Correlations for relative density of clean sand with median grain size and compaction energy

Abstract

Laboratory test results of 55 clean sand samples to determine the maximum and minimum void ratios as well as the void ratios at maximum unit weights of compaction based on standard Proctor tests (600 kN-m/m^3), reduced standard Proctor tests (300 kN-m/m^3), modified Proctor tests (2700 kN-m/m^3), and reduced modified Proctor tests (1300 kN-m/m^3) are presented. Based on the test results, a simple and unique correlation is developed where the relative density at the maximum unit weight of compaction is expressed as a function of the median grain size, and the compaction energy. The relative densities predicted by the correlation provided values which are within ±10% of those obtained from the laboratory tests.