Bulk density values 1

[vincentch]

Hello,
For a calculation, I need to know the bulk density values of some soils. Unfortunatly, it wasn't asked to the subcontractor who didt the surveys. So now, the only data I have are : the type of soil (SM-SP) ; particle size distribution, the specific gravity, the moisture content, the Atterberg limits and SPT test results (N).
Is there any kind of relationship between all those data and the bulk density of the soil, or else, do some typical values could be found for a soil type.
I would be thankfull to hear from you soon.

Vincent (from FRANCE)

 

[iandig]

You should be able to determine the 'maximum' possible bulk density (i.e. very dense with zero air voids) from the moisture content and specific gravity, based on a zero % air voids content. You will need to assume the water has a density of 1.0 (1.0 Mg/m³), and multiply the MC (where an MC of 10% = 0.1) by the SG (in Mg/m³) and this should give you the volume of the water if no air was in the sample. Subtract the volume of the water from 1.0m³, and what you have left is the volume of the solids, and finally calculate tha mass of the material based on this new volume.
Then, if you assess the SPT values you should be able to get a 'feel' for the density of the material, i.e. N = 5 to 10 (loose), N = 10 to 30 (medium dense), N = 30 to 50 (Dense) and N > 50 (very dense).
It then comes down to assessing how dense the soil is, how much air voids will relate to this and what impact ths has on the final bulkd density. It will not be 100% accurate, but it should make it an estimate and not a guesstimate.

 

[fndn]

If N is between 10 and 30 use bulk density of 20 KN/M^3. As a check your moisture content should be less than 12% above the ground water table. You may get a liquid limit but still be NP for the Atterberg results.

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