IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

( Reaffirmed 2006 )
Indian Standard
METHODS OF TEST FOR SOILS
PART 4 GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS

( Second Revhion )

Second Reprint SEPTEMBER 1994

UDC 624’131’431’6

0 Copyrfghf 1986

BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS

MANAK BHAVAN, 9 BAHADUR SHAH ZAFAR MARG
NEW DELHI-110002

GI 8 Jumuzrv 1986
 IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

Indian Standard
METHODS OF TEST FOR SOILS
PART 1 GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS

( Second Revision)

Soil Engineering Sectional Committee, BDC 23

CA Rrpresmring
Sarrr SHAXOH~~ P~AKASH Cent;~or~~~lding Research Institute ( CSIR ),

IuIlnbrrs
PRov At.~n Srxox University of Jodhpur, Jodhpur
SERI B. AXJIAB Engineering Research Laboratories, Government
of Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad
CHIEF ENQIN’EEB (IPRI ) Irrigation Department, Government of Punjab,
Chandigarh
DI~~CTOX (DAM) ( Altemu#r )
SEXI C. S. DAXKE Howe ( India ) Pvt Ltd, New Delhi
SHSI G. V. MUXTXY ( Alumah)
Sxxar A. G. DA~TXDA~ In personal capacity (5 Hungerford Court, 12/l,
ifuagerf+rd Street, Calcatla )
DXRBCTOB ( D 6 QPC ) Public Works Department, Government of Uttar
Pradesh, Lucknow
DEPUTY DIRECTOB ( B k SD ) ( Altrmatr )
DI~~OTOB, IRI Irrigation Department, Government of Uttar
Pradesh, Roorkee
DIX~CTO~ Central Soil & Materials Research Station, New
Delhi
DEPUTY DIRECTOR ( All&#)
SHRI A. H. DIVANJI Asia Foundations & Construction (P)
. , Ltd.
Bombay
Saxt A. N. JANGLE ( Alrrrnorr )
Da GOPAL RANJAN University of Roorkee, Roorkee; and Inatitute of
Engineers ( India ), Calcutta
Satax S. GVPTA Cemindia Company Limited, Bombay
SHPI N. V. D~-SOU~A ( Altwtwta )

( Uhtinued on pop 2 )

Q mhf 1966
BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS
‘I’hia publication is protected under the tadran C@yright Act (XIV of 1957 ) and
raproductiox in whole or in part by any maans except with written permission of the
publirhor rhall be deemed to be an infringement of copyright undet the said Act.
i
IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

Members Representing
SHRI M. IYENQAR Engineers India Limited, New Delhi
SHRI Asao~ K. JAIN G. S. Jain & Associates, New Delhi
5 HRI VIJAY K. JAIN ( Altcrnatc )
JOINT DIRECTOR RESEAROE (GE)-I, Ministry of Railways
RDSO
JOINT DXRECTOR RESEARCE
(GE)-11 RDSO ( Altrrnats )
SRRI A. V. S. R. MUI~TY fndian Geotecbnical Society, New Delhi
SHRI D. R. NARAHARI Central Building Research Institute ( CSIR ),
Roorkee
SHRI T. K. NATRAJAN Central Road Research Institute ( CSIR ), New
Delhi
SHRI RAXJI~ SlSGU Ministry of Defence ( R & D )
SHI:I V. R. GIIORPA~E ( Alternate)
DR G. V. RAO Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi
DR K. K. GUPTA ( Alternate)
RESEARCH OFFICER ( B & RRL ) Public Works Department, Government of Punjab,
Chandigarh
SECI~I~TARY Central Board of Irrigation & Power, New Delhi
DIRZC.POR (C) ( Alternate )
SHHI N. SIVA~URU Roads Wing (Ministry of Shipping & Transport )
SHRI U. JAYAI<OnE ( Alternate )
SHRI K. s. SKINIVAShT4 National Buildings Organization, New Delhi
SIiKI SUNIL BERRY ( Aftematc )
DK N. Sov Jadavpur University, Calcutta
Karnataka Engineering Research Station,
Krishnarajasagar
COL R. Ii. SU~>HINDRA Ministry of Defence ( Engineer-in-Chief’s Branch)
SHRI S. S. JOYHI ( .+ihmatc )
SXJPERINTEN~~~INQENQINEER Public Works Department, Government of Tamil
(P&DC) Nadu, IMadras
EXECUTIVE ENGINEER ( SMRD)
( Alternalc )
SHEI H. c. VERJlA All India Instrument Manufacturers & Dealers
Association, Bombay
Snn~ H. K. Guan ( Alternate j
SRRI G. RAMAX, Director General, IS1 ( Ex-o&i Member )
Director ( Civ Engg )
Sccrctary
SHRI K. M. MATWJR
Joint Director ( Civ Engg ), IS1

Soil Testing Procedures Subcommittee, BDC 23 : 3

Convener
Da ALAM SINGE Univenity of Jodhpur, Jodhpur

Mmibns
SHRI hAR SlNGR Cent;rar;$elding Research Institute ( CSIR ),

SHRl M. R. SOlPEJA ( Altcrnutr )

2
 IS :2720 (Part 4) - 1985

Indian Standard
METHODS OF TEST FOR SOILS
PART 4 GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS

( Second Revision)
0. FOREWORD
0.1 This Indian Standard ( Part 4) ( Second Revision ) was adopted by
the Indian Standards Institution on 25 January 1985, after the draft
finalized by the Soil Engineering Sectional Committee had been approved
by the Civil Engineering Division Council.

0.2 With a view to establishing uniform procedures for determination of

different characteristics of soils and also for facilitating comparative studies
of the results, this standardon methods of test forsoils ( IS : 2720 ) is being
issued in parts. This part which was originally published in 1965 and
revised in 1975 deals with the method for the determination of grain size
distribution in soils. An analysis of this kind express quantitatively the
proportions by mass of the various sizes of particles present in the soil.
In a soil the gravel, sand silt and clay fractions are recognized as
containing particles of decreasing magnitude. The actual range of
dimensions of the particles are given in IS : 1498-1970*. The results of
a grain size analysis may also be represented graphically in the form of a
grain size distribution curve in which the cumulative percentages finer
than known equivalent grain sizes are plotted against these sizes, the
latter being on a logarithmic scale. The results of grain size analysis are
widely used in soil classification. The data obtained from grain size
distribution curves is used in the design of filters for earth dams to
determine the suitability of soils for road construction.
0.2.1 In this second revision of the standard, grain sizes have been
brought in line with IS : 1498-1970+. A plummet balance method as an
alternative method has been included.

0.3 In reporting.the result of a test or analysis made in accordance with

this standard, if the final value, observed or calculated, is to be rounded
off, it shall be done in accordance with IS : 2-1960t.

*Classification and identification of roil for general engintermg purposes

( jrsr r&km ).
*Ruler for routiding off numerical values ( rcvirsd).

3
fS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

1. SCOPE

1.1 This standard ( Part 4 ) covers the method for the quantitative
determination of grain size distribution in soils.

-1.l;l Two methods are iven for finding the distribution of grain sizes
larger than 75-micron I s Sieve; the first method, wet sievings shall
be applicable to all soils and the second, dry sieving, shall be applicable
only to soils which do not have an appreciable amount of clay.

1.1.2 For the determination of distribution of grain sizes smaller

than 75-microns the pipette method is given as the standard method; the
hydrometer method is given as a subsidiary method. This method shall
not applicable if less than 10 percent of the material passes the 75-micron
IS Sieve ( determined as given in 4 ).

2. TERMINOLOGY
2.1 For the purpose of this standard, the definitions given in
IS : 2809-1972. shall apply.

3. FIEVE ANALYSIS OF SOILS FRACTION RETAINED ON

4.75 mm IS SIEVE (DRY METHOD )

3.1 Apparatus

3.1.1 Balance - sensitive to 0.1 percent of the weight of sample to be

weighed.

3.1.2 Sieves- IOO-mm IS Sieve, 75-mm IS Sieve, 19-mm IS Sieve

and J-75-mm IS Sieve conforming to the requirement of
’ 4 : 460 ( Part 1 )- 1978t.

3.1.3 Rubber Pestle and Mortar

3.2 Preparation of Sample -The soil sample received from the field
shall be prepared as specified in IS : 2720 (Part 1 )-1983:. The soil
fractions retained on and passing 4’75-mm IS Sieve shai. be taken
separately for the analysis.

3.3 Procedure - The portion of the soil sample retained on 4*75-mm

IS Sieve, selected as given in 3.2, shall be weighed and the mass recorded

*Glossary of terms and symbols relating to soils mechanics (fist reotiion ).

