AASHTO T100
Full Name
AASHTO T100 – Standard Method of Test for Specific Gravity of Soils
Scope
AASHTO T100 is a standard test method used to determine the specific gravity of soil samples. Specific gravity is the ratio of the density of a substance to the density of water, and in the case of soil, it provides valuable information about its composition and engineering properties. This test method is applicable to soils consisting of particles smaller than 4.75 mm (No. 4 sieve).
Key aspects of AASHTO T100:
- Principle: the test involves using a pycnometer, a calibrated glass flask, to measure the mass and volume of a dried soil sample. The specific gravity is then calculated by dividing the mass of the soil by the mass of an equal volume of water.
- Procedure: the standard outlines a detailed procedure for preparing the soil sample, determining the mass of the empty pycnometer, filling the pycnometer with water and soil, and measuring the mass of the pycnometer with the soil-water mixture.
- Calculations: the specific gravity is calculated using the measured masses and the known density of water at the test temperature.
- Applications: the specific gravity of soil is used in various geotechnical engineering calculations, such as determining the void ratio, porosity, degree of saturation, and density of soil. It is also used in the design of earthworks, foundations, and other geotechnical structures.
Significance of AASHTO T100:
- Characterization of soil: the specific gravity test provides valuable information about the mineral composition and density of soil, which are essential for understanding its engineering behavior.
- Quality control: the standard test method ensures consistency and reliability in the determination of specific gravity, allowing for accurate comparison of results across different laboratories and projects.
- Geotechnical design: the specific gravity value is used in various geotechnical calculations, contributing to the safe and economical design of earthworks and foundations.
AASHTO T100 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the AASHTO T100 standard.
Our laboratory offers comprehensive soil testing services, including the determination of specific gravity according to AASHTO T100. Our experienced technicians utilize calibrated equipment and adhere to strict quality control procedures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of our test results.
Contact us for more information.
Resources
Keywords
specific gravity; soil; pycnometer; density; mass; volume; particle size; sieve analysis; water content