Designation: D7181 − 11

Standard Test Method for

Consolidated Drained Triaxial Compression Test for Soils1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7181; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope test results in units other than SI shall not be regarded as

1.1 This test method covers the determination of strength non-conformance with this test method.
and stress-strain relationships of a cylindrical specimen of 1.7.1 The gravitational system of inch-pound units is used
either intact or reconstituted soil. Specimens are consolidated when dealing with inch-pound units. In this system, the pound
and sheared in compression with drainage at a constant rate of (lbf) represents a unit of force (weight), while the unit for mass
axial deformation (strain controlled). is slugs. The slug unit is not given, unless dynamic (F = ma)
calculations are involved.
1.2 This test method provides for the calculation of princi- 1.7.2 It is common practice in the engineering/construction
pal stresses and axial compression by measurement of axial profession to concurrently use pounds to represent both a unit
load, axial deformation, and volumetric changes. of mass (lbm) and of force (lbf). This implicitly combines two
1.3 This test method provides data useful in determining separate systems of units: that is, the absolute system and the
strength and deformation properties such as Mohr strength gravitational system. It is scientifically undesirable to combine
envelopes. Generally, three specimens are tested at different the use of two separate sets of inch-pound units within a single
effective consolidation stresses to define a strength envelope. standard. As stated, this standard includes the gravitational
system of inch-pound units and does not use/present the slug
1.4 If this test method is used on cohesive soil, a test may
unit for mass. However, the use of balances or scales recording
take weeks to complete.
pounds of mass (lbm) or recording density in lbm/ft3 shall not
1.5 The determination of strength envelopes and the devel- be regarded as non-conformance with this standard.
opment of relationships to aid in interpreting and evaluating 1.7.3 The terms density and unit weight are often used
test results are beyond the scope of this test method and must interchangeably. Density is mass per unit volume whereas unit
be performed by a qualified, experienced professional. weight is force per unit volume. In this standard density is
1.6 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the given only in SI units. After the density has been determined,
guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in the unit weight is calculated in SI or inch-pound units, or both.
Practice D6026. 1.8 This standard may involve hazardous materials, opera-
1.6.1 The methods used to specify how data are collected, tions, and equipment. This standard does not purport to
calculated, or recorded in this standard are regarded as the address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its
industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to
significant digits that generally should be retained. The proce- establish appropriate safety and health practices and deter-
dures used do not consider material variations, purpose for mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
obtaining the data, special purpose studies or any consideration
of the end use. It is beyond the scope of this test method to 2. Referenced Documents
consider significant digits used in analysis methods for engi- 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
neering design. D422 Test Method for Particle-Size Analysis of Soils
1.7 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
as standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are Fluids
mathematical conversions, which are provided for information D854 Test Methods for Specific Gravity of Soil Solids by
purposes only and are not considered standard. Reporting of Water Pycnometer
D1587 Practice for Thin-Walled Tube Sampling of Soils for
Geotechnical Purposes
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and
2
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.05 on Strength and For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Compressibility of Soils. contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Current edition approved July 1, 2011. Published August 2011. DOI: 10.1520/ Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
D7181 the ASTM website.

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 D7181 − 11
D2166 Test Method for Unconfined Compressive Strength existing normal stresses and the normal stress changes under
of Cohesive Soil drained conditions similar to those in the test method.
D2216 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water 4.3 The shear strength determined from this test method can
(Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass be expressed in terms of effective stress because a strain rate or
D2435 Test Methods for One-Dimensional Consolidation load application rate slow enough to allow pore pressure
Properties of Soils Using Incremental Loading dissipation during shear is used to minimize excess pore
D2487 Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering pressure conditions. The shear strength may be applied to field
Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System) conditions where full drainage can occur (drained conditions),
D2850 Test Method for Unconsolidated-Undrained Triaxial and the field stress conditions are similar to those in the test
Compression Test on Cohesive Soils method.
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as 4.4 The shear strength determined from the test is com-
Used in Engineering Design and Construction monly used in embankment stability analyses, earth pressure
D4220 Practices for Preserving and Transporting Soil calculations, and foundation design.
NOTE 1—Notwithstanding the statements on precision and bias con-
Samples tained in this test method, the precision of this test method is dependent on
D4318 Test Methods for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and the competence of the personnel performing it and the suitability of the
Plasticity Index of Soils equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice
D4753 Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Bal- D3740 are generally considered capable of competent testing. Users of
ances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and this test method are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does
not ensure reliable testing. Reliable testing depends on several factors;
Construction Materials Testing Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
D4767 Test Method for Consolidated Undrained Triaxial
Compression Test for Cohesive Soils 5. Apparatus
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical
5.1 The requirements for equipment needed to perform
Data
satisfactory tests are given in the following sections. See Fig.
D7263 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Den-
1
sity (Unit Weight) of Soil Specimens
5.2 Axial Loading Device—The axial loading device may be
3. Terminology a screw jack driven by an electric motor through a geared
transmission, a hydraulic loading device, or any other com-
3.1 Definitions—Refer to Terminology D653 for standard pression device with sufficient capacity and control to provide
definitions of common technical terms. the rate of axial strain (loading) prescribed in 8.4.2. The rate of
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: advance of the loading device should not deviate by more than
3.2.1 back pressure, n—a pressure applied to the specimen 61 % from the selected value. Vibration due to the operation
pore-water to cause air in the pore space to compress and to of the loading device shall be sufficiently small to not cause
pass into solution in the pore-water thereby increasing the dimensional changes in the specimen.
percent saturation of the specimen. NOTE 2—A loading device may be judged to produce sufficiently small
vibrations if there are no visible ripples in a glass of water placed on the
3.2.2 effective consolidation stress, n—the difference be- loading platform when the device is operating at the speed at which the
tween the cell pressure and the pore-water pressure prior to test is performed.
shearing the specimen. 5.3 Axial Load-Measuring Device—The axial load-
3.2.3 failure, n—a maximum-stress condition or stress at a measuring device shall be an electronic load cell, hydraulic
defined strain for a test specimen. Failure is often taken to load cell, or any other load-measuring device capable of the
correspond to the maximum principal stress difference (maxi- accuracy prescribed in this paragraph and may be a part of the
mum deviator stress) attained or the principal stress difference axial loading device. The axial load-measuring device shall be
(deviator stress) at 15 % axial strain, whichever is obtained first capable of measuring the axial load to an accuracy of within
during the performance of a test. Depending on soil behavior 1 % of the axial load at failure. If the load-measuring device is
and field application, other suitable failure criteria may be located inside the triaxial compression chamber, it shall be
defined, such as maximum effective stress obliquity, s1/s3max, insensitive to horizontal forces and to the magnitude of the
or the principal stress difference (deviator stress) at a selected chamber pressure.
axial strain other than 15 %. 5.4 Triaxial Compression Chamber—The triaxial chamber
shall have a working chamber pressure capable of sustaining
4. Significance and Use the sum of the effective consolidation stress and the back
pressure. It shall consist of a top plate and a base plate
4.1 The shear strength of a saturated soil in triaxial com-
separated by a cylinder. The cylinder may be constructed of
pression depends on the stresses applied, time of consolidation,
any material capable of withstanding the applied pressures. It is
strain rate, and the stress history experienced by the soil.
desirable to use a transparent material or have a cylinder
4.2 In this test method, the shear characteristics are mea- provided with viewing ports so the behavior of the specimen
sured under drained conditions and are applicable to field may be observed. The top plate shall have a vent valve such
conditions where soils have been fully consolidated under the that air can be forced out of the chamber as it is filled. The base

