Estimation of field compaction parameters

ABSTRACT: This paper describes the current Indian and Australian practices of the estimation of field compaction parameters (maximum dry unit weight and optimum moisture content) based on the laboratory compaction tests, which do not consider large-size particles of the field soil samples. The study indicates that in the absence of realistic estimation procedure, some pavements have failed due to the excessive settlement. A detailed derivation of improved expressions for determining the field compaction parameters is presented. The improved expressions would be useful for the pavements and earthworks and for developing the standards on the compaction tests for the field applications.