Relationship between plasticity index and compression index of soil at Perlis

Abstract

Knowing the characteristics of soils is very important in preliminary stage of construction project. Comprehensive study of the soil should be done because in the geotechnical field, there are various parameters that need to know to understand the soil behavior before the design a structure. Experiments onto the soil are divided into three categories such as the determination of the chemical, physical and mechanical properties. This research is an initiative to review the relationship between physical properties and mechanical properties of the soil. Physical properties refer to the Atterberg Limit Test where is to determine Plasticity Index (PI). The Atterberg Limit Test is simple and rapid test. Meanwhile mechanical properties refer to One- Dimensional Consolidation Test (Oedometer Test) where this test is to determine Compression Index (Cc). The Oedometer Test is a complex, time consuming and expensive test if compared to other soil tests. This test was conducted on two different types of soil consisting a clay and laterite where that soil is taken around the state of Perlis. For clay, three locations involved which are Kampung Ujong Bukit, Kampung Behor Mempelam and Kampung Behor Mali. While for laterite soil was taken at Kampung Ulu Pauh, Kampung Kubang Perun and Kampung Kaki Bukit. For each location, the disturbed soils samples are taken at three different points and are indicated by P1, P2 and P3. In addition, Particle Size Distribution, Specific Gravity and pH test is also conducted to obtain more detailed information for the soil samples. Preparation of soil sample and the experimental procedure is based on BS1377 (1990). The results of this study have shown that, when the value of PI increases, the Cc will also be increased. From this research, relationship between PI and Cc is established. The Cc of soil sample can be identified by executing the PI. There is a helpful objective in this research which is to solve the site problem in a quick and efficient way.