Combined TDR and P-Wave Velocity Measurements for the Determination of In Situ Soil Density—Experimental Study

Abstract This paper summarizes a new nondestructive approach for the evaluation of soil density and water content. This new measurement methodology involves evaluating the dielectric permittivity and the P-wave velocity in soils as the water content is increased. These values are then related to the volumetric water content, porosity, and skeleton shear stiffness, which are needed to back-calculate the density and water content of the tested soil specimens. Experimental laboratory results are briefly summarized. These test results show a potential for developing a new device. Electronic equipment and sensors for the proposed device include a TDR system, miniature piezoelectric accelerometers, signal conditioner system, and oscilloscope for data acquisition.