calculated using the stresses at failure.

The interface friction angle increases as sand density decreases because the interfered friction
angle is directly influenced by sand density along the same length as the shear box. When the
contact is typically smooth, the shear-strain curves of loose and thick sand both display strain-
hardening features. Strain softening will occur at rough contacts in thick sand. Sand that is both
loose and thick often loses volume over the cycle. The initial loading step is comparable to static
loading.The shear shrinkage of each cycle is generally modest and increases as dynamic stress
increases. Furthermore, the cumulative normal deformation under dynamic loading increases in
proportion to the normal stress.
Loose sands often expand during shearing, but thick sands typically decrease in volume. A void
ratio exists at which either volume expansion or contraction happens. The void ratio is referred to
as the "critical void ratio" in this context. During shearing, the movement of the vertical dial gauge
can be utilized to identify whether there has been expansion or contraction.

Several safeguards can be taken during the experiment, including:

1. During the drained tests, the shearing velocity must be modest enough to allow virtually
full dissipation of excess pore pressure.
2. The shearing rate must be slow enough to minimize pore pressure accumulation during
undrained testing.
3. Sample must be handled carefully during placement.
4. The grid plate's grooves must be normal to the direction of shear strain.
5. The upper part of the shear box must be gently raised without upsetting the sample, which
might result in fractures.

The advantages of direct shear test:

● Easy to prepare the sample.

● The drainage is quick and the pore pressure dissipates very rapidly because the thickness
of the sample is relatively small.
● Consolidated- undrained and drained tests take a small period of time.
● For conducting drained tests on cohesionless soils, the direct shear test is ideally suited for
this.
● The apparatus used in this test is cheap.

The disadvantage of direct shear test: Only at the failure, the stress condition is known.
● On the failure plane, the stress distribution is not uniform.
● As the test progress, the area under shear gradually decreases
7.0 CONCLUSION

To highlight the influence of limitations on measurements, the results of unreinforced direct shear
experiments on sand are provided. A symmetrical direct shear test design is preferred based on the
data and theoretical considerations of the applied force in the test. The link between sand shearing
resistances and dilatancy is exploited to design a novel direct shear test methodology. The analysis
is intended to provide an impartial check on conventional analyses as well as the consistency of
results from direct shear testing. As a result, the symmetrical direct shear test is a useful tool for
determining the plane strain and direct shear angles of friction for sand, as well as the angle of
dilation. In terms of strength anisotropy, the observed plane strain shearing resistance nearly
matches the lowest value. It is suggested that a simple modification be made to the conventional
laboratory direct shear equipment, as well as ideas for analyzing standard test results.

In the final analysis, the experiment that we conducted accomplished the experiment's goal of
evaluating the shear strength characteristics of soil utilizing the direct shear box. It is seen when
we extract the shear strength parameters of soil, c′, and the angle of internal friction, ′, using a
direct shear device from the graph of shear stress vs normal stress. We can then calculate the shear
strength of the soil to ascertain the property of the soil at the spot. As previously stated, shear
strength is a critical attribute of soils. Geotechnical engineers utilize the idea to estimate foundation
carrying capacity, analyze the stability of retaining walls, slopes, and embankments, and plan and
build roadway and airport pavements.

This test is used to determine the failure strength of a certain surface. The shear box test, on the
other hand, is useful for determining the shear strength of soil on the surface, which may be
obtained by other experiments. A shear box is one type of test used to determine soil shear strength.
The goal of this test is to determine the failure strength of a surface.
8.0 APPENDIX

Placement of upper grid plate to the specimen. Keep the loading plate on top grid plate.

Selection of suitable strain rate and gear. Position of loading frame on top of loading pad.

Fixing of dial gauges to measure deformation. Ensure proving ring is in contact with shear box.
 Capturing of data for data calculation.

