Laboratory Testing

Laboratory testing is an integral part of geotechnical engineering research and practice. A well planned and properly executed laboratory testing program will provide soil and/or rock properties needed to perform geotechnical analyses and develop geotechnical models. Soil and rock samples needed for the tests have to be carefully obtained in the field and properly stored to get accurate results. However, disturbed specimens can also be used at some tests to determine geotechnical parameters that are not affected by disturbance (natural water content, Atterberg limits, etc.).  Most test procedures are based on specific standards followed worldwide. Consistent laboratory routines, suitable and well-maintained test equipment as well as proper interpretation of test results are essential to estimate the engineering characteristics of soil and rock materials to accurately predict their behavior.

Laboratory tests on Soils

Classification and Index Property Tests

• Water Content determination
• Density-Void ratio determination
• Atterberg Limits
• Particle Size Distribution
• Specific Gravity of soil solids
• Proctor Compaction

Strength and Deformation Testing

• Unconfined (Uniaxial) Compression
• One-Dimensional Consolidation or Swell Test
• Direct Shear Test
• Simple Shear test
• Triaxial Compression (UU, CU, CD) - Triaxial Extension test 

Permeability Testing

• Constant Head Testing Method – Mariotte Bottle
• Falling Head Testing Method

Laboratory Tests on Rocks

Index Properties

• Slake Durability Test
• Unit Weight determination
• Porosity Test
• Ultrasonic Wave Velocity 

Rock Strength Properties Tests

• Point Load test
• Uniaxial Compression Strength test
• Splitting Tensile Strength Test (Brazilian)
• Direct Shear test
• Triaxial Compression