Designation: D4767 – 11

Standard Test Method for

Consolidated Undrained Triaxial Compression Test for
Cohesive Soils1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4767; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope* 1.6.1 The gravitational system of inch-pound units is used

1.1 This test method covers the determination of strength when dealing with inch-pound units. In this system, the pound
and stress-strain relationships of a cylindrical specimen of (lbf) represents a unit of force (weight), while the unit for mass
either an intact, reconstituted, or remolded saturated cohesive is slugs. The slug unit is not given, unless dynamic (F = ma)
soil. Specimens are isotropically consolidated and sheared in calculations are involved.
compression without drainage at a constant rate of axial 1.6.2 It is common practice in the engineering/construction
deformation (strain controlled). profession to concurrently use pounds to represent both a unit
1.2 This test method provides for the calculation of total and of mass (lbm) and of force (lbf). This implicitly combines two
effective stresses, and axial compression by measurement of separate systems of units; that is, the absolute system and the
axial load, axial deformation, and pore-water pressure. gravitational system. It is scientifically undesirable to combine
1.3 This test method provides data useful in determining the use of two separate sets of inch-pound units within a single
strength and deformation properties of cohesive soils such as standard. As stated, this standard includes the gravitational
Mohr strength envelopes and Young’s modulus. Generally, system of inch-pound units and does not use/present the slug
three specimens are tested at different effective consolidation unit for mass. However, the use of balances or scales recording
stresses to define a strength envelope. pounds of mass (lbm) or recording density in lbm/ft3 shall not
1.4 The determination of strength envelopes and the devel- be regarded as nonconformance with this standard.
opment of relationships to aid in interpreting and evaluating 1.6.3 The terms density and unit weight are often used
test results are beyond the scope of this test method and must interchangeably. Density is mass per unit volume whereas unit
be performed by a qualified, experienced professional. weight is force per unit volume. In this standard density is
1.5 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the given only in SI units. After the density has been determined,
guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in the unit weight is calculated in SI or inch-pound units, or both.
Practice D6026. 1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the
1.5.1 The methods used to specify how data are collected, safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
calculated, or recorded in this standard are regarded as the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
significant digits that generally should be retained. The proce- bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
dures used do not consider material variation, purpose for
2. Referenced Documents
obtaining the data, special purpose studies or any consideration
of end use. It is beyond the scope of this test method to 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
consider significant digits used in analysis methods for engi- D422 Test Method for Particle-Size Analysis of Soils
neering design. D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
1.6 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded Fluids
as standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are D854 Test Methods for Specific Gravity of Soil Solids by
mathematical conversions which are provided for information Water Pycnometer
purposes only and are not considered standard. Reporting of D1587 Practice for Thin-Walled Tube Sampling of Soils for
test results in units other than SI shall not be regarded as Geotechnical Purposes
nonconformance with this test method. D2166 Test Method for Unconfined Compressive Strength
of Cohesive Soil
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.05 on Strength and
2
Compressibility of Soils. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Jan. 15, 2011. Published February 2011. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1988. Last previou edition approved in 2004 as D4767–04. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D4767-11. the ASTM website.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard.

