LABORATORY TEST # 1 GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS (ASTM D 422) (SIEVE ANALYSIS) full lab report

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Purpose: This test is performed to determine the percentage of different grain sizes contained within a soil. The mechanical or sieve analysis is performed to determine the distribution of the coar... ser, larger-sized particles, and the hydrometer method is used to determine the distribution of the finer particles. Standard Reference: ASTM D 422 - Standard Test Method for Particle-Size Analysis of Soils Significance: The distribution of different grain sizes affects the engineering properties of soil. Grain size analysis provides the grain size distribution, and it is required in classifying the soil. Equipment: Balance, Set of sieves, Cleaning brush, Sieve shaker Sieve Analysis: (1) Write down the weight of each sieve as well as the bottom pan to be used in the analysis. (2) Record the weight of the given dry soil sample. (3) Make sure that all the sieves are clean, and assemble them in the ascending order of sieve numbers (#4 sieve at top and #200 sieve at bottom). Place the pan below #200 sieve. Carefully pour the soil sample into the top sieve and place the cap over it. (4) Place the sieve stack in the mechanical shaker and shake for 10 minutes. (5) Remove the stack from the shaker and carefully weigh and record the weight of each sieve with its retained soil. In addition, remember to weigh and record the weight of the bottom pan with its retained fine soil. Data Analysis: Sieve Analysis: (1) Obtain the mass of soil retained on each sieve by subtracting the weight of the empty sieve from the mass of the sieve + retained soil, and record this mass as the weight retained on the data sheet. The sum of these retained masses should be approximately equals the initial mass of the soil sample. A loss of more than two percent is unsatisfactory [Show More]

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