Method to Rapidly Assess the Index Properties of Fine-Grained Dredged Materials

Rapid assessment and characterization of very soft fine-grained soils may be desired in a field or laboratory situation when an estimate of soil properties is needed in advance of time-consuming standard laboratory procedures. For example, the need for rapid assessment may include geotechnical parameter estimation for preliminary design or jobsite quality control monitoring for specification compliance. One such method enabling parameter estimation or prediction consists of an adaptive technique called the “slump test” developed from a nongeotechnical materials test method. It is shown to be a viable tool for estimating index properties and remolded soil behavior. Correlations explored in this paper include water content, void ratio, Atterberg limits, and engineering behavior properties.