Compaction trial to determine number of passes, layer thickness, moisture content and density ratio

What is it about?

This book chapter describes Rolling Dynamic Compaction (RDC), which is a soil improvement technique that involves a heavy non-circular module that rotates about a corner as it is towed, causing the module to fall to the ground and compact it dynamically. This book chapter includes: - Introduction to RDC; - Compaction theory; - Applications and limitations of RDC; - Verification of RDC (test methods and use of field trials); - Case study is described that summarises a field trial where the underlying objective was to determine an efficient relationship between the number of passes, placed loose layer thickness, moisture content, and corresponding dry density ratio that could be achieved.

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Why is it important?

RDC can be a productive and cost-effective option in many different earthwork applications. However, the depth of influence of RDC can vary significantly depending on the soil type, moisture content, loose layer thickness or number of passes adopted. The variable and often unpredictable depth to which ground can be improved is one of the biggest limitations on the use of RDC, particularly when improving in situ material, as a back-up plan may need to be implemented if ground improvement is not achieved to the required (or expected) depths. The case study presented describes how a field trial was used to quantify the layer thickness that could be compacted to achieve the required specification.

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