Assessing soil compaction using continuous compaction control and location-specific in situ tests

Modern compaction equipment can be outfitted with sensors that allow for real-time monitoring of the compaction process, an approach that is commonly referred to as continuous compaction control (CCC). This paper describes the results from an experimental research study that was conducted to assess the effectiveness of CCC technology for construction of a roadway embankment using a sand containing a significant percentage of silty fines. During embankment construction, simultaneous machine drive power (MDP) and compactometer value (CMV) measurements were recorded, along with the corresponding position of the roller. Location-specific in situ “spot tests” were also performed to independently assess soil compaction, including nuclear density gauge (NDG) tests, soil stiffness gauge (SSG) tests, light weight deflectometer (LWD) tests, and dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP) tests. A comparison of the CCC measurements with the location-specific in situ test results was performed using spatial data analysis tools and statistical regression. The measured data, spatial and regression analysis approaches, and associated discussion that are presented provide valuable information for researchers and practitioners that are considering the use of CCC technology.