*Specification for test sieves : Part 1 Wire cloth test sieves ( suondrcuirion
).
:Methods of test for soils: Part 1 Preparation of dry soil sampler for va:iour tests
( rrcond w:’ :e?I) .

4
 IS t 2720 ( Part 4) - 1985

as the mass of the sample uncorrected for hygroscopic moisture. The

quantity of the soil sample~taken shall depend on the maximum particle
size contained in the soil ( see Note 1 ). The sample shall be separated into
various fractions by sieving through the Indian Standard Sieves specified
in 3.1.2. Other sieves may be introduced between the sieves mentioned
in 3.13 depending upon the additional information that may be desired
to be obtained from the analysis. While sieving through each sieve, the
sieve shall be agitated so that the sample rolls in irregular motion over the
Sieve. Any particles may_ be tested to see if they will fall through but
Ihey shall not be pushed through. The material from the sieve may be
rubbed, if necessary, with the rubber pestle in the mortar taking care to
see that individual soil particles are not broken and re-sieved to make
sure that only individual particles are retained. The quantity taken each
time for sieving on each sieve shall be such that the maximum weight of
material retained on each sieve at the com$etion of sieving does not
exceed the values given in Note 2.

NOTE 1 -Depending on thr maximum size of material present in substantial

quantities in the soil, the mass of soil sample taken for analysis may be as follows:

Moxit~m Size of Mass to be taken

Material Present in for Test
Substnntiol Quantities
mm kg
75 60
40 25
25 13
19 6.5
12’5 3.5
10 1.5
6.5 0.75
4-75 0’4

NOTE 2 -Maximum weight of material to be retained on each sieve at the

completion of sieving shall be as follows:

IS Sirrc 450~mm Dia 300~mm ~Dia

Dtsignahon Simgs &L&S
kg kg
80-mm 15 6
20.mm 4 2
475 mm 1’0 0’5

The mass of the material retained on each sieve shall be recorded.

If the sample appears to contain over 5 percent moisture, the water
content of the material shall be determined in accordance with

5
IS m:2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

IS : 2720 ( Part 2 )-1973” and the masses corrected accordingly. When

the sample contains less than 5 percent moisture it is not necessary to
determine the water content for dry weight computations and all the
determinations may be made on the basis of wet weight only. If the soil
contains more than about 20 percent gravel particles and the fines are
very cohesive with considerable amounts adhering to the gravel after
separation, the gravel shall be washed on 4*75-mm IS Sieve using sodium
hexametaphosphate solution, if necessary. For further analysis a fresh
portion of the fraction passing 4’75-mm IS Sieve shall be taken,

3.4 Calculations - The percentage of soil retained on each sieve shall

be calculated on the basis of the total mass of soil sample taken and from
these results the percentage passing through each -of the sieves shall be
calculated.

4. SIEVE ANALYSIS OF SOIL PASSING +75 mm IS SIEVE

AND RETAINED ON 75-MICRON IS SIEVE

4.1 Apparatus

4.1.1 Balance - Sensitive to 0.1 percent of the mass of sample to be

weighed.

4.1.2 Siems - The following Indian Standard Sieves conforming to

IS : 460 ( Part 1 )-19787:
2-mm IS Sieve, 425-micron IS Sieve, and 75-micron IS Sieve.
The sieves should be periodically checked up for aperture sizes.

4.1.3 Oven- Thermostatically controlled to maintain the temperature

between 105 and 1 lO”C, with interior of non-corroding material.

4.1.4 Trays or Bucket -two or more large metal or plastic watertight

trays or a bucket about 30 cm in diameter and -30 cm deep ( convenient
sizes of the trays are in the range of 45 to 90 cm” and 8 to 15 cm deep ).

4.1.5 Brushes - sieve brushes and a wire brush or similar stiff brush.

4.1.6 Mortar with a Rubber Cove+ Pestle

4.1.7 Mechanical Sieve Shaker ( Optional )

4.1.8 Rt@r
--
*Methodsof test for Ioils:Part 2 Determinationof water content ( rrcmdr&&m).
tspecificationfor test aiever: Part 1 Wiro clofh tentliev*m
( suodr&rion).

6
 IS:2720 (Part4) --1985

4.2 Reagents - sodium hexametaphosphate ( chemically pure ) or a

mixture of sodium hydroxide ( conforming to IS : 376-1976* ) and sodium
carbonate ( analytical grade conforming to IS : 296-19747 ) or any other
dispersing agent which has been found suitable.

4.3 Procedure
4.3.1 Analysis by Wet Sieving - The portion of the soil passing 4*75-mm
IS Sieve obtained as given in 3.2 shall be oven-dried at 105 to 110°C.
The oven-dried material shall then be riffled so that a fraction of
convenient mass is obtained. This shall be about 200 g if a substantial
proportion of the material only, just passes the 4’75-mm IS Sieve or less
if the largest size is smaller. The fraction shall be weighed too-1 percent
of its total mass and the mass recorded. The riffled and weighed fraction
shall be spread out in the large tray or bucket and covered with water.

4.3.1.1 Two grams of sodium hexametaphosphate or one gram of

sodium hydroxide and one gram of sodium carbonate perlitre of water
used should then be added to the soil ( see Note 1 ). The mix should be
thoroughly stirred and left for soaking. The soil soaked specimen should
be washed thoroughly over the nest of sieves specified in 4.1.2 ( see Note 2 )
nested in order of their fineness with the finest sieve ( 75-micron IS Sieve )
at the~bottom. Washing shall be continued until the water passing each
sieve is substantially clean. Care shall be taken to see that the sieves are
not overlbaded in the process ( see Note 3 ). The fraction retained on each
sieve should be emptied carefully without any loss of material in separate
trays. Oven dried at 105 to 110°C and each fraction weighed separately
and the masses recorded.

Alternatively, the soaked soil specimen may be washed on the

75-micron IS Sieve until the water passing the sieve is substantially clean.
The fraction retained on the sieve should be tipped without loss of
material in a try, dried in the oven and sieved through the nest of sieves
specified in 4.1.2 (see Note 2 ) either by hand or by using mechanical
sieve shaker. The fraction retained on each sieve should be weighed
separately and the masses recorded.
NOTE 1 - The amount of dispersing-agent may be varied depending on the type
of soil. A dispersing agent may not be required in the case of all soils; in such cases
the wet sieving may be carried out without the addition of dispersing agent.

NOTE 2 - The sieves listed in 4.1.2 correspond to the limits of coarse, medium
and fine sand specified in IS : 1498-1970$. Other sieves may be introduced depending
on the additional information that may be desired to be obtained from the analysis.,

*Specification for sodium hydroxide, analytical reagent ( second reui~ion ).

tSpecification for sodium carbonate, anhydrous (second rcuision ).
$Classification and identification of soils for general engineering purposes
(Jrsr reLGwl ) .

7
IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

N~%TE 3 - The permissible maximum mass of sample on the 2@mm diameter

sieves shall be as follows:
IS S&c Design&m Madmum Mass of Sum&
II
Z-mm 200
425-micron 50
7.5micron 25

4.3.2 Analysis by Dry Sieving

4.3.2.0 In the case of clayey soils this method shall not be used; wet
sieving shall be used.
4.3.2.1 The portion of thesoil passing 4.75-mm IS Sieve obtained as
in 3.2 shall be oven-dried at 105 to 110°C and weighed to 0.1 percent of
its total mass.

The sieve or sieves shall be agitated so that the sample rolls in

irregular motion over the sieve. No .particle shall be pushed through
the sieve. The material retained on the sieve shall be rubbed with the
rubber pestle in mortar in re-sieved to make sure that only individuaA
particles are retained .on the sieve. The amount retained on the sieve
shall be weighed. The material retained in the receiver shall be
transferred to a steel tray and the receiver fitted to the nest largest sized
sieve. The contents of the steel tray shall then be placed on this sieve and
the operations indicated above repeated. These operations shall be
repeated through all the sieves specified in 4.1.3 ( see ,Note 2 of 4.3.1.1 ).
If a mechanical shaker is available these-tests may be performed in one
operation. Care shall be taken to ensure that sieving is complete. A
minimum of 10 minutes shaking shall be used. The soil fraction retained
on each sieve shall be carefully collected in containers and the mass of
each fraction determined and recorded.