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 D4767 – 11
D2216 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Wa- be applied to field conditions where full drainage can occur
ter (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass (drained conditions) or where pore pressures induced by
D2435 Test Methods for One-Dimensional Consolidation loading can be estimated, and the field stress conditions are
Properties of Soils Using Incremental Loading similar to those in the test method.
D2850 Test Method for Unconsolidated-Undrained Triaxial 4.4 The shear strength determined from the test expressed in
Compression Test on Cohesive Soils terms of total stresses (undrained conditions) or effective
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies stresses (drained conditions) is commonly used in embankment
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as stability analyses, earth pressure calculations, and foundation
Used in Engineering Design and Construction design.
D4220 Practices for Preserving and Transporting Soil
Samples NOTE 2—Notwithstanding the statements on precision and bias con-
tained in this test method. The precision of this test method is dependent
D4318 Test Methods for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and on the competence of the personnel performing it and the suitability of the
Plasticity Index of Soils equipment and facilities used. Agencies which meet the criteria of Practice
D4753 Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying D3740 are generally considered capable of competent testing. Users of
Balances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and this test method are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does
Construction Materials Testing not ensure reliable testing. Reliable testing depends on several factors;
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
Data
5. Apparatus
3. Terminology 5.1 The requirements for equipment needed to perform
3.1 Definitions—For standard definitions of common tech- satisfactory tests are given in the following sections. See Fig.
nical terms, refer to Terminology D653. 1 and Fig. 2
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: 5.2 Axial Loading Device—The axial loading device shall
3.2.1 back pressure—a pressure applied to the specimen be a screw jack driven by an electric motor through a geared
pore-water to cause air in the pore space to compress and to transmission, a hydraulic loading device, or any other com-
pass into solution in the pore-water thereby increasing the pression device with sufficient capacity and control to provide
percent saturation of the specimen. the rate of axial strain (loading) prescribed in 8.4.2. The rate of
3.2.2 effective consolidation stress—the difference between advance of the loading device shall not deviate by more than
the cell pressure and the pore-water pressure prior to shearing 61 % from the selected value. Vibration due to the operation
the specimen. of the loading device shall be sufficiently small to not cause
3.2.3 failure—a maximum-stress condition or stress at a dimensional changes in the specimen or to produce changes in
defined strain for a test specimen. Failure is often taken to pore-water pressure when the drainage valves are closed.
correspond to the maximum principal stress difference (maxi-
NOTE 3—A loading device may be judged to produce sufficiently small
mum deviator stress) attained or the principal stress difference vibrations if there are no visible ripples in a glass of water placed on the
(deviator stress) at 15 % axial strain, whichever is obtained first loading platform when the device is operating at the speed at which the
during the performance of a test. Depending on soil behavior test is performed.
and field application, other suitable failure criteria may be
5.3 Axial Load-Measuring Device—The axial load-
defined, such as maximum effective stress obliquity, (s18/
measuring device shall be an electronic load cell, hydraulic
s38)max, or the principal stress difference (deviator stress) at a
load cell, or any other load-measuring device capable of the
selected axial strain other than 15 %.
accuracy prescribed in this paragraph and may be a part of the
4. Significance and Use axial loading device. The axial load-measuring device shall be
capable of measuring the axial load to an accuracy of within
4.1 The shear strength of a saturated soil in triaxial com- 1 % of the axial load at failure. If the load-measuring device is
pression depends on the stresses applied, time of consolidation, located inside the triaxial compression chamber, it shall be
strain rate, and the stress history experienced by the soil. insensitive to horizontal forces and to the magnitude of the
4.2 In this test method, the shear characteristics are mea- chamber pressure.
sured under undrained conditions and is applicable to field
5.4 Triaxial Compression Chamber—The triaxial chamber
conditions where soils that have been fully consolidated under
shall have a working chamber pressure equal to the sum of the
one set of stresses are subjected to a change in stress without
effective consolidation stress and the back pressure. It shall
time for further consolidation to take place (undrained condi-
consist of a top plate and a base plate separated by a cylinder.
tion), and the field stress conditions are similar to those in the
The cylinder may be constructed of any material capable of
test method.
withstanding the applied pressures. It is desirable to use a
NOTE 1—If the strength is required for the case where the soil is not transparent material or have a cylinder provided with viewing
consolidated during testing prior to shear, refer to Test Method D2850 or ports so the behavior of the specimen may be observed. The top
Test Method D2166. plate shall have a vent valve such that air can be forced out of
4.3 Using the pore-water pressure measured during the test, the chamber as it is filled. The baseplate shall have an inlet
the shear strength determined from this test method can be through which to fill the chamber, and inlets leading to the
expressed in terms of effective stress. This shear strength may specimen base and to the cap to allow saturation and drainage

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 D4767 – 11

FIG. 1 Schematic Diagram of a Typical Consolidated Undrained Triaxial Apparatus

FIG. 2 Filter Strip Cage

of the specimen when required. The chamber shall provide a NOTE 5—A minimum piston diameter of 1⁄6 the specimen diameter has
connection to the cap. been used successfully in many laboratories to minimize lateral bending.
5.5 Axial Load Piston—The piston passing through the top 5.6 Pressure and Vacuum-Control Devices—The chamber
of the chamber and its seal must be designed so the variation pressure and back pressure control devices shall be capable of
in axial load due to friction does not exceed 0.1 % of the axial applying and controlling pressures to within 62 kPa (0.25
load at failure and so there is negligible lateral bending of the lb/in.2) for effective consolidation pressures less than 200 kPa
piston during loading. (28 lbf/in.2) and to within 61 % for effective consolidation
NOTE 4—The use of two linear ball bushings to guide the piston is pressures greater than 200 kPa. The vacuum-control device
recommended to minimize friction and maintain alignment. shall be capable of applying and controlling partial vacuums to