9.0 REFERENCES

1. Gan, J. K. M., Fredlund, D. G., & Rahardjo, H. (1988). Determination of the shear strength
parameters of an unsaturated soil using the direct shear test. Canadian Geotechnical
Journal, 25(3), 500-510.
2. Takada, N. (1993). Mikasa's direct shear apparatus, test procedures and results. Geotechnical
Testing Journal, 16(3), 314-322.
 UK 3 SOIL STRENGTH TEST (TRIAXIAL TEST)

1.0 INTRODUCTION
The most flexible method to determine the shear strength of soil and determining its cohesion (c)
and angle of internal friction (φ) is the triaxial shear test. Any type of soil can be used, and it can
measure both the total and effective stress parameters. Pore water pressure and volume variations
can be precisely measured, and drainage conditions can be managed. In this test, the failure plane
is not forced, and the failure plane's stress distribution is rather uniform. Specimens may swell or
fail on any brittle plane.
The three main triaxial experiments carried out in the lab each allow for the observation of the soil
response for various engineering applications. The quickest and easiest test is the unconsolidated
undrained (UU) test. Only the total stresses are controlled and recorded while the soil specimens
are loaded. This makes it possible to figure out the undrained shear strength, cu, which can be used
to evaluate the soil stability in the near term (for example, during or right after a construction
project). Although remoulded sand samples can also be evaluated, cohesive soil specimens are
typically used for the test. The consolidated drained (CD) test offers the strength parameters
measured under effective stress control and defines the long-term loading response. When using
cohesive soil, it can take a while to finish since the shear rate needs to be modest enough to allow
for minuscule variations in pore water pressure. The most popular triaxial approach is the
consolidated undrained (CU) test because it provides for a faster rate of shearing than the CD test
and allows for the determination of strength parameters based on the effective stresses. This is
done by keeping track of the change in excess pore pressure that happens while the specimen is
sheared. The fundamentals of the UU triaxial test are taught in this guidebook.

2.0 OBJECTIVE
To determine the soil strength parameters and the characteristics of soil deformation.

3.0 APPARATUS
• Triaxial test setup
• Sample tubes
• Rubber ring
 • Open ended cylindrical section
• Weighing balance
• Steel ruler
• Wire saw
• Palette knife
• Weighing balance

4.0 PROCEDURE
1. The samples were compressed into the mold in 10 layers with 10 tamps per layer.
2. The membrane was placed on the membrane expander or, if is to be rolled onto the
specimen, the membrane was placed onto the cap or base.
3. 3 sets of samples with measurement 63.5mm height x 38mm diameter was prepared. Then,
3 sets of samples were measured and weighed.
4. The specimen was placed on the base.
5. The rubber was placed around the specimen using the mold by applying suction.
6. The cap and base were sealed with O-rings or other positive seals at each end.
7. The membrane was tucked upwards to cover the O-rings.
8. The tubes were wrapped around the specimen and the loading cap was inserted in the
membrane.
9. The membrane was secured with the O-rings, then the membrane was pulled down to
cover the rings.
10. The chamber was placed in position in the axial loading device.
11. The axial load piston brought into contact with the specimen cap several times to permit
proper seating and alignment of the piston with the cap.
12. During testing, be careful to align the axial loading device, the axial load measuring
device, and the triaxial chamber to prevent the application of a lateral force to the piston.
13. The pressure maintaining and measurement device was attached and the piston to the
chamber was aligned. The steel marble was placed.
14. The fasteners were rotated to bring the piston closer to the chamber.
15. Before allowing water into the chamber, the pressure was released from the water source
(140,280,420 kN/m2).
 16. The necessary valves were opened to allow the passage of water into chamber.
17. The pressure maintaining and measurement device was adjusted to the desired chamber
pressure and the pressure was applied to the chamber fluid.
18. The load and deformation values were recorded from 2% to 20%. The steps were
repeated at least for 3 sets of samples, but the applied pressure allows Mohr’s circle was
plotted.

