INTRODUCTION
Tests such as sieve analysis, liquid limits, and plastic limits are important in civil engineering because
they ascertain the nature of properties exhibited by soil. In sieve analysis, soil separates itself into
different sizes through a pile or stack of sieves, thus showing the nature of particle distribution in it. This
information is therefore important since it determines how the soil would behave when used in
construction. For instance, water drains well through larger particles, such as sand and gravel, but finer
particles, such as clay, hold onto the water, and thus it causes problems in stability.
The tests that have to do with the moisture content of the soil are the liquid limit test and the plastic
limit test. The liquid limit is that at which the soil begins to behave like a liquid, while the plastic limit is
that at which the soil begins breaking off into pieces. These tests are essential since they will show how
the soil will react when it is wet. Soils that have high liquid or plastic limits expand or shrink due to water
content, which might eventually cause damage to roads or buildings. If these values are known, then
civil engineers can decide if this soil needs treatment or must be replaced before construction.
To sum up, these tests provide important information to civil engineers so they can be assured the soil
will be solid and dependable for construction projects, whether it is foundations, roadways, or other
buildings.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the particle size distribution of soil through sieve analysis.
To classify the soil based on grain size and consistency.
To ascertain the moisture content at which the soil turns into liquid from plastic state, termed as
liquid limit.
To find the moisture content at which soil becomes plasticity and then begins to crumble,
termed as plastic limit.
Conclusion
Findings:
Sieve Analysis: The test result showed that the soil was composed of a mix of many sizes. Mainly, it was
noted that most of the soil components were made of gravel and sand. That does give a clue of how the
soil allows water to drain. For example, sandy soils allow the drainage of water very well, unlike clay,
which tends to hold the water, something that can be problematic for the building foundations.
Liquid Limit Test: The test found the moisture content at which soil transitions from its plastic state to
becoming liquid. The liquid limit of the soil was found to be 71 percent. Soils with a high value of liquid
limit become soft and unstable when moist, which may result in problems with construction if not
managed properly.
Plastic Limit Test: The plastic limit test gave the moisture content wherein the soil breaks apart once it is
rolled into thin threads. The plastic limit was 50 percent. That just shows us how much the soil can be
allowed to shrink or swell when it gets wet/dries out, which may result in cracks or movement in a
structure over time.
Conclusion:
These laboratory tests helped in giving us a good understanding of how the soil behaves. For example,
during sieve analysis, we had a good idea about the particle size of the soil and whether it would be able
to drain most or all of its water. Tests on liquid and plastic limits showed how the soil behaves when
exposed to changes in moisture levels. This helps in knowing if the soil shrinks, swells, or becomes
unstable when wet. This information would hence be of assistance in ensuring that the soil was safe and
suitable for the construction site and thereby prevented further problems such as cracking or failure of
the foundations.
Observation
Observations in Every Step of the Laboratory Activities:
Sieve Analysis:
Observation: During the test, we observed that the coarser particles like gravel and
sand settled on the upper sieves while the finer particles like silt and clay passed to
the lower sieves. Shaking of the sieves separates the particles very well.
Important Note: It should be ensured that the soil sample is thoroughly dry, as wet
soils would clump or produce wrong results. Also, ensure you shake the sieves
uniformly.
Liquid Limit Test:
Our observation is, upon addition of water into the soil, it started to be more fluid.
From the liquid limit apparatus, we saw that soil began to flow and the groove
closed following a few blows. Therefore, it demonstrated its critical point, indicating
where the soil transitioned from a plastic state to a liquid state.
Important Note: Sample the soil and water well to obtain a good reading. Apply
even blows to the cup, and equipment must be cleaned after each test to eliminate
contamination errors.
Plastic Limit Test:
Observation: When we made threads of the soil, it appeared that at a certain
moisture content, cracking and crumbling were appearing in the soil. This was when
the plastic limit was obtained.
Important Note: The soil should be rolled into thin, uniform threads of approximately
3 mm thickness in order to obtain the true reading of the plastic limit. The soil
should be rolled out on a clean surface so as not to contaminate it.
Important Notes in Performing Laboratory Tests:
Preparation: You must prepare your soil sample properly prior to running the tests.
For dry sieve analysis, your soil must be dried in the right manner, while for liquid
and plastic limit tests, there should only be the right amount of water.
Consistency: Consistency in the shaking, mixing, and operating of equipment would
ensure reliable results.
Accuracy: Take measurements in an accurate fashion and note the changing
behavior of the soil at each stage of the test. Minor errors in measurement would
result in false conclusions.
Cleanliness: Maintain the equipment clean and devoid of soil or any debris
generated between tests to prevent altering the results.