4.4 Calculation - The cumulative mass of soil fraction retained on each

sieve shall be calculated. The percentage of soil fraction retained on each
sieve shall be calculated on the basis of the mass of the sample passing
4’75-mm IS Sieve taken for the initial analysis. The combined gradation
on the basis of the total soil sample taken for analysis shall then be
calculated.

5. GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS OF THE FRACTION PASSING

75-MICRON IS SIEVE OUT OF THE PORTION PASSING
4’75-mm IS SIEVE
5.1 Pipette Method ( Standard Method )
5.1.0 This method is not applicable if less than 10 percent of the
material passes 75-micron IS Sieve as obtained in 4.3.1.

8
 IS : 2720( Part 4 ) - 1985

5.1.1 Apparatus
5.1.1.1 Samplingpipcttc - of the type illustrated in Fig. 1 fitted with
a pressure and suction inlet and having a capacity of approximately 10 ml.
The’pipette shall be so arranged that it can be inserted to a fixed depth
into a sedimentation tube when the latter is immersed in a constant
temperature bath ( see also Fig. 4).

-5.1.1.2 Glass sedimentation tubes - a minimum of two of 50 mm

diameter and approximately 350 mm long marked at 500mml volume with
rubber bungs to fit.

5.1.1.3 Weighing bottles - required number, fitted with round

stoppers or crucibles with suitable lids approximately 25 mm in diameter
and 50 mm high. The bottles or crucibles shall be weighed to the
nearest 0.001 gram.

5.1.1.4 Constant temperature bath -- capable of being maintained at

27 f O*l”C, into which the sedimentation tube can be immersed up to
500 ml mark. The bath shall not vibrate the sample ( optional ).

5.1.1.5 Stirring apparatus - a mechanical ~stirring device in which a

suitable mounted electric motor turns a vertical shaft at a speed of 8 000
to 10 000 rev/min when loaded. The shaft ihall be equipped with a
replaceable stirring paddle of either of the types shown in Fig. 2 and,
made of metal, plastic or hard rubber. The shaft shall be of such length
that the stirring paddle will operate neither less than 20 mm nor more
than 35 mm above the bottom of the dispersion cup. A specia! dispersion
cup conforming to either of the designs shown in Fig. 3 shall be provided
to hold-the sample while it is being dispersed.

The container and baffles shall be of such material as will not be

attacked by the reagents placed in the container. The motion of the soil
suspension shall be su!Kcient ~to mix the contents thoroughly but it shall
not be so vigorous that the particles will be crushed or lost through
splashing; neither shall it be so sluggish as to leave unmixed material in
the bottom of the container.

NOTE - Any other suitable dispersing dswice, such as mrchanical bottle shaker e
and air-jet dispersing device which produce comparable disprrsion of the soil may
ak.o be used.

5.1.1.6 Siwes - 2-mm, 425-micron, 75-micron ‘IS Sieves and receiver.

5.1.1.7 Balance -to weigh up to 0.001 g.

5.1.1.8 Oven - thermostatically controlled to maintain temperature

of 105 to 1 lO”C, will interior of non-corroding material.
IS t 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

BUB CAPACITY

NOTE - Bore of tube to be 4 mm 4 where possible.

All dimensions in millimetres.

FIG.1 SAMPLING PIPETTE

10
 IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

CHROMIUM PLATED 7

PUNCH 54or02 cb

1*25mm THiCK SHEET

--_I_

-7
All dimensions in millimetres.
FIG. 2 STIRRING PADDLES FOR STIRRING APPARATUS

BAFFLE RODS-

. ..*-.. BRASS BASE-I

PLAN
All dimensions in millimctres.
FIG. 3. DISPERSION Curs

11
IS : 2720 ( Part 4) - 1985

5.1.1.9 Sbl, zmfc-h

5.1.1.10 Desiccator
5.1.1.11 Evuvclpcratingdish
5.1.1.12 Cortical beaker - 650 ml or one litre capacity and a cover
glass to fit and a smaller beaker.

5.1.1.13 Ftct~~cl-- Buchner or Hirch about 7 cm in diameter.

5.1.1.14 Filter flask - to take the funnel ( about 500 ml ).

5.1.1.15 Measuring cylinder - 100 ml capacity.

5.1.1.16 Pipette - 25 ml capacity.

5.1.1.17 Glass jilter j%nnel - about 10 cm in diameter.

5J.1.18 Wash bottle - containing distilled water.

5.1.1.19 Filter papers

5.1.1.20 Blue litmus pape:
5.1.1.21 Glass rod - about 15 to 20 cm long, 4 to 5 mm in diameter
fitted at one end with a rubber policeman.

5.1.1.22 Thermometer - 0 to 5O”C, accurate to 0*5+X.

5.13 Reagents - The reagents shall be of analytical quality.

5.1.2.1 Hydrogen peroxide - 20 volume solution.

5.X.2.2 Hydrochloric acid approximately N solution - 89 ml of

concel.trated hydrochloric acid ( specific gravity 1.18 ) diluted with
distilled water to make one litre of solution.

5.1.2.3 Sodium hexametaphosphate solution - Dissolve 33 g of sodium

hexametaphosphate and seven grams of sodium carbonate in distilled
:Nafcr to make one litre of solution.
,YGTE 1-- This solution is unstable and shall be freshly prepared approximately
once a month. The datp of preparation shall be recorded on the bottle.
NO.I*E2 - Sollltion hexametaphosphate has been found to be ineffective when
d,,a!ing with certain highlv flocculated soils. In such cases incomplete dispersion
obtained is indicated by the formation of relatively large crumbs or flocks of soil
which fall rapidly through the water leaving a sharply defined clear Inyrr above the
suspension and in such cases dispersion may be carried out by adding N sodium
hydroxide solution at the rate of 4 ml per 10 g of soil.
SOYE 3 -Any other dispersing agent which has been proved suitable fat
dispersing soils may be Gsed.

12
 IS : 2720 ( Part 4) - 1985

5.1.3 Procedure

5.1.3.0 If the soil fraction passing 75-micron IS Sieve during wet

sieving specified in 4.3.1 has been collected, this can be oven-dried and
used for pipette analysis, provided the soil has been pre-treated as specified
in 5.1.3.2. Where necessary, the oven-dried fraction shall be powdered in
a mortar with a rubber covered pestle taking care that the individual
grains are not crushed. 25 to 50 g ( depending on the soil type) of this
soil shall be used for the andlysis. The other relevant portions of the
procedure specified in 5.1.3, 5.1.3.1, 5.1.3.3 and 5.1.3;4, shall be followed
for further analysis.

85.1.3.1 Calibration of sampling Pipette - The sampling pipette shall be

thoroughly cleaned and dried and the nozzle shall be immersed in
distilled water. The tap B shall be closed and the tap E opened ( see
Fig. 4). By means of a rubber tube attached to C, water shall be sucked
up in the pipette until it rises above E. The tap E shall be ciosed and
the pipette removed from the water. Surplus water drawn up into the
cavity above E’ shall be poured off through F into the small beaker by
opening the tap E in such a way as to connect D and F. The water
contained in the pipette and tap E shall be discharged into a glass
weighing bottle of known mass and the mass determined. From this
mass the internal volume ( Vr ml) of the pipette and the tap shall be
calculated to the nearest 0’05 ml. Three determinations of the volume
shall be made and the average taken.

5.1.3.2 Prc-treatment cfsoils - The percentage of soluble salts in the

soil shall be determined as specified in IS : 2720 ( Part 21 ) - 1977*. In
case it is more than one percent, the soil shall be washed with water
before further treatment taking care to see that soil particles are not lost
(see Note 1).

Two samples out of the soil passing 4’75-mm IS Sieve obtained as

described in 32 weighing about 30 g shall be obtained by.riflling from
the bulk sample. The water content ( w ) of one sample shall be
determined by the method prescribed in IS : 2720 (Part 2 )-1973t.

The other sample shall be sub-divided by #fling. The actualmass

of soil required may vary according to the type of soil, 50 g with a sandy
soil and about 20 g with a clay soil. This sample shall be weighed to
O*OOl g ( W.) and placed in the 650-ml conical beaker. 50 ml of distilled
water shall be added to this and the soil suspension gently boiled until
the volume is reduced to about 40 ml. After cooling 75 ml of hydrogen
peroxide shall be added and the mixture allowed to stand overnight

*Methods of test for soils: Part 21 Determination of total soluble solids (jirst revisit ).
tMethods of test for soils: Part 2 Determination of water content ( second r&ion ).

