Lab Report 1
Lab Report 1
Lab Report 1
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING I
Abstract .......... i
Objectives .......... 1
References .......... 3
Appendices A .......... 4
Appendices B .......... 5
Objectives
The group’s objective for this laboratory activity is to gather samples of disturbed and
undisturbed soil. The activity is performed to obtain information on the physical properties of
the soil located on the chosen site. Adherence to the procedure is observed to preserve the
soil’s properties desired during the experiment and for further use. Additionally, the samples
can be use to determine nutrient content, composition, and other soil characteristics such as
the acidity or pH level.
Theoretical Background
Soil sampling is a method that can be used for exploration of geothermal resources
that lack obvious surface manifestations. Properly collecting soil samples is the most
important step in any nutrient/soil amendment management program for it helps ensure
reliability of test results for making informed decisions related to soil inputs such as fertilizer
and lime.
Tape Measure
Candle Wax
Cling Wrap
Shovel
Trowel
Crowbar
Empty Container
70-L Storage Box
Disturbed Soil
Undisturbed Soil
PROCEDURE
Analysis of Data
Discussion of results
The group was able to gather enough samples of disturbed and undisturbed soil. Heavy
rain is observed the day before the samples are gathered therefore the soil sample for
disturbed and undisturbed is moist. With about 5 in of the top soil removed, the obtained
disturbed soil sample appears to be dark brown, feels gritty, and stains fingers slightly. For
the undisturbed soil sample, it is dark brown just as well. It is noted that for the soil’s
structure, the soil aggregates are small, porous and adhere weakly together being prone to
disintegration with the slightest configuration on its shape.
Summary
The group performed soil sampling, labelling and storage on 13˚47’2” N 121˚4’28” E
Pinagtung ulan, San Jose, Batangas, at 11am with a temperature around 26 to 28 degree
Celsius and a weather condition of rainy. Trowel, shovel, crowbar, tape measure and bolo
were used in performing this activity.
Soil sampling, labelling and storage consist of digging and getting disturbed and
undisturbed soil samples which is to be used in the preceding laboratory activities. Disturbed
soil samples are inserted inside the plastic container and sack while undisturbed sample is
cling wrapped and waxed.
Other questions:
Answer: We need to perform soil sampling, labelling and storage in order to obtain disturbed
and undisturbed soil samples. Geotechnical engineers and geologists collect soil samples to
learn about the properties of the strata below the land surface. Scientists commonly test
disturbed soil samples for soil type and texture, moisture content and nutrient and
contaminant analysis, among other evaluations. Undisturbed samples allow an engineer to
determine the geotechnical properties of strength, permeability, compressibility and fracture
patterns among others and the results of these analyses are instrumental in the design of a
new building.
Answer: Proper care must be applied in getting the undisturbed sample. The undisturbed
sample must be properly wrapped and waxed in order to maintain its shape and moisture
content. Disturbed samples must be inserted in a good container to prevent alien species to
enter the sample.
References
https://openei.org/wiki/Definition:Soil_Sampling
https://www.pioneer.com/home/site/us/agronomy/library/soil-sampling-test-interpretation/
https://www.carlisle.k12.ky.us/.userfiles/1044/Classes/6685/040070.pdf
https://www.hunker.com/13406900/disturbed-vs-undisturbed-soil-sampling
Appendix A
Dig the corner part and make a rectangle area in the middle.
Collect the disturbed sample from the corners and place it in a plastic bag for the mean time.
Appendix B
Get the undisturbed sample carefully from the rectangle on the center.