5.0 DATA AND CALCULATION

Sample Initial Dry Mass Moisture Void Cell Sample Area,
Mass of of Sample Content, w Ratio, e Pressure Size, H x φ A0
Sample (g) (g) (%) (kN/m2) (mm) (mm2)
1 135.3 101.7 33.04 0.854 140 64.4 x 37.7 1116.28
2 131.6 103.4 27.27 0.679 280 63.8 x 37.6 1110.36
3 131.2 106.6 23.08 0.703 420 61.6 x 37.8 1122.21

Strain Dial Gauge Dial Gauge Indicate Dial Gauge Indicate Dial Gauge Indicate
Reading Reading Reading Reading
(Sample 1) (Sample 2) (Sample 3)
20 18.0 25.0 5.0
40 23.0 34.0 12.0
60 25.0 38.0 19.0
80 26.5 40.0 28.0
100 27.0 43.0 36.0
120 28.0 45.0 46.0
140 29.5 46.0 53.0
160 30.0 47.0 58.0
180 31.0 48.0 61.0
200 32.0 50.0 64.0
220 33.0 51.0 66.0
240 34.0 52.0 69.0
A. Sample A (Cell Pressure = 140 kN/m2)

Measured
Deformation Compression Force Axial Corrected
Strain Deviator
Gauge of Specimen, Gauge Force, Area, A
(%) Stress
Reading L (m) Reading P (kN) (m2)
(kPa)
20 0.0002 0.310559 18.0 0.036 359.44 100.16
40 0.0004 0.621118 23.0 0.046 179.72 255.95
60 0.0006 0.931677 25.0 0.050 119.81 417.31
80 0.0008 1.242236 26.5 0.053 89.86 589.80
100 0.0010 1.552795 27.0 0.054 71.89 751.16
120 0.0012 1.863354 28.0 0.056 59.91 934.78
140 0.0014 2.173913 29.5 0.059 51.35 1149.00
160 0.0016 2.484472 30.0 0.060 44.93 1335.40
180 0.0018 2.795031 31.0 0.062 39.94 1552.41
200 0.0020 3.105590 32.0 0.064 35.94 1780.54
220 0.0022 3.416149 33.0 0.066 32.68 2019.80
240 0.0024 3.726708 34.0 0.068 29.95 2270.18
B. Sample B (Cell Pressure = 280 kN/m2)

Measured
Deformation Compression Force Axial Corrected
Strain Deviator
Gauge of Specimen, Gauge Force, P Area, A
(%) Stress
Reading L (m) Reading (kN) (m2)
(kPa)
20 0.0002 0.313480 25.0 0.050 354.20 141.16
40 0.0004 0.626959 34.0 0.068 177.10 383.96
60 0.0006 0.940439 38.0 0.076 118.07 643.70
80 0.0008 1.253918 40.0 0.080 88.55 903.43
100 0.0010 1.567398 43.0 0.086 70.84 1213.99
120 0.0012 1.880878 45.0 0.090 59.03 1524.54
140 0.0014 2.194357 46.0 0.092 50.60 1818.16
160 0.0016 2.507837 47.0 0.094 44.28 2123.07
180 0.0018 2.821317 48.0 0.096 39.36 2439.27
200 0.0020 3.134796 50.0 0.100 35.42 2823.23
220 0.0022 3.448276 51.0 0.102 32.20 3167.66
240 0.0024 3.761755 52.0 0.104 29.52 3523.38
C. Sample C (Cell Pressure = 420 kN/m2)

Measured
Deformation Compression Force Axial Corrected
Strain Deviator
Gauge of Specimen, Gauge Force, Area, A
(%) Stress
Reading L (m) Reading P (kN) (m2)
(kPa)
20 0.0002 0.324675 5.0 0.010 345.64 28.93
40 0.0004 0.649351 12.0 0.024 172.82 138.87
60 0.0006 0.974026 19.0 0.038 115.21 329.82
80 0.0008 1.298701 28.0 0.056 86.41 648.07
100 0.0010 1.623377 36.0 0.072 69.13 1041.54
120 0.0012 1.948052 46.0 0.092 57.61 1597.03
140 0.0014 2.272727 53.0 0.106 49.38 2146.74
160 0.0016 2.597403 58.0 0.116 43.21 2684.87
180 0.0018 2.922078 61.0 0.122 38.40 3176.71
200 0.0020 3.246753 64.0 0.128 34.56 3703.27
220 0.0022 3.571429 66.0 0.132 31.42 4200.89
240 0.0024 3.896104 69.0 0.138 28.80 4791.10

