Laboratory Testing

Maximum densities indicate the highest achievable density of a soil under specific force. Compaction is a vital part of many building and civil engineering projects. The way the compaction work is planned and performed has a decisive influence on the safety, quality and lifespan of the finished construction. This data can work in correspondence with in-situ testing to ensure that required compaction levels are being achieved.

CBR's are penetration tests that applies different stress types to a material, evaluating its performance under varying conditions. This test is used commonly used to determine pavement design thickness or to verify design specifications.

A particle size distribution (grading) test measures the size range and frequency of particles size masses in a given sample. Gradings Help in classifying different soil types, determining how well water can move through the soil as well as aiding in selecting appropriate materials for backfill, embankments, and other construction needs, ensuring they meet engineering specifications.

A shrink-swell test is used to evaluate the potential for volume changes in soils due to changes in moisture content. Data obtained from this test is utilised to identify necessary design modifications and specifications aimed at preventing potential structural damage.

An Atterberg Limits tests determines the difference between the liquid limit and plastic limit of a soil. It helps engineers predict the behaviour of soils, particularly fine-grained soils like clays, regarding their ability to undergo deformation and retain moisture.

Soil salinity is assessed by passing an electrical current through soil sample. High salinity levels can accelerate corrosion of metals and concretes resulting in poor lasting structures.

Soil Electrical Conductivity (EC) is a measure of the concentration of ions from water-soluble salts in soils and their ability to conduct an electrical current. The test results are an indicator of soil salinity. EC is measured from a soil in aqueous solution using an electrode calibrated against an EC standard.

Thermal resistivity and conductivity are critical in the design and installation of underground power transmission systems. It is important to understand the thermal properties of the natural soil or back fill material, to ensure the heat produced by current flowing through underground power cables is properly dissipated to avoid premature failures. The test which can be conducted in-situ or on a sample collected from the field measures the capacity of a material to conduct or dissipate heat. The thermal properties of a material are affected by the moisture content, organic material, air voids, density, composition and structure.

pH is measured on a scale of 1 to 14 (low end being acidic and the high end alkaline), but most soils are found between 4 to 10 when measured in water. Outside the range it can have a negative effect on structures and plant growth.

The Benkleman Beam is a simple device that is used to measure the rebound deflection of flexible pavement surfaces. The Benkelman Beam is used with a loaded truck-usually on a single axle 8.2ton and TYRES: DUAL 11R22.5 Radial Highway Tread 750±30kPa.