Construction & quality

CEE483 – Fall 2020

1

CEE 483 Fall 2020 Highway Materials, Construction Dr.
Kaloush & Quality

Homework Assignment #4 Date Assigned: 9/28/20
Date Due: 10/2/20

1. The results of a compaction test on samples of soil that are to be used for a highway
construction project are listed below.

Trial Bulk Density (lb/ft3) Water Content (%)
1 122.8 6.8
2 131.6 9.1
3 135.9 11.0
4 137.3 12.8
5 136.2 15.0
6 133.6 16.6

a. Plot the compaction curve and determine the max dry density of compaction for

this soil at the optimum water content.
b. Draw the zero air voids curve on the plot (make any necessary assumption for the

calculations).
c. What are the advantages of plotting / knowing the zero air voids curve.

2. Briefly explains the use of Sheeps / Tamping foot compactor, including: its use (when

and for what type of materials), lift construction action, thickness limitations, and the
needed follow up process.

3. A highway construction project specifies 96% compaction. Lab tests on the soil being
used indicated that it has a maximum dry density of 116.8 lb/ft3 at an optimum water
content of 12.3%. Field tests give the dry density is 110.0 lb/ft3 at 15.6% water
content. Were the specifications met? Explain.

4. A subgrade soil with a CBR of 8. Estimate the Resistance Value, Resilient Modulus,

and the Dynamic Cone Penetrometer Index.

5. Develop a tabular relationships between CBR, R-Value, Mr and DCP for a range of
CBR: 3, 5, 8, 10, 15, 20, and 30. Plot the relationships and comment on the trends.