D. MOHR CIRCLE

Test A B C
Cell Pressure (kPa) 140 280 420
Deviator Stress (kPa) 2270.18 3523.38 4791.10

CALCULATION:
1. Compression of specimen, L = Deformation Gauge x Mean Calibration

= 20 x 0.01
= 0.2 mm = 0.0002 m
𝐿
2. Strain = 𝐿 × 100 %
0
 0.0002
= × 100 %
0.0644

= 0.31%

3. Axial Force, P = Force Gauge x 0.002 (constant)

= 18.0 x 0.002
= 0.036 kN

𝐴0
4. Corrected Area, A = (𝐿0 −𝐿)
1−
𝐿0

1.11628
= (0.0644−0.0002)
1−
0.0644

= 359.44 m2

𝑃
5. Measured Deviator Stress = 𝐴 × 106

0.036
= × 106
359.44

= 100.16 kPa
6. Mohr Circle

For Test A:
Cell Pressure, φ3 = 140 kN/m2
φ 1 = Cell Pressure, φ3 + Deviator Stress
φ1 = 140 + 2270.18
φ1 = 2410.18 kPa

For Test B:
Cell Pressure, φ3 = 280 kN/m2
φ 1 = Cell Pressure, φ3 + Deviator Stress
φ1 = 280 + 3523.38
φ1 = 3803.38 kPa
 For Test C:
Cell Pressure, φ3 = 420 kN/m2
φ 1 = Cell Pressure, φ3 + Deviator Stress
φ1 = 420 + 4791.10
φ1 = 5211.10 kPa

A. Sample A (Cell Pressure = 140 kN/m2)

Graph Measured Deviator Stress againts Strain

2500.00
2270.18

2019.80
Measured Deviator Stress (kPa)

2000.00 1780.54
1552.41
1500.00 1335.40
1149.00
934.78
1000.00
751.16
589.80
417.31
500.00
255.95
100.16

0.00
0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 2.00 2.50 3.00 3.50 4.00
Strain (%)

Graph 1: Graph Measured Deviator Stress against Strain for Sample A

 Graph Axial Force against Strain
0.160
0.14
0.140 0.13 0.13
0.12
0.12
0.120 0.11
Axial Force, P (kN)

0.100 0.09

0.080 0.07
0.06
0.060
0.04
0.040 0.02
0.020 0.01

0.000
0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 2.00 2.50 3.00 3.50 4.00 4.50
Strain (%)

Graph 2: Graph Axial Force against Strain for Sample A

B. Sample B (Cell Pressure = 280 kN/m2)

Graph Measured Deviator Stress against Strain

4000.00
3523.38
3500.00 3167.66
Measured Deviator Stress (kPa)

3000.00 2823.23
2439.27
2500.00 2123.07
2000.00 1818.16
1524.54
1500.00 1213.99
903.43
1000.00 643.70
383.96
500.00 141.16

0.00
0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 2.00 2.50 3.00 3.50 4.00
Strain (%)

Graph 3: Graph Measured Deviator Stress against Strain for Sample B

 Graph Axial Force against Strain
0.120
0.104
0.100 0.102
0.100 0.094 0.096
0.090 0.092
0.086
0.080
0.076
Axial Force, P (kN)

0.080
0.068

0.060 0.050

0.040

0.020

0.000
0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 2.00 2.50 3.00 3.50 4.00
Strain (%)

Graph 4: Graph Axial Force against Strain for Sample B

C. Sample C (Cell Pressure = 420 kN/m2)

Graph Measured Deviator Stress against Strain

6000.00

4791.10
Measured Deviator Stress (kPa)

5000.00
4200.89

4000.00 3703.27
3176.71
3000.00 2684.87
2146.74
2000.00 1597.03
1041.54
1000.00 648.07
329.82
28.93 138.87
0.00
0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 2.00 2.50 3.00 3.50 4.00 4.50
Strain (%)
 Graph 5: Graph Measured Deviator Stress against Strain for Sample C