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 D7181 − 11

FIG. 1 Schematic Diagram of a Typical Consolidated Undrained Triaxial Apparatus

plate shall have an inlet through which the pressure liquid is devices shall be capable of measuring the ranges of pressures
supplied to the chamber and inlets leading to the specimen base or partial vacuums to the tolerances given in 5.6. They may
and provide for connection to the cap to allow saturation and consist of electronic pressure transducers, or any other device
drainage of the specimen when required. capable of measuring pressures, or partial vacuums to the
5.5 Axial Load Piston—The piston passing through the top stated tolerances. If separate devices are used to measure the
of the chamber and its seal must be designed so the axial load chamber pressure and back pressure, the devices must be
due to friction does not exceed 0.1 % of the axial load at failure normalized simultaneously and against the same pressure
and so there is negligible lateral bending of the piston during source. Since the chamber and back pressure are the pressures
loading. taken at the midheight of the specimen, it may be necessary to
NOTE 3—The use of two linear ball bushings to guide the piston is adjust the zero-offset of the devices to reflect the hydraulic
recommended to minimize friction and maintain alignment. head of fluids in the chamber and back pressure control
NOTE 4—A minimum piston diameter of 1⁄6 the specimen diameter has systems.
been used successfully in many laboratories to minimize lateral bending.
5.8 Volume Change Measurement Device—The volume of
5.6 Pressure and Vacuum-Control Devices—The chamber water entering or leaving the specimen shall be measured with
pressure and back pressure control devices shall be (a) capable an accuracy of within 60.05 % of the total volume of the
of applying and controlling pressures to within 62 kPa (0.25 specimen. The volume-measuring device is usually a burette
lbf/in.2) for effective consolidation pressures less than 200 kPa connected to the back pressure but may be any other device
(28 lbf/in.2) and to within 61 % for effective consolidation meeting the accuracy requirement. The device must be able to
pressures greater than 200 kPa, and (b) able to maintain the withstand the maximum back pressure and of sufficient capac-
effective consolidation stress within 2 % of the desired value ity for the performance of the test. Volume changes during
(Note 5). The vacuum-control device shall be capable of shear are often on the order of 620 % or more of the specimen
applying and controlling partial vacuums to within 62 kPa. volume. Either allowing for resetting of the system during
The devices may consist of pneumatic-pressure regulators, shear or having a total capacity capable of measuring the entire
combination pneumatic pressure and vacuum regulators, or any change may meet the required capacity.
other device capable of applying and controlling pressures or
partial vacuums to the required tolerances. These tests can 5.9 Deformation Indicator—The vertical deformation of the
require a duration of several days, therefore, an external specimen is usually determined from the travel of the piston
air/water interface is recommended for both the chamber- acting on the top of the specimen. The piston travel shall be
pressure or back-pressure systems. measured with an accuracy of at least 0.25 % of the initial
NOTE 5—Many laboratories use differential pressure regulators and specimen height. The deformation indicator shall have a range
transducers to achieve the requirements for small differences between of at least 20 % of the initial height of the specimen and may
chamber and back pressure. be a dial indicator, linear variable differential transformer
5.7 Pressure- and Vacuum-Measurement Devices—The (LVDT), extensometer, or other measuring device meeting the
chamber pressure-, back pressure-, and vacuum-measuring requirements for accuracy and range.

