Question

A clayey soil has a maximum dry density of 16 kN/$m^3$ and optimum moisture content of 12%. A contractor during the construction of core of an earth dam obtained the dry density 15.2kN/$m^3$ and water content 11%. This construction is acceptable because

• A. The density is less than the maximum dry density and water content is on dry side of optimum
• B. The compaction density is very low and water content is less than 12%
• C. The compaction is done on the dry side of the optimum
• D. Both the dry density and water content of the compacted soil are within the desirable limits

Answer 1

The correct option is D Both the dry density and water content of the compacted soil are within the desirable limits

In the design of core of earth dam, attempt should be made to keep the water content on wet side of optimum to reduce permeability and prevent cracking in core.

In the given question water content is on dry side of optimum and construction is acceptable because given value of dry density and water content is near the maximum dry density and optimum water content means within the desirable limits.