ACTIVITY 6: ANALYSIS OF GRAIN SIZE

Grain Size Analysis (Mechanical Analysis)

Introduction
Soil grain size distribution analysis is a fundamental laboratory technique
essential for understanding the composition of soil samples. This analysis plays a
pivotal role in assessing the soil's suitability for supporting various construction
projects. Through methods like sieve analysis, students delve into determining the
distribution of particles within the soil. This technique involves employing a series of
sieves, each with varying aperture sizes, to sieve the soil sample. As the soil passes
through these sieves, particles are separated based on their sizes, allowing for a
comprehensive examination of the soil's granular makeup. The outcome provides a
detailed breakdown of particle sizes present, ranging from larger gravel and sand
particles to finer silts and clays.
The significance of soil grain size distribution analysis extends to its direct
impact on the stability and integrity of structures built upon it. Understanding the
distribution of soil particles is crucial in predicting the soil's behavior under different
loads and environmental conditions. By precisely identifying the proportions of
different-sized particles within the soil, engineers and architects gain invaluable
insights into its bearing capacity, permeability, and potential for settlement. This
knowledge serves as a cornerstone in making informed decisions regarding
foundation design, ensuring the safety and longevity of any construction endeavor.
Furthermore, the sieve analysis method offers a systematic approach to
quantifying soil particle sizes. By employing a range of sieves with progressively finer
mesh sizes, this technique facilitates a comprehensive breakdown of the soil's
composition. The resulting particle size distribution curve graphically represents the
percentages of various particle sizes, aiding in categorizing the soil type according to
standard classification systems. This empirical data serves as a fundamental
reference for professionals in the construction and geotechnical engineering fields,
guiding them in selecting appropriate construction methodologies and materials
tailored to the specific characteristics of the soil.
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING 1 – SOIL MECHANICS LABORATORY

Purpose of the Study

The primary objective of this study is to ascertain the particle size distribution
within a given soil sample. This investigation holds significance in enhancing our
understanding of soil classification and its inherent characteristics. Specifically, this
endeavor serves as a means to familiarize students with laboratory procedures,
providing them with hands-on experience in this domain.
By comprehensively assessing the particle sizes present in the soil, we aim to
refine its classification, enabling a more precise characterization of its properties.
This analysis facilitates insights into the soil's behavior under varying conditions,
such as load-bearing capacities and responses to environmental stimuli.
Moreover, this study serves as an invaluable educational opportunity for
students, offering practical exposure to laboratory methodologies. Through active
participation in the process of sieve analysis, students gain firsthand experience in
the separation and categorization of soil particles based on size. This experiential
learning cultivates a foundational understanding of soil mechanics and laboratory
techniques, fostering their development in the field of geotechnical sciences.

Materials and Equipment Used

In the pursuit of understanding soil particle distribution, students engaged in a
meticulous sieve analysis, employing a series of sieves characterized by varying
mesh sizes: sieve numbers 4, 10, 40, 60, 100, 140, and 200. These sieves, each
with their distinct aperture sizes, served as the primary apparatus for sifting and
segregating soil particles according to their sizes.
Facilitating this comprehensive analysis were complementary tools
instrumental in the process. An oven was utilized to thoroughly dry the soil samples,
ensuring an accurate assessment by removing any moisture content that could
influence the results. A precision weighing scale played a pivotal role in quantifying
the amounts of soil retained by each sieve, forming the basis for establishing the
particle size distribution. Additionally, a pan functioned as a receptacle, collecting the
sieved soil, thus facilitating a systematic progression through the sieving sequence
and ensuring precise measurements.
These materials collectively constituted the fundamental toolkit utilized by
students in executing the sieve analysis. Through their meticulous application,
students gained a firsthand understanding of how these tools synergistically
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING 1 – SOIL MECHANICS LABORATORY

contribute to unraveling the intricate nature of soil particle sizes, a cornerstone in soil
analysis and classification.

OVEN

SEIVE

WEIGHING SCALE

Procedure
The procedure for this activity commences with the critical step of oven-drying
the soil sample to eliminate any moisture, ensuring the samples attain a state of no
moisture and achieve a condition known as "SSD" (Saturated Surface Dry).
Following this, the dried soil is meticulously weighed within the prescribed range of
500 to 750 grams, as per the provided instructions.
Subsequently, the assembly of sieves takes place, arranged in descending
order from the sieve with the largest aperture size to the pan at the bottom. Once the
sieves are meticulously arranged, the dried soil sample is carefully placed atop the
uppermost sieve in the stack. To prevent spillage and ensure accuracy, the entire
assembly is covered securely.
With the sieves stacked and secured, the pivotal phase of manual agitation
begins. The sieves are vigorously shaken for a standardized duration of 10 minutes.
This rigorous shaking action effectively sieves the soil, allowing particles of varying
sizes to sift through each sieve based on their respective sizes.
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING 1 – SOIL MECHANICS LABORATORY

