Sieve Analysis Test of Soil

The Sieve Analysis Test is performed to determine the particle size distribution of coarse-grained soil by passing soil through a series of standard sieves.

 

Objective of Sieve Analysis Test

· Determine grain size distribution

· Classify soil

· Determine gradation of aggregates

· Assess suitability for construction work

Apparatus Required

· Standard IS sieves

· Sieve shaker

· Weighing balance

· Oven

· Tray and brushes

Principle of Test

The soil sample is passed through a stack of sieves with decreasing mesh sizes. The percentage retained and passing through each sieve is calculated.

Test Procedure

1. Take representative dry soil sample

2. Weigh the sample

3. Arrange sieves in descending order

4. Place soil on top sieve

5. Shake sieves mechanically for 10–15 minutes

6. Measure weight retained on each sieve

7. Calculate percentage retained and passing

8. Plot grain size distribution curve

Formulae

Percentage Retained = (Wr / W) × 100

Percentage Passing = 100 - Cumulative % Retained

Example Calculation

Total Sample Weight = 1000 g

Weight retained on 2.36 mm sieve = 180 g

Step 1: Percentage Retained

% Retained = (180 / 1000) × 100

% Retained = 18%

Step 2: Percentage Passing

If cumulative retained = 42%

% Passing = 100 - 42

% Passing = 58%

Types of Soil Based on Gradation

Soil Type	Description
Well Graded	Good distribution of particle sizes
Poorly Graded	Uniform particle sizes
Gap Graded	Missing certain particle sizes

Advantages

· Simple and economical

· Accurate for coarse soils

· Helps in soil classification

Limitations

· Not suitable for very fine soils

· Requires dry sample

· Time-consuming for large samples

Standard Codes

IS 2720 Part 4 – Grain Size Analysis

ASTM D6913

Applications

· Road construction

· Concrete mix design

· Earth embankments

· Filter material design

· Foundation engineering