13
IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

covered with cover glass. The suspension shall then be gently heated.
Care shall be taken to avoid frothing over and the contents of the beaker
shall be agitated frequently either by stirring or by shaking the beaker.
As soon as vigorous frothing has subsided and when there is no further
reaction by the addition of fresh hydrogen peroxide, the volume shall be
reduced to about 30 ml by boiling.

In the case of soils containing calcium compounds ( see Note 2 ) the

mixture shall be allowed to cool and about 10 ml of hydrochloric acid
shall be added. The solution shall be stirred with a glass rod for a few
minutes and allowed to stand for about one hour or for longer periods,
if necessary. The treatment shall be continued till the solution gives an
acid reaction to litmus. If the soil contains considerable amount of
calcium salts, more acid may be required.

In the case of soils containing no calcium compounds or soluble

salts and having a low organic content ( less than 2 percent ) the pre-
treatment prescribed may be omitted and the dispersing agent shall be
added as prescribed in 5.1.3.3 direct to the soil taken for analysis.

The mixture after pre-treatment with peroxide and acid or acid

alone shall be filtered using the Buchner or Hirch funnel and washed with
warm water until the filtrate shows no acid reaction to litmus. The wet
soil on the filter paper and funnel shall be transferred without any loss
whatsoever to the glass evaporating dish ( weighed to 0.001 g ) using a
jet of distilled water. Only a minimum quantity of distilled water shall
be used. The dish and contents shall be dried in an oven maintained at
105 to 110°C. The dish and contents shall then be cooled in a desiccator
and weighed to -O*OOl g. The mass of the soil remaining a~fter pre-
treatment shall be recorded ( wb ).

NOTE 1 - Owing to~the removal of calcium, iron, etc, by the acid during the pre-
treatment of the soil, the above method is not suitable for the determination of the
particle size distribution in soils predominantly containing chalk or lime and it may,
therefore, be necessary to adopt different methods of treatment with these and other
soils having similar special characteristics. Dispersion may be assisted by rubbing
the particles of soil in the suspension againrt the side of the evaporating dish with a
glass rod fitted with a rubber policeman. In some cases a longer mixing time may
help.

Lateritic soils will also be attacked by the acid but unless they contain calcium
they need not be given the acid treatment.

NOTE 2 - Acid treatment shall be carried out only for soils containing
insoluble calcium salts.

14
 lS:2720(Partt)-1985

SCALE
IN cm AND mm

A AND Bd

SLIDING
PANEL\

CONSTANT
TEMPERATURE
BATH
\

l-
.
1
NOTE- G - Sampling pipette, and
H- Sedimentation tube.
FIG. 4 ARRANGEMENTFORLOWERINGTHE SAMPLINGPIPETTE

15
IS : 2720 ( Part 4) - 1985

5.1.3.3 Dispersion of soil - 2 j ml sodium hexametaphosphate solution

shall be added to the soil in the evaporating dish together with about
25 ml of distilled water and the soil brought into suspension-by stirring
with a glass rod. The mixture shall be warmed gently for 10 minutes
and then transferred to the cup of the mechanical mixer using a jet of
distilled water to wash all traces of the soil out of the evaporating dish.
Any soil adhering to the dish shall be rubbed off with the rubber
policeman. The amount of water used shall not exceed 150 ml. The soil
suspension shall then be stirred well for 15 minutes or longer in the case
of highly clayey soils (see Note ).

The suspension shall then be transferred to %micron IS Sieve

placed on a receiver and the soil shall be washed on this sieve using a jet
of distilled water from a wash-bottle. Particular care shall be taken to
wash off all traces of suspension. adhering to the dispersion cup. The
amount of distilled water used during the operation shall not exceed
150 ml. The suspension, that has passed through this sieve shall then be
transferred to _the sedimentation tube using the glass funnel and the
volume of liquid is made up to 500 ml with distilled water.

The material retained on the 75-micron IS Sieve may be oven-dried

and treated as prescribed in 4.3.2 and the cumulative percentages of the
soil fraction retained on each sieve shall be calculated.

NOTE - Any other suitable stirring device other than the one specSed in 5.1.1.5,
such as the bottle shaker, may be used and the stirring time shall be adjusted
suitably.

5.1.3.4 Sedimentation - 25 ml of sodium hexametaphosphate solution

shall be added from a pipette to a graduated 500-ml sedimentation tube
( comparison tube ) and diluted with distilled water to exactly 500 ml.
This sedimentation tube together with the tube containing the soil sus-
pension shall be immersed in the constant temperature bath (where used ),
the temperature of the bath noted ( see Notes 1 and 2 ), the rubber bungs
inserted and the tubes allowed to stand until they have reached the
temperature of the bath. The tubes with their contents shall then be
thoroughly shaken by inverting the tubes several times. They shall then
be replaced in the apparatus, simultaneously starting the stop watch.
The rubber bungs shall then be carefully removed without agitating the
tubes.

The pipette with the tap E closed shall be lowered vertically into
the soil suspension until the end is 100 & 1 mm below the surface of the
suspension. It shall be lowered with great care some 15 seconds before the
sample is due to be taken. Approximately 10 seconds shall be taken to
complete this operation. The tap E shall be opened and a sample
( V,, ml ) drawn up into the pipette. The pipette and the bore in the tap

16
 IS : 2720 (Part 4 ) - 1985

E shall be filled ~with solution and tap E then closed. This operation
shall take 10 seconds to complete.

After each sampling operation the pipette shall be withdrawn from

the suspension, taking approximately 10 seconds to complete -the
operation.

During the sampling a small amount of the suspension may have

been drawn up inta the bulb D above the bore of the tap E. This
surplus shall be washed away into the beaker down the outlet tube F by
opening the tap E in such a way as to connect D land F. Distilled
water shall then be allowed to run from the bulb funnel A into D and out
through F until no solution remains in the system.

A tared weighing bottleshall be placed under the end of the pipette

and the tap E opened so that the contents of the pipette are delivered
into the bottle. Any suspension left on the inner walls of the pipette shgll
be washed into the weighing bottle by allowing distilled water from the
bulb A to run through B, D and E into the pipette. This procedure
shall be repeated at the end of each time corresponding to particle
diameters O-02 mm, 0.006 mm, 0.002 mm, 0’001 mm calculated on the
basis of equation given in 5.1.4.3 ( a). Table 1 gives the time of settling
to a depth of 100 mm of particles of various diameters for temperatures
ranging from 10 to 35°C for an average specific gravity of soil of 2.68.
The weighing bottles and contents shall be-placed in the oven maintained
at 105 to 110% and the sample evaporated to dryness. After cooling in
a desiccator the weighing bottle and contents shall be weighed to the
nearest 0’001 g and the mass of the solid material in the sample
determined ( WI, W,, WS, land W, for each respective sampling time ).

Between any of the times in which the above sampling is taking

place, a sample ( ‘/p ml ) shall be taken from the tube containing the
sodium hexametaphosphate solution. The mass of solid material in the
sample shall be determined ( N’S ).

The specific gravity of the soil fraction passing the 75-micron IS

Sieve shall be determined by the method specified in IS: 2720
( Part S/Set 1 )-1980*. .
NOTE 1 - If a constant temperature bath is not available for the test, the test
may be performed at room temperature. The temperature shall be noted at the
time of sampling and suitable correction made in the calculation of the equivalent
diameter of soil grains on the basis of equation in 5.1.4.3 (a).

NOTE 2 - Asymmetrical heating of the suspension causes convection currents

which affect the sedimentation procc’ss. The suspension should, therefore, be kepr

*Methods of test for soils : Part 3 Determination of specific gravity, Section 1 Fine
grained soils (first revision ) .

17
IS : 2720 ( Part 4 j - 1985

out c,f direct sunlight and away from any local source of heat. Evaporation should
be retarded bv keeping a cover on the measuring cylinder between readings.
NOTE 3 - It is not necessary to measure the specific gravity of every sample
used for fine analysis. An average value for samples from the same area or soil type
in an area may be used without loss of accuracy. It is essential that the specific
gravity used is that of the fraction passing 75-micron IS Sieve.

5.1.4 Calculations
5.1.4.1 Loss in .muss in pre-treatrwxt - The loss in mass in pre-
treatment of the soil in percentage shall be calculated as follows:

Wb( 100--~-_
tw)
P = 100 - ___.
II/‘,
where
P = loss in mass in percentage,

Wb = mass of soil after pre-treatment,

W= air dry moisture content of the soil taken for analysis,

and
W, = mass of air dry soil used.

5.1.4.2 Sieving - The percent of soil sample passing each of the &eves
used in the analysis shall be calculated using the mass of the pre-treated
soil ( WtJ ).