Following the agitation period, the stacks are carefully disassembled, and
each individual sieve layer is meticulously weighed. The weight recorded for each
sieve layer represents the quantity of particles of that specific size within the soil
sample. This meticulous weighing process serves as the basis for constructing the
particle size distribution curve and provides crucial insights into the soil's granular
makeup.
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING 1 – SOIL MECHANICS LABORATORY

Results and Discussion

GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS (MECHANICAL ANALYSIS) DATA SHEET
TESTED BY: CORTEL’S GROUP DATE TESTED: 12/08/2023
TEMPERATURE: 110˚C RECOVERY DEPTH: 2 METERS
RECOVERY DATE: RECOVERY METHOD: SHOVELLING
SOIL DESCRIPTION:
Table 1 Grain Size Analysis Data Sheets

Table 2. Test Details

TEST DETAILS
SEIVE SHAKING METHOD: MANUAL SHAKING SHAKING DURATION: 10
TOTAL SAMPLE MASS BEFORE SIEVE: 750G MINUTES
TOTAL SAMPLE MASS AFTER SIEVE: 750G
PERCENT LOSS DURING SEIVE: 0%

Table 3. Measurements and Calculations

Sieve Dia Mass Mass Mass Accu % Accu Percent
no. meter of the of the of Soil mulated Retaine mulated Passin
r Sieve Sieve Retai Mass d Retaine g%
(mm) (g) + Soil ned d
Sampl
e
4 4.75 488.4 488.4 0 0 0 0 100
10 2.00 685 849 164 164 21.87 21.87 78.13
40 0.425 370.2 730.8 360.6 524.6 48.08 69.95 30.05
60 0.25 430.6 499.2 68.6 593.2 9.15 79.1 20.91
100 0.150 345.8 400.4 54.6 647.8 7.28 86.38 13.63
140 0.106 319.4 345.4 26 673.8 3.47 89.85 10.15
200 0.075 295.2 323.2 28 701.8 3.73 93.58 6.42
Pan 367.6 415.2 47.6 749.4 6.35 99.93 0.07
Σ 749.4 4054.6 99.93% 540.66
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING 1 – SOIL MECHANICS LABORATORY

The grain size analysis, conducted by Cortel’s Group, aimed to discern the
composition of a soil sample recovered from a depth of 2 meters via shoveling. The
analysis, performed at a temperature of 110˚C, commenced with an oven-drying
process to eliminate moisture, ensuring the sample's consistency.
Using a manual shaking method for 10 minutes, the sieving process
maintained the total sample mass at 750 grams, with zero percent loss recorded
during the sieving stages. This ensured accuracy and completeness in the analysis.
The data obtained from the mechanical analysis showcased the distribution of
soil particles across different sieve sizes. Beginning with the largest sieve (4.75mm),
no soil was retained, indicating the absence of particles exceeding this size. As the
sieve sizes decreased, the quantity of soil retained increased progressively. Notably,
the coarser particles primarily accumulated in the larger sieves (4, 10, 40), while the
finer particles exhibited higher retention in the smaller sieves (60, 100, 140, 200).
This trend culminated in a minimal amount of soil retained on the pan sieve,
signifying the presence of predominantly finer particles.
The cumulative percentage retained on each sieve, when plotted against
sieve size, revealed a characteristic particle size distribution curve. This curve
illustrated a dominance of coarser particles transitioning gradually to finer ones, a
crucial insight into the soil's composition. Notably, while the majority of soil particles
were coarser, a significant proportion of finer particles contributed to the overall
composition, making it a diverse soil sample in terms of particle sizes.

Table 4. Shape, Filter, and Other Parameter

CLASSIFICATION PERCENTAGE
COBBLES 0%
GRAVEL 0%
SAND 93.65%
SILT AND CLAY 6.35%

The classification breakdown of the soil sample based on particle sizes

reveals a significant dominance of sand, constituting approximately 93.65% of the
sample. This substantial percentage denotes a prevalent presence of medium-sized
particles within the soil. In contrast, the finer particles, categorized as silt and clay,
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING 1 – SOIL MECHANICS LABORATORY

make up the remaining 6.35% of the sample. Notably, there were no discernible
cobbles or gravel present in this particular soil sample, indicating an absence of
larger-sized particles. This classification underscores the predominantly sandy
nature of the soil, with a minor yet consequential presence of finer silt and clay
particles, delineating its composition and suitability for various construction or
geotechnical applications.