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 D7181 − 11
5.10 Specimen Cap and Base—The specimen cap and base 5.14 Valves—Changes in volume due to opening and closing
shall be designed to provide drainage from both ends of the valves may result in inaccurate volume change and pore-water
specimen. They shall be constructed of a rigid, noncorrosive, pressure measurements. For this reason, valves in the specimen
impermeable material, and each shall, except for the drainage drainage system shall be of the type that produces minimum
provision, have a circular plane surface of contact with the volume changes due to their operation. A valve may be
porous disks and a circular cross section. It is desirable for the assumed to produce minimum volume change if opening or
mass of the specimen cap and top porous disk to be as minimal closing the valve in a closed, saturated pore-water pressure
as possible. However, the mass may be as much as 10 % of the system does not induce a pressure change of greater than 0.7
axial load at failure. If the mass is greater than 0.5 % of the kPa (60.1 lbf/in.2). All valves must be capable of withstanding
applied axial load at failure and greater than 50 g (0.1 lb), the applied pressures without leakage.
axial load must be corrected for the mass of the specimen cap NOTE 7—Ball valves have been found to provide minimum volume-
and top porous disk. The diameter of the cap and base shall be change characteristics; however, any other type of valve having suitable
volume-change characteristics may be used.
equal to the initial diameter of the specimen. The specimen
base shall be connected to the triaxial compression chamber to 5.15 Specimen-Size Measurement Devices—Devices used to
prevent lateral motion or tilting, and the specimen cap shall be determine the height and diameter of the specimen shall
designed such that eccentricity of the piston-to-cap contact measure the respective dimensions to four significant digits and
relative to the vertical axis of the specimen does not exceed 1.3 shall be constructed such that their use will not disturb/deform
mm (0.05 in.). The end of the piston and specimen cap contact the specimen.
area shall be designed so that tilting of the specimen cap during NOTE 8—Circumferential measuring tapes are recommended over
calipers for measuring the diameter.
the test is minimal. The cylindrical surface of the specimen
base and cap that contacts the membrane to form a seal shall be 5.16 Data Acquisition—Specimen behavior may be re-
smooth and free of scratches. corded manually or by electronic digital or analog recorders. If
electronic data acquisition is used, it shall be necessary to
5.11 Porous Disks—A rigid porous disk shall be used to
calibrate the measuring devices through the recording device
provide drainage at each end of the specimen. The coefficient
using known input standards.
of permeability of the disks shall be at most equal to that of fine
sand (1 × 10-4 cm/s (4 × 10–5 in./s)). The disks shall be 5.17 Timer—A timing device indicating the elapsed testing
regularly cleaned by ultrasonic or boiling and brushing and time to the nearest 1 s shall be used to obtain consolidation data
checked to determine whether they have become clogged. (8.3.3).
5.12 Filter-Paper Strips and Disk—Filter-paper strips are 5.18 Balance—A balance or scale conforming to the re-
used by many laboratories to decrease the time required for quirements of Specification D4753 readable to four significant
testing. Filter-paper disks of a diameter equal to that of the digits.
specimen may be placed between the porous disks and speci- 5.19 Water Deaeration Device—The amount of dissolved
men to avoid clogging of the porous disks. If filter strips or gas (air) in the water used to saturate the specimen shall be
disks are used, they shall be of a type that does not dissolve in decreased by boiling, by heating and spraying into a vacuum,
water. The coefficient of permeability of the filter paper shall or by any other method that will satisfy the requirement for
not be less than 1 × 10-5 cm/s (4 × 10-6 in./s) for a normal saturating the specimen within the limits imposed by the
pressure of 550 kPa (80 lbf/in.2). To avoid hoop tension, filter available maximum back pressure and time to perform the test.
strips should cover no more than 50 % of the specimen
5.20 Testing Environment—The consolidation and shear
periphery. Many laboratories have successfully used filter strip
portion of the test shall be performed in an environment where
cages. An equation for correcting the principal stress difference
temperature fluctuations are less than 64 °C (67.2 °F) and
(deviator stress) for the effect of the strength of vertical filter
there is no direct exposure with sunlight.
strips is given in 10.3.3.1.
NOTE 6—Grade No. 54 Filter Paper has been found to meet the 5.21 Miscellaneous Apparatus—Specimen trimming and
permeability and durability requirements. carving tools including a wire saw, steel straightedge, miter
5.13 Rubber Membrane—The rubber membrane used to box, vertical trimming lathe, apparatus for preparing reconsti-
encase the specimen shall provide reliable protection against tuted specimens, membrane and O-ring expander, water con-
leakage. Membranes shall be carefully inspected prior to use tent cans, and data sheets shall be provided as required.
and if any flaws or pinholes are evident, the membrane shall be
discarded. To offer minimum restraint to the specimen, the 6. Test Specimen Preparation
unstretched membrane diameter shall be between 90 and 95 % 6.1 Specimen Size—Specimens shall be cylindrical and have
of that of the specimen. The membrane thickness shall not a minimum diameter of 33 mm (1.3 in.). The average-height-
exceed 1 % of the diameter of the specimen. The membrane to-average-diameter ratio shall be between 2 and 2.5. An
shall be sealed to the specimen cap and base with rubber individual measurement of height or diameter shall not vary
O-rings for which the unstressed inside diameter is between 75 from average by more than 2 %. The largest particle size shall
and 85 % of the diameter of the cap and base, or by other be smaller than 1⁄6 the specimen diameter. If, after completion
means that will provide a positive seal. An equation for of a test, it is found based on visual observation that oversize
correcting the principal stress difference (deviator stress) for particles are present, indicate this information in the report of
the effect of the stiffness of the membrane is given in 10.3.3.2. test data (11.1.4).