5.1.4.3 Sedimentation
a) Diameter of particle - The diameter of the particle in suspension
at any sampling time t shall be calculated from the formula:

980 ( G .- G, )
where
D = diameter of particle in suspension, in mm;
I, = coefficient of viscosity of water in poises at the
temperature of suspension at the time df sampling;
G = specific gravity of the soil fraction used in the sedimen-
tation analysis, in g/cm3;
GI = specific gravity of water, in g/cm’;
H = height of fall of the particles or sampling depth, in cm;
and
t = time elapsed before sampling, in minutes.

18
 TABLE 1 RATE OF SETTLING OF PARTICLES AT VARIOUS TEMPERATURES
( AvEnahP: SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF .%IL ASSUMED As 2’68 )
( Claus8 5.1.3.4)
T~MPERX- DIAMETER, mm
TURE ~________----_---_____~__-*------_-----_----------_--)
“C ‘001 -002 .&I3 .004 ‘005 ‘006 *007 .008 ‘009 .Ol ‘02 .03 ‘04 .05 .06 ‘07 .08 ‘09 *l
r--- -h---_ _ r‘___-- -*--_-__-~ ~__~_~-__~~h~~~~~~~_~_~
( Time -roTor a fall of 100 mm)
c_____h_____7 r_____-h ____ ___~ ~~-~_~~__~_h~_~~ ___--7
h min s

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (lo) (11) (12) (13) (14) (15) (16) (17) (18) (19) (20)
10 40.80 10.19 4.53 2.55 98.0 68.0 53.0 -38.3 30.2 24.5 367 163 92 59 40.8 31’8 22.9 18.1 14.7
11 39.64 9’91 440 2.48 95.2 66.1 51’5 37.2 29’3 23.8 357 158 89 57 39.6 30’9 22.3 17.6 14.3
12 YE.55 9’63 4.28 2.41 92.6 64’2 50.1 36.1 28.5 23*1 347 154 87 55 38.5 30’0 21;7 17.1 13’9
37.48 9.37 4.16 2.34 90.0 62..5 48.7 35’1 27.7 22’5 337 150 84 54 37.5 29.2 21.1 16.7 13’5
36.39 9’10 4.04 2.28 87.6 60.8 47’3 34’2 27.0 21.9 328 14ti 82 52 36’4 28’4 20.5 16.2 13.1
35.45 8’86 3.93 2.22 85.1 59.2 46.1 33.3 26.2 21.3 319 142 80 51 35.4 27:6 19.9 15’8 12’7

34.49 8.62 3.83 2.16 82.8 57.6 44’9 32‘4 25’5 20’7 310 138 78 50 34’5 26’9 194 15.3 lP’4
33’64 8.41 3.73 2.10 80.8 5ij.l 43.7 31.5 24,9 20’2 302 134 76 48 33’6 26.2 18.9 14% 12’1
32’73 8’18 .3.64 2’04 78.6 54.6 42’5 30’7 24.2 19’6 294 131 74 47 32.7 25.5 18’4 14.5 11’8
31’89 7.98 ‘3.54 1.99 76,6 53.2 41.4 29.9 23.6 19.1 287 127 72 4ti 31.9 24’8 17’9 14’1 Il.5
31’10 7.77 3.45 1’94 74’6 51.8 40.4 29.1 23.0 18.6 280 124 70 45 31.1 24.2 17.5 13.8 11.5

30’28 7.57 3.36 1’89 72.7 50.6 39.4 28.4 22’4 18.2 273 121 68 44 30’3 23.G 17’0 13.4 IO.9
29.55 7.38 3.28 1.85 70.9 49.3 38.4 27.7 21.8 17.7 266 118 66 42 29.5 23.0 16.6 13.1 10.6
28.81 7.21 3.20 1’80 69’2 48.1 37’5 27.0 21.3 17’3 259 115 65 41 28’8 22.4 16.2 12 8 10.4
28’12 7.03 3.12 1’76 67.5 46.9 36.6 26.4 20.8 16.9 253 113 63 40 28.1 21’9 15.8 12’5 IO.1 &:
28’78 6.86 3.05 1.72 65.9 45.8 35.7 25.8 20.3 16’5 247 110 62 39 27’8 21’4 15’5, 12’2 ‘3.y ..
26.81 6’71 2.98 1.68 644 44.7 34.8 25.2 19.8 16.1 241 107 60 39 26’8 20’9 15.1 11.9 9.6 p:
N
6’54 2.yl I.64 62.9 43.7 34.0 24.6 19’4 15.7 236 105 59 38 26.2 20’4 14’7 11.6 9.4 0

;::::
26.!9 6’25
6’40 2’78
2’84 1.56
1’60 60.1
61.4 41.7
47.7 32.5
33.2 23.4
“4.0 18’5
19.0 15’0
15.4 226
231 100
102 38
56 36
37 25.0
25.6 19.9
19.4 14.4
14.1 11’4
11.1 9.0
92 -‘d
2446 6.12 2’72 1’53 58’8 40.8 31.8 22.9 18’1 14.9 221 98 55 35 245 19’0 13’8 10’8 8’8 g

2395 5.y8 2.66 1.50 57.5 39’9 31.1 22.4 17’7 14’4 216 96 54 34 23’9 18.6 13.5 10.6 8.6 ;
23.44 5 86 2’60 1’47 56.3 39’1 30’4 219 17.3 14.1 221 94 53 34 23.4 18.2 13’2 10’4 8.5 ,
22.95 5.74 2.55 1’44 55.1 38.3 29.8 21.5 17’0 13’8 206 y2 52 33 22’9 17.8 12.11 10’2 8.4
22.50 .5,G2 2’50 1.41 54.0 37.5 29’2 21.1 16% 13’5 202 y0 51 32 22.5 17.5 12.6 10’0 8.1 =;
22.01 5’50 2.45 1.38 52.9 36.7 28.6 20’7 16.3 13’2 198 89 50 32 22.0 17.2 12.4 9.8 7.9 g
IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

b) Percenlage jner than D

1) The mass of solid material in 500 ml of suspension for each

respective sampling time shall be calculated from the formula:
MI or M2 or MS
or h4,, etc, Or C++I or CV, or W, or W,, etc, or We x 5oo
MS, in g = .._
“P

where
MI7
M, I
M, > = mass of material in 500 ml from respective samplings,
M& I
etc J
MS = mass of sodium hexametaphosphate in 500 ml of
solution,
WI-l
Wz I
7 t = mass of material in VP ml from respective samplings,

etd J
w* = mass of sodium hexametaphosphate in VP ml of
solution, and
v, = volume in ml of sample pipetted for respective
samplings.

2) The percentage by mass (W), of particles finer than diameter

D shall be calculated from the formula:
~~,(M1orM,orM,orM,,etc)--M,x 1oo
wb

where
ML?
M2 1
M, ) = mass of material in 500 ml from respective samplings,
Ma I
etc J
M, = mass of sodium hexametaphosphate in 500 ml of
solution, and
W,, = mass of soil after pre-treatment.

5.1.4.4 ~omhitxd gradation-Combined gradation for each of the

particle sizes covered by 5.1.3.4 shall be calculated on the basis of the
total soil sample taken for anaiytis.

20
 IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

5;2 Hydrometer Mcth6d ( Subsidiary Method )

5.2.0 This method is not applicable, if less than 10 percent of the

material passes 75-micron IS Sieve.

5.2.1 Aj$aratus

5.2.1.1 Hydrometer -of the type illustrated in Fig. 5 and fulfilling

the following requirements:

a) There shall be no abrupt changes in the cross section of the

hydrometer, such as will hinder cleaning or drying or permit air
bubbles to be trapped.
b) The hydrometer shall be graduated on the basis of a liquid
having a surface tension of 55 dynes/cm.
c) The graduation lines shall b; at intervals of O*OOO5, every
alternate line shall extend beyond the shortest lines, every tenth
graduation shall exceed that of all the intervening lines and shall
be numbered in full. A recommended scale is shown in Fig. 5.

d) The basis of the scale shall be density ( g/ml ) at 27°C.

e) The maximum permissible scale error on the hydrometer is plus
or minus one scale division.
f) The other general requirements shall satisfy those specified in
IS : 3104-1965*.

5.2.1.2 Glass measuring cylinders - two of 1 000 ml capacity with

ground glass or rubber stoppers about 7 cm diameter and 33 cm high
marked at 1 000 ml volume.