Table 5. Effective Grain Size on Certain Percent Passing

PERCENT PASSING EFFECTIVE SIEVE SIZE (MM)
D10 0.105
D30 0.424
D60 1.406
UNIFORMITY COEFFECIENT (CU) 13.390
COEFFICIENT OF CURVATURE (CC) 1.218

PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION CURVE

120
Cumulative Percentage Passing

100

80

60

40

20

0
0.01 0.1 1 10

Figure 1. Particle Size

Sieve Distribution Curve
Size

The particle size distribution characteristics outlined in the paragraph were

extracted and analyzed from a graph depicting the soil's granular composition. The
D10, D30, and D60 values—0.105 mm, 0.424 mm, and 1.406 mm, respectively—
highlight specific particle sizes wherein 10%, 30%, and 60% of the soil particles pass
through the sieves. Complementing these values, the derived Uniformity Coefficient
(CU) of 13.390 and Coefficient of Curvature (CC) of 1.218 were derived from the
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING 1 – SOIL MECHANICS LABORATORY

graphical representation of the particle size distribution curve. These metrics

collectively offer an intricate understanding of the soil's particle distribution and
uniformity, providing crucial insights into its engineering and geotechnical properties.
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING 1 – SOIL MECHANICS LABORATORY

Discussion
The dataset provided through grain size analysis offers a comprehensive
glimpse into the composition and distribution of soil particles. Cortel’s Group
conducted a meticulous assessment of a soil sample recovered from a depth of 2
meters, employing standardized methods such as oven drying, manual shaking of
sieves, and precise measurements to ensure accuracy. This analysis revealed a
distinct particle size distribution characterized by varying proportions of soil retained
on different sieves. Beginning with the largest sieve (4.75mm), indicating the
absence of larger particles, the data showcased a progressive accumulation of soil
on successively smaller sieves. Notably, coarser particles predominantly resided in
larger sieves (4, 10, 40), while finer particles exhibited higher retention in smaller
ones (60, 100, 140, 200), culminating in minimal retention on the pan sieve,
signifying an abundance of finer particles.
Moreover, the classification of the soil sample based on particle sizes
delineated a predominant presence of sand constituting 93.65% of the sample,
highlighting its medium-sized particle dominance. Contrarily, finer particles classified
as silt and clay constituted 6.35% of the sample, indicating a smaller yet
consequential presence. Notably, the absence of cobbles or gravel suggests a lack
of larger-sized particles in this soil sample, affirming its predominantly sandy nature
with traces of finer silt and clay particles.
Further insights gleaned from the data include specific effective grain sizes,
represented by D10, D30, and D60 values, signifying the particle sizes at which
10%, 30%, and 60% of the soil particles pass through the sieves, respectively.
These values, coupled with the calculated Uniformity Coefficient (CU) and
Coefficient of Curvature (CC), illustrate the soil's particle size distribution and
uniformity, crucial in assessing its engineering properties.
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING 1 – SOIL MECHANICS LABORATORY

Conclusion
The culmination of the grain size analysis offers a comprehensive
understanding of the soil's composition, underscored by distinct particle size
distributions. The purpose of this activity was to unravel the intricacies of particle
sizes within the soil, and the obtained data vividly portray the diverse nature of the
sample.
The results prominently showcase a prevalence of sand particles, comprising
approximately 93.65% of the soil sample, with finer particles of silt and clay
contributing 6.35%. This composition, devoid of larger particles such as cobbles or
gravel, paints a picture of predominantly medium-sized particles, defining the soil's
characteristics.
The rationale behind these results lies in various natural and anthropogenic
factors. The soil's formation and transformation, influenced by weathering processes,
geological history, and human activities, contribute to its granular makeup. For
instance, the dominance of sand might align with the soil's origin from weathered
rocks or sedimentary deposits with a higher proportion of quartz particles.
Furthermore, human interventions, such as land use practices or construction
activities, can alter soil composition over time.
The absence of larger particles like cobbles or gravel might indicate certain
environmental conditions during soil formation or post-deposition processes that
favored the retention or removal of such particles. It could also imply selective
transportation or sieving processes that filtered out coarser materials.
The significance of these results extends beyond mere composition. They
hold critical implications for engineering, construction, land use planning, and
environmental conservation. Understanding the soil's particle size distribution aids in
designing stable foundations, assessing drainage capabilities, planning infrastructure
projects, and making informed decisions in agriculture and environmental
management.
In conclusion, the grain size analysis illuminates the intricate nature of soil
particle distributions, underscoring the importance of these insights in diverse fields.
These results serve as a cornerstone for informed decision-making, ensuring the
efficient, sustainable, and safe interaction between human activities and the natural
environment.
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING 1 – SOIL MECHANICS LABORATORY

Reference
Hossain, M. S., PhD PE. (2021, January 14). Sieve analysis. Pressbooks.
https://uta.pressbooks.pub/soilmechanics/chapter/sieve-analysis/
López, G. I. (2016). Grain size analysis. In Encyclopedia of earth sciences (pp. 341–
348). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-4409-0_18
Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. (2023, July 19). Definition of Grain Size
Analysis | Partner ESI. https://www.partneresi.com/resources/glossary/grain-
size-analysis/
Song, G., & Xu, Z. (2013). Surface processing and alloying to improve the corrosion
resistance of magnesium (Mg) alloys. In Elsevier eBooks (pp. 110–134).
https://doi.org/10.1533/9780857098962.2.110
Step-by-Step Guide for grain size analysis. (n.d.). Geoengineer.org.
https://www.geoengineer.org/education/laboratory-testing/step-by-step-guide-
for-grain-size-analysis#:~:text=Grain%20size%20analysis%20is
%20a,0.075%20mm%20to%20100%20mm.
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