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 D7181 − 11
NOTE 9—If oversize particles are found in the specimen after testing, a measurements (120° apart) and at least three diameter mea-
particle-size analysis may be performed on the tested specimen in surements at the quarter points of the height shall be made to
accordance with Test Method D422 to confirm the visual observation and
the results provided with the test report (11.1.4).
determine the average height and diameter of the specimen.
Perform one or more water content determinations on excess
6.2 Intact Specimens—Prepare intact specimens from large
material used to prepare the specimen in accordance with Test
intact samples or from samples secured in accordance with
Method D2216.
Practice D1587 or other acceptable intact tube sampling
procedures. Samples shall be preserved and transported in NOTE 10—It is common for the density or unit weight of the specimen
accordance with the practices for Group C samples in Practices after removal from the mold to be less than the value based on the volume
D4220. Specimens obtained by tube sampling may be tested of the mold. This occurs as a result of the specimen swelling after removal
of the lateral confinement due to the mold.
without trimming except for cutting the end surfaces plane and
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the specimen, pro- 6.4 Reconstituted Specimens—Prepare reconstituted speci-
vided soil characteristics are such that no significant distur- mens in the manner specified by the requesting agency.
bance results from sampling. Handle specimens carefully to Common methods include:
minimize disturbance, changes in cross section, or change in 6.4.1 Pluviation Through Water Method—For this specimen
water content. If compression or any type of noticeable preparation method, a granular soil is saturated initially in a
disturbance would be caused by the extrusion device, split the container, poured through water into a water-filled membrane
sample tube lengthwise or cut the tube in suitable sections to placed on a forming mold, and then densified to the required
facilitate removal of the specimen with minimum disturbance. density by vibration; refer to reference by Chaney and Mullis.3
Prepare trimmed specimens, in an environment such as a
controlled high-humidity room where soil water content NOTE 11—A specimen may be vibrated either on the side of the mold
change is minimized. Where removal of pebbles or crumbling or the base of the cell using a variety of apparatus. These include the
following: tapping with an implement of some type such as a spoon or
resulting from trimming causes voids on the surface of the metal rod, pneumatic vibrator, or electric engraving tool.
specimen, carefully fill the voids with remolded soil obtained
from the trimmings. If the sample can be trimmed with 6.4.2 Dry Screening Method—For this method a tube with a
minimal disturbance, a vertical trimming lathe may be used to screen attached to one end is placed inside a membrane
reduce the specimen to the required diameter. After obtaining stretched over a forming mold. A dry uniform sand is then
the required diameter, place the specimen in a miter box, and poured into the tube. The tube is then slowly withdrawn from
cut the specimen to the final height with a wire saw or other this membrane/mold allowing the sand to pass through the
suitable device. Trim the surfaces with the steel straightedge. screen forming a specimen. If a greater density of the sand is
Perform one or more water content determinations on material desired the mold may be vibrated.
trimmed from the specimen in accordance with Test Method 6.4.3 Dry or Moist Vibration Method—In this procedure
D2216. Determine the mass and dimensions of the specimen compact oven-dried, or moist granular material in layers
using the devices described in 5.16 and 5.20. A minimum of (typically six to seven layers) in a membrane-lined split mold
three height measurements (120° apart) and at least three attached to the bottom platen of the triaxial cell. Compact the
diameter measurements at the quarter points of the height shall weighed material for each lift by vibration to the dry unit
be made to determine the average height and diameter of the weight required to obtain the prescribed density. Scarify the
specimen. soil surface between lifts. It should be noted that to obtain
6.3 Reconstituted Specimens—Reconstituted specimens uniform density, the bottom layers have to be slightly under
shall be prepared at the conditions specified for the test. Soil compacted, since compaction of each succeeding layer in-
required for Reconstituted specimens shall be thoroughly creases the density of sand in layers below it. After the final
mixed with sufficient water to produce the desired water layer is partially compacted, put the top cap in place and
content. If water is added to the soil, store the material in a continue vibration until the desired dry unit weight is obtained.
covered container for at least 16 h prior to compaction. 6.4.4 Tamping Method—For this procedure tamp air dry or
Reconstituted specimens may be prepared by compacting moist granular or cohesive soil in layers into a mold. The only
material in at least six layers using a split mold of circular cross difference between the tamping method and the vibration
section having dimensions meeting the requirements enumer- method is that each layer is compacted by hand tamping with
ated in 6.1. Specimens may be compacted to the desired a compaction foot instead of with a vibrator, refer to reference
density by either: (1) kneading or tamping each layer until the by Ladd, R.S.4
accumulative mass of the soil placed in the mold is compacted 6.4.5 After the specimen has been formed, place the speci-
to a known volume; or (2) by adjusting the number of layers, men cap in place and seal the specimen with O-rings or rubber
the number of tamps per layer, and the force per tamp. The top bands after placing the membrane ends over the cap and base.
of each layer shall be scarified prior to the addition of material Then apply a partial vacuum of 35 kPa (5 lbf/in.2) to the
for the next layer. The tamper used to compact the material
shall have a diameter equal to or less than ½ the diameter of the
mold. After a specimen is formed, with the ends perpendicular 3
Chaney, R., and Mulilis, J., “Wet Sample Preparation Techniques,” Geotech-
to the longitudinal axis, remove the mold and determine the nical Testing Journal, ASTM, 1978, pp. 107-108.
mass and dimensions of the specimen using the devices 4
Ladd, R.S., “Preparing Test Specimens Using Under-Compaction,” Geotech-
described in 5.14 and 5.17. A minimum of three height nical Testing Journal, ASTM, Vol. 1, No. 1, March, 1978, pp. 16-23.

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 D7181 − 11
specimen and remove the forming jacket. If the test confining- 7.2.2.1 Dry the specimen drainage system. This may be
pressure is greater than 103 kPa (14.7 lbf/in.2), a full vacuum accomplished by allowing dry air to flow through the system
may be applied to the specimen in stages prior to removing the prior to mounting the specimen.
jacket. 7.2.2.2 Dry the porous disks in an oven and then place the
disks in a desiccator to cool to room temperature prior to
7. Mounting Specimen mounting the specimen.
7.2.2.3 Place a dry porous disk on the specimen base and
7.1 Preparations—Before mounting the specimen in the
place the specimen on the disk. Next, place a dry porous disk
triaxial chamber, make the following preparations:
and the specimen cap on the specimen. Check that the
7.1.1 Inspect the rubber membrane for flaws, pinholes, and
specimen cap, porous disks, and specimen are centered on the
leaks.
specimen base.
7.1.2 Place the membrane on the membrane expander or, if
it is to be rolled onto the specimen, roll the membrane on the NOTE 14—If desired, dry filter-paper disks may be placed between the
porous disks and specimen.
cap or base.
7.1.3 Check that the porous disks and specimen drainage 7.2.2.4 If filter-paper strips or a filter paper cage are to be
tubes are not obstructed by passing air or water through the used, the cage or strips may be held in place by small pieces of
appropriate lines. tape at the top and bottom.
7.1.4 Attach the pressure-control and volume-measurement 7.3 Place the rubber membrane around the specimen and
system and a pore-pressure measurement device to the cham- seal it at the cap and base with two rubber O-rings or other
ber base. positive seal at each end. A thin coating of silicon grease on the
7.2 Depending on whether the saturation portion of the test vertical surfaces of the cap and base will aid in sealing the
will be initiated with either a wet or dry drainage system, membrane. If filter-paper strips or a filter-paper cage are used,
mount the specimen using the appropriate method, as follows do not apply grease to surfaces in contact with the filter paper.
in either 7.2.1 or 7.2.2. The dry mounting method is strongly 7.4 Attach the top drainage line and check the alignment of
recommended for specimens with initial saturation less than the specimen and the specimen cap. If the dry mounting
90 %. The dry mounting method removes air prior to adding method has been used, apply a partial vacuum of approxi-
backpressure and lowers the backpressure needed to attain an mately 35 kPa (5 lbf/in.2) (not to exceed the consolidation
adequate percent saturation. stress) to the specimen through the top drainage line prior to
checking the alignment. If there is any eccentricity, release the
NOTE 12—It is recommended that the dry mounting method be used for
specimens of soils that swell appreciably when in contact with water. If partial vacuum, realign the specimen and cap, and then reapply
the wet mounting method is used for such soils, it will be necessary to the partial vacuum. If the wet mounting method has been used,
obtain the specimen dimensions after the specimen has been mounted. In the alignment of the specimen and the specimen cap may be
such cases, it will be necessary to determine the double thickness of the checked and adjusted without the use of a partial vacuum.
membrane, the double thickness of the wet filter paper strips (if used), and
the combined height of the cap, base, and porous disks (including the
thickness of filter disks if they are used) so that the appropriate values may
8. Procedure
be subtracted from the measurements. 8.1 Prior to Saturation—After assembling the triaxial
7.2.1 Wet Mounting Method: chamber, perform the following operations:
7.2.1.1 Fill the specimen drainage lines and the pore-water 8.1.1 Bring the axial load piston into contact with the
pressure measurement device with deaired water. specimen cap several times to permit proper seating and
7.2.1.2 Saturate the porous disks by boiling them in water alignment of the piston with the cap. During this procedure,
for at least 10 min and allow to cool to room temperature. take care not to apply an axial load to the specimen exceeding
0.5 % of the estimated axial load at failure. When the piston is
7.2.1.3 Place a saturated porous disk on the specimen base
brought into contact, record the reading of the deformation
and after wiping away all free water on the disk, place the
indicator.
specimen on the disk. Next, place another porous disk and the
8.1.2 Fill the chamber with the chamber liquid, being
specimen cap on top of the specimen. Check that the specimen
careful to avoid trapping air or leaving an air space in the
cap, specimen, and porous disks are centered on the specimen
chamber.
base.
8.2 Saturation—The objective of the saturation phase of the
NOTE 13—If filter-paper disks are to be placed between the porous disks test is to fill all voids in the specimen with water without
and specimen, they should be dipped in water prior to placement.
undesirable prestressing of the specimen, allowing the speci-
7.2.1.4 If filter-paper strips or a filter-paper cage are to be men to swell, or causing migration of fines. Saturation is
used, saturate the paper with water prior to placing it on the usually accomplished by applying back pressure to the speci-
specimen. To avoid hoop tension, do not cover more than 50 % men pore water to drive air into solution after saturating the
of the specimen periphery with vertical strips of filter paper. system by either: (1) applying vacuum to the specimen and dry
The filter paper should extend to porous disks on top and drainage system (lines, porous disks, pore-pressure device,
bottom of sample. filter-strips or cage, and disks) and then allowing deaired water
7.2.1.5 Proceed with 7.3. to flow through the system and specimen while maintaining the
7.2.2 Dry Mounting Method: vacuum; or (2) saturating the drainage system by boiling the

