compaction
COMPACTION Compaction is the application of mechanical energy to a soil to rearrange the particles and reduce the void ratio. 1 Purpose of Compaction : • The principal reason for compacting soil is to reduce subsequent settlement under working loads. • Compaction increases the shear strength of the soil. • Compaction reduces the voids ratio making it more difficult for water to flow through soil. This is important if the soil is being used to retain water such as would be required for an earth dam. • Compaction can prevent the build up of large water pressures that cause soil to liquefy during earthquakes. 2 . Factors affecting Compaction • Water content of the soil • The type of soil being compacted • The amount of compactive energy used 3. Field specifications : To control the soil propert