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. S
Where
CBR
design
=CBR design value given the reliability of the uniform section
x =average CBR value of the subgrade in the uniform section
k
dry
=
bulk
/ (1+w)
Hitchhikers Guide to Pavement Engineering: Prof Kim J enkins 8
Figure 4.7 Moisture versus density relationship
The achievable compaction is dependent on numerous factors including aggregate
grading, particle shape, particle angularity, plasticity, moisture content, compaction
energy etc. If the compaction energy is increased, not only will the dry density
increase but the optimum moisture content reduces. A family of curves can be
developed for a specific material that shows the changes in the moisture-density
relationship relative to the compaction energy, as shown in the figure below.
The influence of material gradation on compaction can be shown in a similar fashion.
In Figure 4.9 it is apparent that the highest density is achieved for well graded gravel
(GW), followed by well graded sand (SW), then low plasticity silt (ML), followed by
low plasticity clay (CL) and then high plasticity clay (CH).
Dry Density
d
(kg/m
3
)
Moisture Content (%)
OMC=x%
Max d
Proctor-compaction of
5 layers of equal blows
Hitchhikers Guide to Pavement Engineering: Prof Kim J enkins 9
Figure 4.8 Influence of Compaction Energy on the Moisture-Density
relationship (Craig)
From the relationship given in Figure 4.8, it can be seen that the dry density is a
function of the aggregate specific gravity (Gs) and moisture content (w) when the air
voids are zero (Va =0%).
Figure 4.9 Influence of Compaction Energy on the Moisture-Density
relationship (Craig)
DD=(1-Va/V).1000/(1/Gs+w)
Improve grading
Coarser grained
Hitchhikers Guide to Pavement Engineering: Prof Kim J enkins 10
It can be shown using the compaction moisture curve in an elementary fashion that
with increasing density it is possible to maintain the strength of a plastic soil material
in certain service conditions. Using Figure 4.10, it can be seen that 2 samples of the
same material compacted at 17% moisture content with different compaction efforts,
the material at lower density (less compaction) exceeds the plastic limit when
saturated and will lose strength-supporting properties. The same material compacted
to a higher level will probably remain stable. This also indicates that relationships can
be found between CBR, compaction level and void content. Dry density requirements
are so very important for practice, therefore.
A similar situation can be ascribed to asphalt mixes. Instead of water, bitumen is
used in these materials. The bitumen cannot evaporate or leach out of the material
as is the case with water in granular materials and soils. However, the same
principles in terms of fluids will be used in order to understand what happens during
compaction. This is dealt with in another chapter.
Figure 4.10 Advantage of higher compaction in terms of material plasticity
(Oglesby)
Field Compaction
Achieving optimum compaction in the field requires judicious selection of rollers. The
roller selection (weight and type) is primarily judged on the gradation of the material
and the depth of the layer to be compacted. Figure 4.11 provides a guideline for roller
selection. In addition to this selection, rolling techniques for subgrade usually involve
high amplitude, low frequency initial compaction to achieve greater depth of
penetration followed by low amplitude, high frequency compaction to densify the
upper part of the layer.
Dry
Density
Moisture Content
ZAV
17% 25%
High
Compaction
Low
Compaction
PL
Wetting after compaction
to saturation
PL Plastic Limit
Hitchhikers Guide to Pavement Engineering: Prof Kim J enkins 11
Figure 4.11 Guide to Roller Selection (Wirtgen)
References
Oglesby. Highway Subgrade Structure
Wirtgen. Cold Recycling Manual.