Nuclear Densometer in Trenches

[henrytipple]

Hi,

I am reviewing some nuclear density testing that was carried out in trenches. I am pretty sure no trench calibration was carried out before this testing was done. Does anyone know of a paper that discusses the ammout of error that can be introduced into Nuclear Density readings when the trench calibration is not included? Or, does anyone know from experience.

Thanks

 

[Ron]

It depends on the material in which you are testing. The error can be small or large. More error is introduced in clayey materials and calcareous materials.

Troxler Instruments has some info on this.

 

[GeoPaveTraffic]

Trench width will also make a difference. The narrower the trench the more the error.

 

[bb29510]

I know moisture content are no where right on a gauge, seeing sometime 35% moisture when the actual moisture running 8%

 

[regonto]

The deaper you test using surface calibration, the bigger error on the readings(e.g. density going down with depth).
You have to calibrate every time your trench width and depth changes.