Lab Test
Grading of Soils

The Grading of Soils test determines the particle size distribution of a soil sample, which is essential for understanding its compaction properties, permeability, and suitability for construction purposes.

The Process

  1. Sample Preparation: A representative soil sample is collected and prepared for sieving.
  2. Sieving: The soil sample is passed through a series of standard sieves with varying mesh sizes. The soil particles are separated based on their size as they fall through the sieves.
  3. Weighing and Calculation: The amount of soil retained on each sieve is weighed. The results are used to calculate the percentage of soil passing through each sieve, which is then plotted on a grading curve.
  4. Analysis: The grading curve is analyzed to determine the soil’s classification and to assess its suitability for specific construction applications, such as foundations, roads, or embankments.

Why Is This Test Important?

  • Soil Classification: Helps classify soils based on their particle size distribution, which influences their suitability for different engineering applications.
  • Construction Suitability: Determines the soil’s compaction and permeability properties, essential for road construction, foundations, and earthworks.
  • Quality Control: Ensures that the soil meets the specifications for strength, stability, and drainage.

The Grading of Soils test is a key method for determining the characteristics of soil used in construction, ensuring materials meet the required standards. Contact us for expert testing services.

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Plastic Limit

Determination of the plastic limit of fine-grained soils in accordance with BS EN ISO 17892-12:2018+A2:2022.
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Particle Size Distribution

Determination of particle size distribution of aggregates using sieving in accordance with BS EN 933-1:2012.
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Sample Reduction

Sample reduction by riffle box, by quartering, or to a test portion of a specified mass within a small tolerance
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Dynamic Cone Penetration (TRL-DCP)

Rapid measurement of the in-situ strength of existing flexible pavements constructed with unbound materials.
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In-Situ California Bearing Ratio (CBR)

Penetration of soil with a plunger over a standard area. The harder the surface, the higher the CBR percentage.
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Constituents of Course Recycled Aggregates

Ensure the quality and compliance of recycled aggregates with our constituents analysis, supporting sustainable and reliable construction practices.
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Plasticity Index

A higher Plasticity Index indicates a greater range of water content where soil remains plastic, signifying higher compressibility and potential for settlement.
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Water Content

Determination of the water content of aggregates in accordance with BS EN 1097-5:2008.
BS 1377-2:2022
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In-Situ Bulk Density Nuclear Method

The in-situ bulk density nuclear method ensures soil compaction meets construction standards by measuring density and moisture directly on-site.
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Resistance to Fragmentation – Los Angeles Test

Subjects a coarse aggregate sample to abrasion, impact, and grinding.
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Lab Test
Grading of Soils

The Grading of Soils test determines the particle size distribution of a soil sample, which is essential for understanding its compaction properties, permeability, and suitability for construction purposes.

The Process

  1. Sample Preparation: A representative soil sample is collected and prepared for sieving.
  2. Sieving: The soil sample is passed through a series of standard sieves with varying mesh sizes. The soil particles are separated based on their size as they fall through the sieves.
  3. Weighing and Calculation: The amount of soil retained on each sieve is weighed. The results are used to calculate the percentage of soil passing through each sieve, which is then plotted on a grading curve.
  4. Analysis: The grading curve is analyzed to determine the soil's classification and to assess its suitability for specific construction applications, such as foundations, roads, or embankments.

Why Is This Test Important?

  • Soil Classification: Helps classify soils based on their particle size distribution, which influences their suitability for different engineering applications.
  • Construction Suitability: Determines the soil's compaction and permeability properties, essential for road construction, foundations, and earthworks.
  • Quality Control: Ensures that the soil meets the specifications for strength, stability, and drainage.

The Grading of Soils test is a key method for determining the characteristics of soil used in construction, ensuring materials meet the required standards. Contact us for expert testing services.