5.2.1.3 Thermometer -to coves the range 0.50°C accurate to 0*5”C.

5.2.1.4 Water-bath or constant temperature room ( optional ) -for

maintaining the soil suspension at a constant temperature during the
hydrometer analysis. A satisfactory water tank is an insulated tank
that maintains the temperature of the suspension at a convenient constant
temperature. Such a device is illustrated in Fig. 6.

5.2.1.5 Stirring apparatus - as specified in 5.1.1.5.

5.2.1.6 Sieves - as specified in 5.1.1.6.

5.2.1.7 Balance - accurate to 0.01 g.

*Specification for density hydrometers.

21
IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

0.995 z - - Ti-?L
lD000

1.005+
1*010

bOl!j
+
-g

-$-

g
4*7#

T 130 TO 150

- _I
1010 20
t. ,

I\ t
50
A DDDnY 1

29 TO 31 6
All dimensions in millimetres.

FIG. 5 HYDROMETER

22
 LSr2720(Part 4)-1985

,-GALVANIZED STEEL SHEET rOVERFlOW

25 mm THICK
WOOD CASING

L INLET 1 L8RASS PLATE

5” mm THICK CORK INSULATION

All dimensions in millimetres.

FIG. 6 ILLUSTRATED WATER BATH

5.2.1.8
Oven- thermostatically controlled to maintain a temperature
of 105 to llO”C, with interior of non-corroding material.

5.2.1.9
stop watsh

Desiccator
5.2.1.10
5.2.1.11 Centimetrc Jcalc

5.2.1.12 Porcelain evaporating dishes - four, about 15 cm in diameter.

Wide-mouth
5.2.1.13 -conical jask or conical beaker - of 1 000 ml
rapacity.
5.2.1.14 Buchner or Hirch funnel - about 10 cm in diameter.

-5.2.1.15 Filter jlask - to take the.funnel.

4.2.1.16 Measuring cylinder - of 100 ml capacity.

5.2.1.17 Wash ~bottle - containing distilled water.

Filter papers
5.2.1.18
5.2.1.19 Blue litmus paper

23
IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

5.2.1.20 Glass rod - about 15 to 20 cm long and 4 to 5 mm in

diameter.

5.2.2 Reagents- The reagents shall be of analytical quality.

5.2.2.1 Hydrogen peroxide - See 5.1.2.1.

5.2.2.2 Hydrochloric acid N sol&on - See 5.1.2.2,

5.2.2.3 Sodium hexametaphosphate solution - See 5.1.2.3 and Notes 1, 2
and 3 ~thereunder.

5.2.3 Calibration of Hydrometer

5.2.3.1 Volume - The volume of the hydrometer bulb ( Vh ) shall be

determined in one of the following ways:

4 From the volume of water displaced-Approximately 800 ml of

water shall be poured into the 1 000 ml sneasuring cylinder.
The reading of the water level shall be observed and recorded.
The hydrometer shall be immersed in the water and the level
shall again be observed and recorded.
The difference between the two readings shall he recorded as the
volume -of the hydrometer bulb in millilitres plus the volume of
that part of the stem that is submerged. For practical purposes
the error due to the inclusion of this stem volume may be
neglected.

b) From the mass of the hydrometer - The,hydrometer shall be weighed

to the nearest O-1 g.
The mass in grams shall be recorded as the volume of the
hydrometer in millilitres. This includes the volume of bulb plus
the volume of the stem below the 1900 graduation mark. For
practical purposes the error due to the -inclusion of this stem may
be neglected.

5.2.3.2 Calibration
a) The sectional area of the 1 000 ml measuring cylinder in which
the hydrometer is -to be used shall be’ determined by measuring
the distance between two graduations. The sectional area ( ,A ) is
equal to the volume included between the two graduations
divided by the measured distance in centimetres between them.
b) The distance from the lowest calibration mark on the stem of
the hydrometer to each of the other major calibration marks
( Rh ) shall be measured and recorded.

24
 IS x2720 ( Part 4 ) - i985

4 The distance from the neck of the bulb to the nearest calibration
mark shall be measured and recorded.

4 The distance H corresponding to a reading Rn is the sum of the

distances measured in ( b ) and ( c ).

4 The distance ( h ) from the neck to the bottom of the bulb shall
be measured and recorded as the height of the bulb.
NOTE -The distance h/2 locates the centre of volume of asymmetrical
bulb. If an asymmetrical bulb is used, the centre of volume can be determined
with sufficient accuracy by projecting the shape of the bulb on to a sheet of
paper and locating the centre of gravity of the projected area.

f 1 The effective depth (HR) corresponding to each of the major

calibration marks ( & ) shall be calculated from the following
formula :

where
HR = effective depth;

HI = length from neck of bulb, to graduation Rb, in cm;

h = twice the length from neck of bulb to its centre
of volume, in cm;
V, = volume of hydrometer bulb, in ml; and

A = area of measuring cylinder in cm:.

NOTE -The factor %in-tbe above equation shall not be applied to

hydrometer reading taken after periods of sedimentation of half, one, two
and four minutes as specified in 5.2.4.3(a).

.d The relationship between HR and & may be plotted as a smooth

curve which may be used for finding the effective depth ( H,)
corresponding to hydrometer readings ( & ) obtained during
test. c

5.2.3.3 Meniscus correction - The hydrometer shall be inserted in a

1 OOO-mi measuring cylinder containing about 700 ml water. By
placing the eye slightly below the plane of the surface of the. liquid, and
then raising it slowly until the surface seen as an ellipse becomes a
straight line, the point where the plane intersects t!ie hydrometer scale
shall bi determined. By placing the eye slightly above the plane of the
surface of the liquid, the point where the upper limit of the meniscus
intersects the -hydrometer scale shall be determined. The difference
IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

between the two readings shall be recorded as the meniscus correction

Cm. This is a constant for a given hydrometer.

5.2.4 Procedure

5.2.4.1 Prc-treatment of soil - The percentage of soluble salts shall be

determined. In case it is more than one percent, the soil shall be washed
with water before further treatment, taking care to see the soil particles
are not lost (see Note 1 under 5.1.3.2 ).

Two samples each of mass 50 to 100 g approximately shall be obtain-

ed by riffling from the air dried sample passing the 4’75-mm IS
Sieve obtained as in 3.3. The actual amount of soil required will vary
according to the type of soil, 50 g with a clay soil and 100 g with a sand
soil. The moisture content ( w )of one sample shall be determined by
the method given in IS : 2720 ( Part 2 )-1973*. The other sample shall
be accurately weighed ( W, ) to the nearest 0.01 g and placed inthe wide
mouth conical flask. 150 ml of hydrogen peroxide shall then be added
and the mixture stirred gently with a glass rod for a few minutes after
which it shall be covered with a cover glass and left to stand overnight.
The mixture in the conical flask shall be gently-heated. Care shall be taken
to avoid frothing over and the contents of the dish shall be periodically
stirred. As soon as vigorous frothing has subsided the volume shall be
reduced to about 50 ml by boiling. With very organic soils additional
peroxide may be required to complete the oxidation.

In the case of soils containing calcium compounds (see Note 2

under 5.1.3.2 ) the mixture shall be allowed to cool and about 50 ml of
hydrochloric acid added. The solution shall be stirred with a glass rod
for a few minutes and allowed to stand for one hour or for longer periods,
if necessary. If the soil contains a considerable amount of calcium salts
more acid may be required. When the treatment is complete the solution
shall have an acid reaction to litmus.

In the case of soils containingno calcium compounds or soluble salts

and having a low organic content ( less than 2 percent ) the pre-treatment
prescribed may be omitted and the dispersing agent shall be added as
in 5.2.1’2 direct to the soil taken for analysis.

The mixture shall then be filtered and washed with warm water
until the filtrate shows no acid reaction to litmus. The damp soil on the
filter paper and funnel shall be transferred without any loss whatsoever
to the evaporating dish ( weighed to 0.01 g ) using a jet of distilled water.
Only the minimum quantity of distilled water shall be used. The dish

*Methods of test for soils : Part 2 Determination of water conqt f second

raision ).

c
 IS L2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

and contents shall be placed in an oven and dried at 105 to 1lOW. The
dish and contents shall then be transferred to the desiccator and allowed
to cool. They shall then be weighed to 0.01 g, and ‘the mass of soil
remaining after pre-treatment shall be recorded ( Wa ).

5.2.4.2 Dispersion of soil - To the soil in the evaporating dish 100 ml

of sodium hexametaphosphate solution shall be added and the mixture
shall then be warmed gently for about 10 minutes and then transferred
to the cup of the mechanical mixer using a jet of distilled water to wash
all traces of the soil out of the evaporatmg dish. The amount of water
used may be about 150 ml. The soil suspension shall then be stirred
well for 15 minutes.

