Using the SSMini Pressuremeter for Compaction Quality Control
Using the SSMini Pressuremeter for Compaction Quality Control
Nuclear density gauge (NDG) testing has been the standard for construction quality control (QC) for over six decades, despite its inability to assess soil strength and cumbersome logistics due to radiation. Recognizing these limitations, a fully automated small diameter pressuremeter (SSMini PMT) has been developed to measure soil strength and stiffness in under a minute. The device generates stress-strain data correlating with established testing methods, including a lightweight deflectometer, Klegg impact, dynamic cone, and nuclear density testing. With over 400 tests in sand and clay completed, the SSMini offers varying lengths (6 to 12 inches) of probes that fit NDG drive pinholes for seamless integration. This novel approach introduces a moisture-density-soil stiffness framework, enabling contractors to use targeted moisture contents alongside SSMini elastic modulus data to determine fill acceptability on-site. By directly measuring water content and modulus, this method eliminates the need for nuclear density testing, relying instead on the Proctor density for initial calibration. The SSMini PMT promises a safer, faster, and more precise QC process, marking a significant advancement in geotechnical engineering.
Brhane Ygzaw; P. J. Cosentino; Anuar Akchurin; Thaddeus Misilo
8th International Symposium on Pressuremeters (ISP2025)
Pressuremeter Testing Techniques and procedures
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