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 D7181 − 11
porous disks in water and allowing water to flow through the incrementally with adequate time between increments to per-
system prior to mounting the specimen. It should be noted that mit equalization of pore-water pressure throughout the speci-
placing the air into solution is a function of both time and men. The size of each increment may range from 35 kPa (5
pressure. Accordingly, removing as much air as possible prior lbf/in.2). A minimum of three height measurements (120°
to applying back pressure will decrease the amount of air that apart) and at least three diameter measurements at the quarter
will have to be placed into solution and will also decrease the points of the height shall be made to determine the average
back pressure required for saturation. In addition, air remaining height and diameter of the specimen up to 140 kPa (20 lbf/in.
2
in the specimen and drainage system just prior to applying back ), depending on the magnitude of the desired effective
pressure will go into solution much more readily if deaired consolidation stress, and the percent saturation of the specimen
water is used for saturation. The use of deaired water will also just prior to the addition of the increment. The difference
decrease the time and backpressure required for saturation. between the chamber pressure and the backpressure during
Many procedures have been developed to accomplish satura- back pressuring should not exceed 35 kPa (5 lbf/in.2) unless it
tion. The following are suggested procedures: is deemed necessary to control swelling of the specimen during
8.2.1 Starting with Initially Dry Drainage System—Increase the procedure. The difference between the chamber and back
from partial vacuum acting on top of the specimen to the pressure must also remain within 65 % when the pressures are
maximum available vacuum. If the final effective consolidation raised and within 62 % when the pressures are constant. To
stress is less than the maximum partial vacuum, apply a lower check for equalization after application of a backpressure
vacuum to the chamber. The difference between the partial increment or after the full value of backpressure has been
vacuum applied to the specimen and the chamber should never applied, close the specimen drainage valves and measure the
exceed the effective consolidation stress for the test and should change in pore-pressure over a 1-min interval. If the change in
not be less than 35 kPa (5 lbf/in.2) to allow for flow through the pore pressure is less than 5 % of the difference between the
sample. After approximately 10 min, allow deaired water to chamber pressure and the back pressure, another back pressure
slowly percolate from the bottom to the top of the specimen increment may be added or a measurement may be taken of the
(Note 15). pore pressure Parameter B (see 8.2.4) to determine if saturation
8.2.1.1 There should always be a positive effective stress of is completed. Specimens shall be considered to be saturated if
at least 13 kPa (2 lbf/in.2) at the bottom of the specimen during the value of B is equal to or greater than 0.95, or if B remains
this part of the procedure. When water appears in the burette unchanged with addition of backpressure increments. The B
connected to the top of the specimen, close the valve to the Parameter could also be check following consolidation stage.
bottom of the specimen and fill the burette with deaired water. NOTE 16—Although the pore pressure Parameter B is used to determine
Next, reduce the vacuum acting on top of the specimen through adequate saturation, the B-value is also a function of soil stiffness. If the
the burette to atmospheric pressure while simultaneously saturation of the sample is 100 %, the B-value measurement will decrease
increasing the chamber pressure by an equal amount. This with increasing soil stiffness. Therefore, when testing soft soil samples, a
process should be performed slowly such that the difference B-value of 95 % may indicate a saturation approaching 100 %.
NOTE 17—The back pressure required to saturate a specimen may be
between the pore pressure measured at the bottom of the higher for the wet mounting method than for the dry mounting method
specimen and the pressure at the top of the specimen should be because of the added difficulty of flushing out the air before back-pressure
allowed to equalize. When the pore pressure at the bottom of saturation and may be as high as 1400 kPa (200 lbf/in.2).
the specimen stabilizes, proceed with back pressuring of the 8.2.4 Measurement of the Pore Pressure Parameter
specimen pore-water as described in 8.2.3. To check for B—Determine the value of the pore pressure Parameter B in
equalization, close the drainage valves to the specimen and accordance with 8.2.4.1-8.2.4.4. The pore pressure Parameter
measure the pore pressure change until stable for at least 2 min. B is defined by the following equation:
If the change is less than 5 % of the effective stress, the pore
pressure can be assumed to be stabilized. Du
B5 (1)
Ds 3
NOTE 15—For saturated clays, percolation may not be necessary and
water can be added simultaneously at both top and bottom. where:
8.2.2 Starting with Initially Saturated Drainage System— Du = change in the specimen pore pressure that occurs as
After filling the burette connected to the top of the specimen a result of a change in the chamber pressure when
with deaired water, apply a chamber pressure of 35 kPa (5 the specimen drainage valves are closed, and
lbf/in.2) or less and open the specimen drainage valves. When Ds3 = isotropic change in the chamber pressure.
the pore pressure at the bottom of the specimen stabilizes, 8.2.4.1 Close the specimen drainage valves, record the pore
according to the method described in 8.2.1.1, or when the pressure, and increase the chamber pressure. Commonly, an
burette reading stabilizes, back pressuring of the specimen increase of 70 kPa (10 lbf/in.2) is used.
pore-water may be initiated. 8.2.4.2 After approximately 2 min, determine and record the
8.2.3 Applying Back Pressure—Simultaneously increase the maximum value of the induced pore pressure. For many
chamber and back pressure in steps with specimen drainage specimens, the pore pressure may decrease after the immediate
valves opened so that deaired water from the burette connected response and then increase slightly with time. If this occurs,
to the top and bottom of the specimen may flow into the values of Du should be plotted with time and the asymptotic
specimen. To avoid undesirable prestressing of the specimen pore pressure used as the change in pore pressure. A large
while applying back pressure, the pressures must be applied increase in Du with time or values of Du greater than Ds3