Graph Axial Force against Strain

0.160
0.14
0.140 0.13
0.13
0.12
0.12
0.120 0.11
Axial Force, P (kN)

0.100 0.09

0.080 0.07

0.06
0.060
0.04
0.040
0.02
0.020 0.01

0.000
0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 2.00 2.50 3.00 3.50 4.00 4.50
Strain (%)

Graph 6: Graph Axial Force against Strain for Sample C

D. MOHR CIRCLE

Graph 7: Graph Shear Stress against Normal Stress

6.0 DISCUSSION
Apart from issues with calibration and accurate reading of some measurement tools,
laboratory procedures were executed very well during this laboratory. Based on this experiment,
Sample C and Sample B were successful and provided data with good correlation, however,
Sample A is a definite outlier due to the improper seal around the specimen. This allowed the
sample to become partially saturated during the test, which appears to have given it a higher shear
stress at failure, and a steeper friction angle. This is to be expected because of surface tension
from the presence of water. A second error observed may have to do with improver calculation of
relative density for the first or second sample. The only logical explanation for this behaviour is
that an error was made in the initial calculation of relative density. If there was a mathematical
error, an improper weight of sand would be given, and an inaccurate relative density would be
obtained.
The advantages of triaxial shear test are the stress distribution on the plane of failure is
uniform. Next, the drainage conditions can be controlled. Other than that, the changes in the pore
pressure, as well as the volumetric changes, can be directly measured. This test also allows the
specimen to fail on the weakest plane and suitable for all types of soil, and it is highly desirable
for research works. Finally, the Mohr’s circle can be drawn for any shear condition and stage. The
disadvantages of triaxial shear stress are the strain conditions are generally not uniform. Next, the
consolidation of the soil sample in the test is isotropic but in actual practice it is anisotropic.

Graph Deviator Stress against Strain

6000.00

5000.00
Deviator Stress (kPa)

4000.00

3000.00

2000.00

1000.00

0.00
0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00
Strain (%)
Sample A Sample B Sampel C

Graph 8: Graph Measured Deviator Stress against Strain

 Graph Axial Force against Strain
0.16
0.14
Axial Force, P (kN)
0.12
0.10
0.08
0.06
0.04
0.02
0.00
0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00
Strain (%)
Sample A Sample B Sample C

Graph 9: Graph Axial Force against Strain

7.0 CONCLUSION
The conclusion for triaxial shear stress depends on the specific context and findings of the
analysis. Triaxial shear stress is a type of stress that occurs within a material when it is subjected
to forces that act in three perpendicular directions. It is commonly used in geotechnical engineering
and soil mechanics to evaluate the behavior and stability of soils under different loading
conditions.
The conclusion drawn from a triaxial shear stress test is typically based on the analysis of
the stress-strain relationship and the failure behavior of the soil sample. The test helps in
determining the strength characteristics and the shear strength parameters of the soil. Triaxial shear
stress tests provide valuable information about the shear strength properties of the soil, including
cohesion and angle of internal friction. The conclusion may involve determining these parameters
based on the stress-strain response and identifying the failure envelope.
The implications of the triaxial shear stress test results for engineering applications. This
could include recommendations for foundation design, embankment construction, retaining wall
design, or other geotechnical projects based on the soil’s shear strength parameters.
In conclusion, it’s important to note that the specific conclusion will vary depending on the
objectives of the test, the type of soil being analysed, and the project requirements. Consulting
with a geotechnical engineer or expert in the field is crucial for interpreting the results accurately
and making informed decisions.
8.0 APPENDIX

Tamping of soil specimen. .Specimen preparation from top,

middle, bottom of soil.

Placement of membrane Wrapping tubes around specimen

around the specimen. and insertion of loading cap.

Alignment of axial loading device, the

Placement of chamber in
axial load measuring device, and the
position of the loading device.
triaxial chamber during testing.
9.0 REFERENCES

1.Triaxial Shear Test on Soil | Lab Procedures | Advantages Disadvantages of Triaxial Shear
Test. https://dreamcivil.com/triaxial-shear-test/
2. Bishop, A. W., & Henkel, D. J. (1962). The measurement of soil properties in the triaxial test.