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 D4767 – 11
within 62 kPa. The devices shall consist of pressure/volume 5.10 Deformation Indicator—The vertical deformation of
controllers pneumatic pressure regulators, combination pneu- the specimen is usually determined from the travel of the piston
matic pressure and vacuum regulators, or any other device acting on the top of the specimen. The piston travel shall be
capable of applying and controlling pressures or partial vacu- measured with an accuracy of at least 0.25 % of the initial
ums to the required tolerances. These tests can require a test specimen height. The deformation indicator shall have a range
duration of several day. Therefore, an air/water interface is not of at least 15 % of the initial height of the specimen and may
recommended for either the chamber pressure or back pressure be a dial indicator or other measuring device meeting the
systems, unless isolated from the specimen and chamber (e.g. requirements for accuracy and range.
by long tubing). 5.11 Specimen Cap and Base—The specimen cap and base
5.7 Pressure- and Vacuum-Measurement Devices—The shall be designed to provide drainage from both ends of the
chamber pressure-, back pressure-, and vacuum-measuring specimen. They shall be constructed of a rigid, noncorrosive,
devices shall be capable of measuring pressures or partial impermeable material, and each shall, except for the drainage
vacuums to the tolerances given in 5.6. They may consist of provision, have a circular plane surface of contact with the
electronic pressure transducers, or any other device capable of porous disks and a circular cross section. It is desirable for the
measuring pressures, or partial vacuums to the stated toler- mass of the specimen cap and top porous disk to be as minimal
ances. If separate devices are used to measure the chamber as possible. However, the mass may be as much as 10 % of the
pressure and back pressure, the devices must be calibrated axial load at failure. If the mass is greater than 0.5 % of the
simultaneously and against the same pressure source. Since the applied axial load at failure and greater than 50 g, the axial load
chamber and back pressure are the pressures taken at the must be corrected for the mass of the specimen cap and top
mid-height of the specimen, it may be necessary to adjust the porous disk. The diameter of the cap and base shall be equal to
calibration of the devices to reflect the hydraulic head of fluids the initial diameter of the specimen. The specimen base shall
in the chamber and back pressure control systems. be connected to the triaxial compression chamber to prevent
lateral motion or tilting, and the specimen cap shall be
5.8 Pore-Water Pressure-Measurement Device—The speci-
designed such that eccentricity of the piston-to-cap contact
men pore-water pressure shall also be measured to the toler-
relative to the vertical axis of the specimen does not exceed 1.3
ances given in 5.6. During undrained shear, the pore-water
mm (0.05 in.). The end of the piston and specimen cap contact
pressure shall be measured in such a manner that as little water
area shall be designed so that tilting of the specimen cap during
as possible is allowed to go into or out of the specimen. To
the test is minimal. The cylindrical surface of the specimen
achieve this requirement, a very stiff electronic pressure
base and cap that contacts the membrane to form a seal shall be
transducer or null-indicating device must be used. With an
smooth and free of scratches.
electronic pressure transducer the pore-water pressure is read
5.12 Porous Discs—Two rigid porous disks shall be used to
directly. With a null-indicating device a pressure control is
provide drainage at the ends of the specimen. The coefficient of
continuously adjusted to maintain a constant level of the
permeability of the disks shall be approximately equal to that
water/mercury interface in the capillary bore of the device. The
of fine sand (1 3 10−4 cm/s (4 3 10 −5 in./s)). The disks shall
pressure required to prevent movement of the water is equal to
be regularly cleaned by ultrasonic or boiling and brushing and
the pore-water pressure. Both measuring devices shall have a
checked to determine whether they have become clogged.
compliance of all the assembled parts of the pore-water
5.13 Filter-Paper Strips and Disks— Filter-paper strips are
pressure-measurement system relative to the total volume of
used by many laboratories to decrease the time required for
the specimen, satisfying the following requirement:
testing. Filter-paper disks of a diameter equal to that of the
~DV/V!/Du < 3.2 3 10 –6 m2 / kN ~2.2 3 10–5 in.2 / lb! (1) specimen may be placed between the porous disks and speci-
men to avoid clogging of the porous disks. If filter strips or
where:
disks are used, they shall be of a type that does not dissolve in
DV = change in volume of the pore-water measurement
water. The coefficient of permeability of the filter paper shall
system due to a pore pressure change, mm3(in.3),
V = total volume of the specimen, mm3(in.3), and not be less than 1 3 10−5 cm/s (4 3 10−6 in./s) for a normal
Du = change in pore pressure, kPa (lbf/in.2). pressure of 550 kPa (80 lbf/in.2). To avoid hoop tension, filter
strips should cover no more than 50 % of the specimen
NOTE 6—To meet the compliance requirement, tubing between the periphery. Filter-strip cages have been successfully used by
specimen and the measuring device should be short and thick-walled with many laboratories. An equation for correcting the principal
small bores. Thermoplastic, copper, and stainless steel tubing have been stress difference (deviator stress) for the effect of the strength
used successfully. To measure this compliance, assemble the triaxial cell
of vertical filter strips is given in 10.4.3.1.
without a specimen. Then, open the appropriate valves, increase the
pressure, and record the volume change. NOTE 7—Grade No. 54 Filter Paper has been found to meet the
permeability and durability requirements.
5.9 Volume Change Measurement Device— The volume of
water entering or leaving the specimen shall be measured with 5.14 Rubber Membrane—The rubber membrane used to
an accuracy of within 60.05 % of the total volume of the encase the specimen shall provide reliable protection against
specimen. The volume measuring device is usually a burette leakage. Membranes shall be carefully inspected prior to use
connected to the back pressure but may be any other device and if any flaws or pinholes are evident, the membrane shall be
meeting the accuracy requirement. The device must be able to discarded. To offer minimum restraint to the specimen, the
withstand the maximum back pressure. unstretched membrane diameter shall be between 90 and 95 %