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 D7181 − 11
indicate a leak of chamber fluid into the specimen. Decreasing 8.3.4 Plot the volume change and deformation indicator
values of Du with time may indicate a leak in that part of the readings versus either the logarithm or square root of elapsed
pore pressure measurement system located outside of the time. Allow consolidation to continue for at least one log cycle
chamber. of time or one overnight period after 100 % primary consoli-
8.2.4.3 Calculate the B-value using Eq 1. dation has been achieved as determined in accordance with one
8.2.4.4 Reapply the same effective consolidation stress as of the procedures outlined in Test Method D2435. A marked
existed prior to the B-value by reducing the chamber pressure deviation between the slopes of the volume change and
or by, alternatively, increasing the back pressure by the amount deformation indicator curves toward the end of consolidation
of the chamber pressure increase. If B is continuing to increase based on deformation indicator readings indicates leakage of
with increasing back pressure, continue with back pressure fluid from the chamber into the specimen, and the test should
saturation. If B is equal to or greater than 0.95 or if a plot of B be terminated. The plot can be used to also determine t50 or t90.
versus back pressure indicates no further increase in B with
increasing back pressure, initiate consolidation. 8.4 Shear—During shear, the chamber pressure shall be kept
constant while advancing the axial load piston downward
8.3 Consolidation—The objective of the consolidation against the specimen cap using controlled axial deformation as
phase of the test is to allow the specimen to reach equilibrium the loading criterion. Specimen drainage is permitted during
in a drained state at the effective consolidation stress for which
shear, and volume changes will be read from the burette.
a strength determination is required. During consolidation, data
Failure is reached slowly so that excess pore pressure is
is obtained for use in determining when consolidation is
dissipated under drained conditions.
complete and for computing a rate of strain to be used for the
shear portion of the test. The consolidation procedure is as 8.4.1 Prior to Axial Loading—Before initiating shear, per-
follows: form the following:
8.3.1 When the saturation phase of the test is completed, 8.4.1.1 Place the chamber in position in the axial loading
bring the axial load piston into contact with the specimen cap, device. Be careful to align the axial loading device, the axial
and record the reading on the deformation indicator. During load measuring device, and the triaxial chamber to prevent the
this procedure, take care not to apply an axial load to the application of a lateral force to the piston during shear.
specimen exceeding 0.5 % of the estimated axial load at 8.4.1.2 Bring the axial load piston into contact with the
failure. If continuous deformation monitoring is not being specimen cap to permit proper seating and realignment of the
used, after recording the reading, raise the piston a small piston with the cap. During this procedure, care should be
distance above the specimen cap, and lock the piston in place. taken not to apply an axial load to the specimen exceeding
8.3.2 With the specimen drainage valves closed, hold the 0.5 % of the estimated axial load at failure. If the axial
maximum back pressure constant and increase the chamber load-measuring device is located outside of the triaxial cham-
pressure until the difference between the chamber pressure and ber, the chamber pressure will produce an upward force on the
the back pressure equals the desired effective consolidation piston that will react against the axial loading device. In this
pressure. Consolidation to the final stress conditions may be case, start shear with the piston slightly above the specimen
performed. If continuous deformation monitoring is being cap, and before the piston comes into contact with the
used, loads must be applied to the piston to keep it in contact specimen cap, either (1) measure and record the initial piston
with the specimen cap. friction and upward thrust of the piston produced by the
8.3.3 Obtain an initial reading on the volume change device, chamber pressure and later correct the measured axial load, or
and then open appropriate drainage valves so that the specimen (2) adjust the axial load-measuring device to compensate for
may drain from both ends into the volume change device. At the friction and thrust. The value of the axial-load measuring
increasing intervals of elapsed time (0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 15, device reading should not exceed 0.1 % of the estimated failure
and 30 min and at 1, 2, 4, and 8 h, and so forth) observe and load when the piston is moving downward prior to contacting
record the volume change readings, and, if not already doing the specimen cap. If the axial load-measuring device is located
so, after the 15-min reading, record the accompanying defor- inside the chamber, it will not be necessary to correct or
mation indicator readings obtained by carefully bringing the compensate for the uplift force acting on the axial loading
piston in contact with the specimen cap. If volume change and device or for piston friction. However, if an internal load-
deformation indicator readings are to be plotted against the measuring device of significant flexibility is used in combina-
square root of time, the time intervals at which readings are tion with an external deformation indicator, correction of the
taken may be adjusted to those that have easily obtained square deformation readings may be necessary. In both cases, record
roots, for example, 0.09, 0.25, 0.49, 1, 4, and 9 min, and so the initial reading on the pore-water pressure measurement
forth. Depending on soil type, time intervals may be changed device immediately prior to when the piston contacts the
to convenient time intervals that allow for adequate definition specimen cap and the reading on the deformation indicator
of volume change versus time. when the piston contacts the specimen cap.
NOTE 18—In cases where significant amounts of fines may be washed 8.4.1.3 Check for pore pressure stabilization. Record the
from the specimen because of high initial hydraulic gradients, it is pore pressure. Close the drainage valves to the specimen, and
permissible to gradually increase the chamber pressure to the total desired
pressure over a period with the drainage valves open. If this is done,
measure the pore pressure change until stable. If the change is
recording of data should begin immediately after the total pressure is less than 5 % of the effective stress, the pore pressure is
reached. assumed to be stabilized. Reopen the drainage lines.

