Improved expressions for field values of compaction test parameters

Abstract

In most compaction test procedures, depending on the size of the compaction mould, a fraction of the soil sample with particle sizes larger than a specific value is discarded. This fact limits the use of laboratory values of compaction test parameters, namely the optimum moisture content and the maximum dry unit weight, for field compaction of soils. This technical note provides improved expressions for determining the optimum moisture content and the maximum dry unit weight of held soil samples on the basis of laboratory compaction test results, which do not consider the larger particles of the field soil samples. The improved expressions would be useful for earthworks, and for developing standards for compaction tests for field applications.