The suspension shall then be transferred to the 75-micron IS Sieve

placed on a receiver and-the soil shall be washed on this sieve using a jet
of distilled water from a wash bottle. Particular care shall be taken to
wash off all traces of suspension adhering to the dispersion cup. The
amount of distilled water during this operation may be about 500 ml.
The suspension that has passed through the sieve shall be transferred to
the 1000 ml measuring cylinder and made up to exactly 1 000 ml with
distilled water. This suspension shall then be used for the sedimentation
analysis.

The material retained on the 75-micron IS Sieve may be over-dried

and analysed as specified in 4.3.2.1 and the cumulative percentages of
the soil fraction retained on each sieve shall be calculated.

5.2.4.3 Sedimentation

4 A rubber bung shall be inserted in the mouth of the measuring

cylinder which shall then be shaken vigorously and finally be
inverted end -over end. Immediately the shaking has ceased,
the measuring cylinder shall be allowed to stand ( in the constant
temperature bath, if used ) and the stop watch started. The
~hydrometer shall be immersed to a depth slightly below its
floating position and then allowed to float freely. Hydrometer
readings shall be taken after periods of half, one, two and four
minutes. The hydrometer shall then be removed slowly,
rinsed in distilled water arid kept in a cylinder of distilled
water at the same temperature as the soil suspension.
b) The hydrometer shall be re-inserted in the suspension and
readings taken after periods of 8, 15 and 30 minutes, one, two
and four hours after shaking ( see Note ). The hydrometer shall
be removed, rinsed and placed in the distilled water after each
reading. After 4 hours hydrometer readings shall be taken
once or twice within 24 hours, the exact periods of sedimentation

27
IS:2720(Part4)-1985
being noted. Finally a reading may be taken at the end of
24 hours. In taking all readings, insertion and withdrawal of
the hydrometer before and after taking a reading shall be done
carefully to avoid disturbing the suspension unnecessarly. Ten
seconds shall be allowed for each operation. Vibration of the
sample shall be avoided.
NOTE-Other suitable time intervals may be used, provided they give
nearly equally spaced points on the grain size distribution curve.

4 The temperature of the suspension shall be observed and

recorded~once during the first 15 minutes and then after every
subsequent reading. The temperature shall be read with an,
accuracy of at least f 0.5%. Hydrometer readings shall also be
taken in pure distilled water at the corresponding temperatures
and the temperature correction ( iUt ) calculated as the
difference between this reading and the reading corresponding
to the density of water at the calibration temperatures. A chart
of such corrections for all temperatures may also be prepared
for ready use.
NOTE-The temperature of the suspension over the period of the test
should not differ from the mean temperature by more than &2”C in order
not to cause an error in the particle size of more than 2 percent. This
requirement will generally be fulfilled if the maximum difference in room
temperature is not greater than about 8°C. If the variation in temperature
is likely to be greater than this the constant temperature bath should be used
( see also Note 2 under 5.1.3.4 ).

d) The correction ( x ) to be ‘applied for the dispersing agent shall

be ascertained by placing exactly 50 ml of the sodium hexamcta-
phosphate solution in a previously weighed glass weighing bottle
and after evaporating the water by drying at 105 to 1 WC in an
oven, the mass of dispersing agent ( W,E) shall be calculated.

The dispersing agent correction (x ) shall then be calculated from

the formula:
x = 2 M’d
This correction is independent of the temperature.
Alternatively, the correction may be obtained directly by making up
a 1 000 ml cylinder full of distilled water containing the same proportion
of dispersing agent and at the same temperature, and placing the
hydrometer in this solution. The corrected zero reading may then be
read directly. This correction shall be corrected for temperature.

5.2.5 Gal:ulalions
5.2.5.1 Loss in mass in p-treatment - The loss in mass in pre-treatment
bf the soil shall be calculated using the formula given in 5.1.4.1.
 l8:2728(Part4)-1985

5.2.5.2 Sieving- The percent of soil sample passing each of the sieve
used in the analysis shall be calculated using the mass of the pre-treated
soil and as percentages of the total soil sample taken for analysis.

5.2.5.3 Sedimentation

a) Diameter of the pad&s - The diameter of the particle in

suspension at any sampling time 1 shall be calculated from the
formula:

D- ___.. 3ou
.__- Ha
980(G-G,) t

where
D = diameter of particle in suspension, in mm;

P = coefficient of viscosity of water at the temperature of

the suspension at the time of taking the hydrometer
reading, in poises;

G = specific gravity of the soil fraction used in the

sedimentation analysis;

Gl = specific gravity of water;

HR = effective depth corresponding to Rb (see 5.2.3.2 ), in cm

[JCCNote under 5.2.3.2 ( f)]; and

t = time elapsed between the beginning of sedimentation.

and taking of hydrometer reading in minutes.

The hydrometer reading corrected for meniscus ( Rh ) shall be

calculated from the following formula:

Rh = Rgh + C, c
where
R, = hydrometer reading corrected for meniscus,

R’b = hydrometer reading at the upper rim of the meniscus,

and

C, = meniscus correction.

NOTE - A nomographic chart for solving the above equation is given in Fig. 7.

29
 VELOCITY (‘~1 cm/o

(8)
-2.1
-5

-2.2
-6

-7 -2.3 OF BULB
TEMPERATURE tT)
-6
OF ‘C .>4
-9

-10 90 _:o” .2*5

6' 25
-12 70 20 2.6
60 15
14 50 f IO 2.7

16 2.9

16 2.9 KEY

120
30

3’1

3.2

FIG. 7 NOMOGRAPHICCHART
 IS : 2720 ( Part 43 - 1985

b) Percentage finer than D - The percentage by mass ( W) of

particles smaller than corresponding equivalent particle
diameters shall be calculated from the formula:

100 G,
w= W, (G, -1) tRh + Mt - ‘>
where
G, = specific gravity of soil particles,
Wb = weight of soil after pre-treatment;

Rh = hydrometer reading corrected for meniscus (for the

type of hydrometer graduations illustrated in Fig. 5,
RI, is obtained by reading the decimals only and placing
the decimal point between the third and the fourth
decimal places);

Mt = temperature correction; and

x = dispersion agent correction.

The values of W shall be calculated for all the values of D obtained

and shall be expressed as percentages of particles finer than the
corresponding value of D. These percentages shall then be expressed as
combined percentages of the total soil sample taken for analysis.

5.3 PLUMMET BALANCE ( Alternative Method )

5.3.1 Principle -Plummet balance is essentially a specific gravity

balance and is designed on the principle that adjustment for depth of
immersion of the plummet is more rapid requiring less precision than
adjustment for weight. The only manipulation is adjustment of the
height of the balance so that the plummet sinks to the right depth. This
permits, at any time, to directly read percentage of soil in suspension
with easy computation of diameter of the particle by Stoke’s law.

5.3.2 Apparatus L

5.3.2.1 Plummet balance - Figure 8 illustrates the ~basic components.

The plummet balance consists of a base with three levelling screws
over which an upright pillar is fixed. A light weight pointer beam
mounted with the help of steel pivot and jewel bearings on to the
scale arm. At the end of this scale arm a scale shall be fixed. The
pointer shall be allowed on to move over the scale. The scale arm shall
be fixed on two blo&ks acting as guides to move on the upright pillar.
A pinion knob and a rack and pinion arrangement facilitates easy
movement of this scale arm assembly to move up and down as desired.

31
IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

The pointer has two adjusting screws allowing the adjustment of the
zero reading. A plummet made of perspex with a string and hook for
hanging to the pointer shall be provided. This plastic plummet shall
weigh 3 gm in water. A plumb bob shall be provided on the scale
arm carrier for adjustment of the level of the instrument.

5.3.2.2 Glass measuring cylinders - Two 1 000 ml capacity with ground

glass or rubber stoppers about 7 cm diameter and 33 cm high marked at
1 000 ml volume.

5.3.2.3 Thermometer -to cover the range up to 50% accurate up to

0.5”C.

5.3.3 Procedure - see Fig. 8.

5.3.3.1 Initial setting and adjustment level the instrument with the
help of plumb bob and levelling screws. Two rider weights provided
with the apparatus shall be used for checking calibration and for any
adjustment. The weight marked 100 when hung on to the hook provided
for hanging the plummet on the beam should read 100 and when the
weight marked zero is hung the pointer should read zero. If adjustments
are necessary at any time to obtain 0 and 100 readings, adjusting
screws shall be used fbr changing the range and the other screw for
setting the zero. Then the plummet shall be hooked to the beam
after lowering in a container filled with distilled water. The pinion
knob .is then operated to bring the centre of the plummet at a depth of
9 cm or any other specified depth at which the usual readings are taken.
Make a mark on the string. If the pointer does not read zero then
adjust the screw. Do not tamper with the adjustment of the screw for
doing this adjustment. The balance is now ready for use.