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 D7181 − 11
8.4.2 Axial Loading—Open the drainage valves before ap- 10. Calculation
plying axial load to dissipate excess pore pressures throughout 10.1 Initial Specimen Properties—Using the dry mass of the
the specimen at failure. To determine loading rate which will total specimen, calculate and record the initial water content,
allow pore pressure to dissipate. Assuming failure will occur volume of solids, initial void ratio, initial percent saturation,
after 4 % axial strain, a suitable rate of strain, , may be and initial dry unit weight. Calculate the specimen volume
determined from the following equations: from values measured in 6.2 or 6.3. Calculate the volume of
with side drain: solids by dividing the dry mass of the specimen by the specific
4% gravity of the solids (Note 19) and dividing by the density of
´˙ 5 (2) water. Calculate the void ratio by dividing the volume of voids
16t 90
by the volume of solids where the volume of voids is assumed
without side drain: to be the difference between the specimen volume and the
4% volume of the solids. Calculate dry density by dividing the dry
´˙ 5 (3) mass of the specimen by the specimen volume.
10t 90

where: NOTE 19—The specific gravity of solids can be determined in accor-

dance with Test Method D854 or it may be assumed based on previous test
t90 = time value obtained in 8.3.4. results.
If, however, it is estimated that failure will occur at a strain 10.2 Specimen Properties After Consolidation—Calculate
value other than 4 %, a suitable strain rate may be determined the specimen height and area after consolidation as follows:
using Eq 3 by replacing 4 % with the estimated failure strain. 10.2.1 Height of specimen after consolidation, Hc, is deter-
This rate of strain will provide for the sample to build up mined from the following equation:
minimal pore pressure during shear. H c 5H o 2DH o (4)
8.4.2.1 At a minimum, record load, deformation, and vol-
ume change values at increments of 0.1 % strain up to 1 % where:
strain and, thereafter, at every 1 %. Take sufficient readings to Ho = initial height of specimen, and
define the stress-strain curve; hence, more frequent readings DHo = change in height of specimen at end of
may be required in the early stages of the test and as failure is consolidation.
approached. Continue the loading to 15 % strain, except 10.2.2 The cross-sectional area of the specimen after con-
loading may be stopped when the principal stress difference solidation, Ac, shall be computed using one of the following
(deviator stress) has dropped 20 % or when 5 % additional methods. The choice of the method to be used depends on
axial strain occurs after a peak in principal stress difference whether shear data are to be computed as the test is performed
(deviator stress). (in which case Method A would be used) or on which of the
two methods, in the opinion of a qualified person, yield
9. Removing Specimen specimen conditions considered to be most representative of
those after consolidation. Alternatively, the average of the two
9.1 When shear is completed, perform the following:
calculated areas may be appropriate.
9.1.1 Close the specimen drainage valves. 10.2.2.1 Method A:
9.1.2 Remove the axial load and reduce the chamber and
V o 2DV sat2DV c
back pressures to zero. A c5 (5)
Hc
9.1.3 With the specimen drainage valves remaining closed,
quickly remove the specimen from the apparatus so that the where:
specimen will not have time to absorb water from the porous Vo = initial volume of specimen,
disks. DVc = change in volume of specimen during consolida-
9.1.4 Remove the rubber membrane (and the filter-paper tion as indicated by burette readings, and
DVsat = change in volume of specimen during saturation as
strips or cage from the specimen if they were used), and
follows: 3Vo [DHs/Ho].
determine the water content of the total specimen in accor-
dance with the procedure in Test Method D2216. (Free water where:
remaining on the specimen after removal of the membrane DHs = change in height of the specimen during saturation.
should be blotted away before obtaining the water content.) In
cases where there is insufficient material from trimmings for 10.2.2.2 Method B:
index property tests, that is, where specimens have the same V wf1V s
A c5 (6)
diameter as the sampling tube, the specimen should be weighed Hc
prior to removing material for index property tests and a where:
representative portion of the specimen used to determine its
Vwf = final volume of water (based on final water content),
final water content. Prior to placing the specimen (or portion
and
thereof) in the oven to dry, sketch or photograph the specimen
Vs = volume of solids as follows: ws/(Gspw)
showing the mode of failure (shear plane, bulging, and so
forth). where:

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 D7181 − 11

ws = specimen dry mass, where:

Gs = specific gravity of solids, and D(s1 – s3) = correction to be subtracted from the mea-
pw = density of water. sured principal stress difference (deviator
10.2.3 Using the calculated dimensions of the specimen stress),
after consolidation and either an assumed or measured specific Kfp = load carried by filter-paper strips per unit
gravity of solids, calculate the consolidated void ratio and length of perimeter covered by filter-paper,
percent saturation. Pfp = perimeter covered by filter-paper, and
Ac = cross-sectional area of specimen after
NOTE 20—The specimen will absorb water from the porous disks and consolidation.
drainage lines during the time it is being removed from the apparatus.
When this effect is significant, Method A will yield more reasonable For values of axial strain of 2 % or less, use the following
values. equation to compute the correction:
NOTE 21—In this test method, the equations are written such that
compression and consolidation are considered positive. 50´ 1 K fpP fp
D ~ s 1 2s 3 ! 5 (11)
Ac
10.3 Shear Data:
10.3.1 Calculate the axial strain, ´1, for a given applied axial where:
load as follows: ´1 = axial strain (decimal form) and other terms are the
DH same as those defined in subparagraph (1) of 10.3.3.1.
´ 15 (7) NOTE 23—For filter-paper generally used in triaxial testing, Kfp is
Hc
approximately 0.19 kN/m (1.1 lbf/in.).
where:
10.3.3.2 Correction for Rubber Membrane—Use the follow-
DH = change in height of specimen during loading as ing equation to correct the principal stress difference (deviator
determined from deformation indicator readings, and stress) for the effect of the rubber membrane if the error in
Hc = height of specimen after consolidation. principal stress difference (deviator stress) due to the strength
10.3.2 Calculate the cross-sectional area, A, for a given of the membrane exceeds 5 %:
applied axial load as follows: 4E m t m ´ 1
D ~ s 1 2s 3 ! 5 (12)
V c 2DV ´ Dc
A5 (8)
H c 2DH ´
where:
where: D(s1 – s3) = correction to be subtracted from the mea-
Vc = volume after consolidation, sured principal stress difference (deviator
DV´ = change in volume from beginning of shear to any stress),
strain, and Dc = =4A c /p diameter of specimen after consoli-
DH´ = change in height from beginning of shear to any dation,
strain. Em = Young’s modulus for the membrane material,
NOTE 22—The cross-sectional area computed in this manner is based on tm = thickness of the membrane, and
the assumption that the specimen deforms as a right circular cylinder ´1 = axial strain (decimal form).
during shear. In cases where there is localized bulging, it may be possible
to determine more accurate values for the area based on specimen (1) The Young’s modulus of the membrane material may
dimension measurements obtained after shear. be determined by hanging a 15-mm (0.5-in.) circumferential
10.3.3 Calculate the principal stress difference (deviator strip of membrane using a thin rod, placing another rod through
stress), s1 – s3, for a given applied axial load as follows: the bottom of the hanging membrane, and measuring the force
per unit strain obtained by stretching the membrane. The
P
s 1 2s 3 5 (9) modulus value may be computed using the following equation:
A

where:
E m5
F
S D
Am
(13)
P = given applied axial load (corrected for uplift and
piston friction if required as obtained in 8.4.1.3), and S D
DL
L
A = corresponding cross-sectional area.
where:
10.3.3.1 Correction for Filter-Paper Strips—For vertical
Em = Young’s modulus of the membrane material,
filter-paper strips that extend over the total length of the
F = force applied to stretch the membrane,
specimen, apply a filter-paper strip correction to the computed L = unstretched length of the membrane,
values of the principal stress difference (deviator stress), if the DL = change in length of the membrane due to the force, F,
error in principal stress difference (deviator stress) due to the and
strength of the filter-paper strips exceeds 5 %. Am = area of the membrane = 2tmWs
(1) For values of axial strain above 2 %, use the following
equation to compute the correction: where:
K fpP fp tm = thickness of the membrane, and
D ~ s 1 2s 3 ! 5 (10) Ws = width of circumferential strip, 0.5 in. (15 mm).
Ac

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 D7181 − 11
NOTE 24—A typical value of Em for latex membranes is 1400 kPa (200 11.1.6 Initial height and diameter of specimen,
lbf/in.). 11.1.7 Method followed for specimen saturation (that is, dry
NOTE 25—The corrections for filter-paper strips and membranes are
based on simplified assumptions concerning their behavior during shear.
or wet method),
Their actual behavior is complex, and there is not a consensus on more 11.1.8 Total back pressure,
exact corrections. 11.1.9 Effective consolidation stress,
10.4 Principal Stress Difference (Deviator Stress) and 11.1.10 Time to 100 % primary consolidation,
Change in Volume (DV) Versus Strain Curves—Prepare graphs 11.1.11 Specimen dry unit weight, void ratio, water content,
showing relationships between principal stress difference (de- and percent saturation after consolidation,
viator stress) and change in volume (DV) with axial strain, 11.1.12 Specimen cross-sectional area after consolidation
plotting deviator stress and DV as ordinates and axial strain as and method used for determination,
abscissa. Select the principal stress difference (deviator stress) 11.1.13 Failure criterion used,
and axial strain at failure in accordance with 3.2.3. 11.1.14 The value of the principal stress difference (deviator
stress) at failure and the values of the minor and major
10.5 Determine the major and minor principal stresses at principal stresses at failure, (indicate when values have been
failure based on stresses, s1f and s3f respectively as follows: corrected for effects due to membrane or filter strips, or both),
s 3f 5effective consolidation stress (14) 11.1.15 Axial strain at failure, percent,
s 1f 5 ~ s 1 2s 3 ! at failure1s 3f (15) 11.1.16 Rate of strain, percent per minute,
11.1.17 Principal stress difference (deviator stress) and
10.6 Mohr Stress Circles—If desired, construct Mohr stress change in volume versus axial strain curves as described in
circles at failure based on axial and radial stresses on an 10.4,
arithmetic plot with shear stress as ordinate and normal stress 11.1.18 Mohr stress circles based on axial and radial
as abscissa using the same scales. The circle based on total stresses, (optional),
stresses is drawn with a radius of one half the principal stress 11.1.19 Slope of angle of the failure surface (optional),
difference (deviator stress) at failure with its center at a value 11.1.20 Failure sketch or photograph of the specimen, and
equal to one half the sum of the major and minor principal 11.1.21 Remarks and notations regarding any unusual con-
stresses. ditions such as slickensides, stratification, shells, pebbles,
11. Report roots, and so forth, or other information necessary to properly
interpret the results obtained, including any departures from
11.1 Report the following information: the procedure outlined.
11.1.1 Identification data and visual description of speci-
men, including soil classification and whether the specimen is 12. Precision and Bias
intact, compacted, or otherwise prepared,
12.1 Precision—Test data on precision is not presented due
11.1.2 Values of plastic limit and liquid limit, if determined
to the nature of the soil materials tested by this procedure. It is
in accordance with Test Method D4318,
either not feasible or too costly at this time to have ten or more
11.1.3 Value of specific gravity of solids and notation if the
laboratories participate in a round-robin testing program.
value was determined in accordance with Test Method D854 or
Subcommittee D18.05 is seeking any data from users of this
assumed,
test method that might be used to make a limited statement on
11.1.4 Particle-size analysis, if determined in accordance
precision.
with Test Method D422,
11.1.5 Initial specimen dry unit weight, void ratio, water 12.2 Bias—There is no accepted reference value for this test
content, and percent saturation, (specify if the water content method, therefore, bias cannot be determined.
specimen was obtained from cuttings or the entire specimen),
13. Keywords
NOTE 26—The specific gravity determined in accordance with Test
Method D854 is required for calculation of the saturation. An assumed 13.1 back pressure saturation; consolidated drained
specific gravity may be used provided it is noted in the test report that an strength; effective stresses; non-cohesive soil; strain-controlled
assumed value was used. loading; stress-strain relationships

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