5.33.2 Prc-treatment of soil - The material retained on the 75 micron

IS Sieve is oven dried and analysed as specified in 4.3.2.1. The
pretreatment is done as per the procedure as in 5.2.4.

5.3.3.3 Disfieraion of soil - The procedure is same as in 5.2.4.2.

5.3.3.4 Sedimentation - A rubber bung shall be inserted into the

mouth of the measuring cylinder which shall then be shaken vigorously
and finally be inverted end over the end. Immediately after the shaking
has ceased the measuring cylinder is placed on the stand of the
plummet balance and the stop watch is started. This marks the
beginning of sedimentation.
 IS : 2720 ( Part 4) - 1985

ADJUSTMENT SCREW

ADJUSTMENT

&EEOLE SHAPED)

:A:E

FIG. 8 DETAILSOF PLUMMETBALANCE

33
IS I 2720 ( Part 4) - 1985

5.3.3.5 Data - The plummet then shall be lowered into the

suspension and hooked on to the balance. The plummet is brought to the
present depth by turning the pinion. The percentage of soil irrsuspension
is directly read by the pointer and noted down at half, one, two, four
minutes and subsequently at further intervals lasting over up to six to
seven hours. The balance is sufficiently sensitive to allow readings to be
made to the nearest percentage unit in 2 percent suspensions.

5.3.3.6 Compufations - Particle diameter D in mm is computed as

detailed below for each of the percentages read out by the pointer;

D(mm)=k
%(cm)
t ( min )
where
,& = effective depth of immersion of the plummet which is
the depth in cm, from the surface of the suspension to
centre of the plummet, that is, predetermined distance
( say 9 cm) from the mark on the string to centre of
the plummet;
-t = time in minutes when pointer readings are taken. Time
intervals are adjusted such that square root of time can
directly be computed; and
k = coefficient from Fig. 9 to aid in soiving Stoke’s equation
for known temperature condition and specific gravity
of particles either determined or assumed ( range 2.65
to 2.8).

2, (cm)
D(mml = K/
tlmin)

G = SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF
SOIL PARTICLES

\\\\+-=G = 2.4

.24’
5
w
n 2.8

E
. -0.008 0.010 0.012 o*ou 0.016 DO16

K-
FIG. 9 CHART FOR Am IN SOLVING STOKES EQUATION

34
 IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

6. REPORT

6.1 The results of the grain size analysis shall be reported in a suitable
form. A recommended proforma is given in Appendix A. A grain size
distribution curve shall be drawn on a semi-logarithmic chart, plotting
particle size on the log scale against percentage finer than the
corresponding size on the 0rdinar.y scale. A chart for showing grain
size distribution is shown in Fig. 10.

INDIAN SlANOARb -SEVES

MICRONS MlLlMlRES

Grain size in millimetres.

Fro. 10 CHART FOR RECORDING GRAIN SIZE DISTRIBUTION

35
IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

APPENDIX A
( Clause 6.1 )
FORM FOR THE RECORD OF RESWLTS OF
GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS

PROJECT ......_ DETAILSor SOIL SABLE . . . . . . . . . .

SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FRACTION RETAINED ON 4’75-mm IS SIEVE

Weight of total roil sample taken for analysis.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Water content. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..~_...“.

IS MASS MASS
CUMULATIVE MM* SOIL SOIL Covrau?m
SIEVE MASS RETAINED PA~SINC+ PEBCENTAQE
Dmim- SOOFIL CoosN- SooqL RETAINED AS PEE- A8 PIE%- PAZZSIN~u
NATION Rx- TAINEB RETAINED CENTAGE CENTAOE PEBCEXTAGE
TAINED OF SOIL OF SOIL OF TOTAL
+ MASS TAXEN TAXEN SOILSAIFLE
CONTAINICE

SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FRACTION PASSING 4-75-mm IS SIEVE

BUT RETAINED ON 7S-MICRON IS SIEVE

Mass of partial sample taken for analysis.. . . . . . ..*.....................*.........

Water content. . . . . ..-.......................-..*..............................................

IS MASS OF MASS MASS CUMULA- SOIL SOIL COX~NED

-_---
SllcVE SOIL OF OF TIV~LMiss RI~TAINE~ PASXXO PERCIQ~TAOIC
Dmsla- RETAINED CON- SOIL RETAINED ASPEB- AS Pma- PAININGAB
NATION +MAssOF TAXWEB RETAINED CENTAOEOENTAOE PEBCENTAGZ
CONTAINER OF TOTAL
P%AL PA~XAL SOIL SAULE
SOIL SOIL
TAKEN S~UCPLE
TAIIENFOB
ANALY8IO

36
 IS:2729(Part4)-1985

ANALYSIS OF SOIL PASSING 75-MICRON IS SIEVE

Masr of air dry soils ( W.) .............................................................

Water content of air dry roil (~0).....................................................
Mass ofovendry soil after pre-treatmant ( Wb).....................................
LOM in mass in pre-treatment in percent .............................................

PipItfs Ana&sif;

Specific gravity of soil ....................................................................

Volume of suspension taken in pipette (Va). ........................................
Depth at which sample was taken .....................................................
Mass of dispersing agent in the vobme- of suspension sampled .................

DATE TIMN TEMPERA- MASS MASS COR- DIA- PEB- COMBINED

MASS MASS
ELAPSED TUREoI RECT METER CEN- PEBOEN-
BEIORE SUS- Co:!- CT- S~L:D S:L:D MAW Dor TAQN TALOE
SAM- PENSION TAINER TLE -MATE- MATE- OB SOIL FINER FINER
PLIND +OVBN RIAL RIAL Son. GRAINTRAN THAN D
DRY MATE- IN D AS ASPER-
SOIL Bo:~LE.~C~I~~ RIAL mm PER- CENTION
FRACTX~H CENTAQE 03'
vok* 50rml OF Wa TOTAL
VU SOIL
SAMPLE

Hydrome;rr Analysis
Hydrometer No.
...........................................................................
Meniscus (Cm). ...............................................................
correction
Temperature correction (Aft). ..........................................................
Dispersing agent correction ix). .........................................................
Density ofsoil G. .............................................................................

W- wa~~~ll (%+Mt-xx) (percent)

DATETIXE TEM- ELAPBED HPDRO- CORREC- ~?QWP- &+hft PNRoEN- COURTNEY

PERA- TIME YNTER TED MENT --x TAQEOF PERCEN-
TDRE READIN@ HYDRO- DIA- PARTXOLSs TAQEOp
Rh METER XETER, FINER FINER
THAN D, THAN DA0
W PERCIEN- Pwcmz-
TAOL TAQN Or
TOTAL
SAMPLN

37
IS : 2720 ( Part 4 ) - 1985

( Conlinucd
Jm7lpage2 )

Members Repurnting
ASSIWANT RESEARCH OFFICER Irrigation Department, Government of Uttar
( IRI ) Pradesh, Roorkee
ASSWCAXT RESIWWH OFFICER Irri ation Department, Government of Punjab,
( IRRI ) E handigarh
&RI A. I(. CHATWIWEDI Ministry ot‘Defen& ( Engineer-in-Chief% Branch )
SHRI P. VERDARJAN ( Ahmale)
DEPUTY DIRECTOB RESEARCH Ministry of Railways
( GE-III )
JOINT DIBECTOR RESEAROH
( GE-I ) ( Alternate)
DIWWTO~ ( CSM & RS 1 Central Soil and Materiala Research-Station. New
Delhi
DEPUTY DIRECTOR ( CSM & RS ) ( Alhrnuta )
SERI H. K. GUEA Geologista Syndicate Private Limited, Calcutta
SHBI N. N. BHATTAC~ARYA
( Ahrnatr )
DE SHASHI K. GIJLHATI Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi
DB GOPAL RANJAN University of Roorkee, Roorkee
DR S. C. HANDA ( Allcrneta)
SEW M. D. N.UB Aaaociated Instrumenta Manufacturera (I) Private
Limited, New Delhi
PROP T. S. NA~A~AJ ( Ahrnote)
SHRI P. JA~ANATEA RAO Centgeload Research Institute ( CSIR ), New

38
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