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 D4767 – 11
of that of the specimen. The membrane thickness shall not 6. Test Specimen Preparation
exceed 1 % of the diameter of the specimen. The membrane 6.1 Specimen Size—Specimens shall be cylindrical and
shall be sealed to the specimen cap and base with rubber have a minimum diameter of 33 mm (1.3 in.). The average
O-rings for which the unstressed inside diameter is between 75 height-to-average diameter ratio shall be between 2 and 2.5.
and 85 % of the diameter of the cap and base, or by other The largest particle size shall be smaller than 1⁄6 the specimen
means that will provide a positive seal. An equation for diameter. If, after completion of a test, it is found based on
correcting the principal stress difference (deviator stress) for visual observation that oversize particles are present, indicate
the effect of the stiffness of the membrane is given in 10.4.3.2. this information in the report of test data (11.2.23).
5.15 Valves—Changes in volume due to opening and clos-
ing valves may result in inaccurate volume change and NOTE 10—If oversize particles are found in the specimen after testing,
a particle-size analysis may be performed on the tested specimen in
pore-water pressure measurements. For this reason, valves in
accordance with Test Method D422 to confirm the visual observation and
the specimen drainage system shall be of the type that produce the results provided with the test report (11.2.4).
minimum volume changes due to their operation. A valve may
be assumed to produce minimum volume change if opening or 6.2 Intact Specimens—Prepare intact specimens from large
closing the valve in a closed, saturated pore-water pressure intact samples or from samples secured in accordance with
system does not induce a pressure change of greater than 0.7 Practice D1587 or other acceptable intact tube sampling
kPa (60.1 lbf/in.2). All valves must be capable of withstanding procedures. Samples shall be preserved and transported in
applied pressures without leakage. accordance with the practices for Group C samples in Practices
D4220. Specimens obtained by tube sampling may be tested
NOTE 8—Ball valves have been found to provide minimum volume-
without trimming except for cutting the end surfaces plane and
change characteristics; however, any other type of valve having suitable
volume-change characteristics may be used. perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the specimen, pro-
vided soil characteristics are such that no significant distur-
5.16 Specimen-Size Measurement Devices— Devices used
bance results from sampling. Handle specimens carefully to
to determine the height and diameter of the specimen shall
minimize disturbance, changes in cross section, or change in
measure the respective dimensions to four significant digits and
water content. If compression or any type of noticeable
shall be constructed such that their use will not disturb/deform
disturbance would be caused by the extrusion device, split the
the specimen.
sample tube lengthwise or cut the tube in suitable sections to
NOTE 9—Circumferential measuring tapes are recommended over cali- facilitate removal of the specimen with minimum disturbance.
pers for measuring the diameter. Prepare trimmed specimens, in an environment such as a
5.17 Sample Extruder—The sample extruder shall be ca- controlled high-humidity room where soil water content
pable of extruding the soil core from the sampling tube at a change is minimized. Where removal of pebbles or crumbling
uniform rate in the same direction of travel as the sample resulting from trimming causes voids on the surface of the
entered the tube and with minimum disturbance of the sample. specimen, carefully fill the voids with remolded soil obtained
If the soil core is not extruded vertically, care should be taken from the trimmings. If the sample can be trimmed with
to avoid bending stresses on the core due to gravity. Conditions minimal disturbance, a vertical trimming lathe may be used to
at the time of sample removal may dictate the direction of reduce the specimen to the required diameter. After obtaining
removal, but the principal concern is to minimize the degree of the required diameter, place the specimen in a miter box, and
disturbance. cut the specimen to the final height with a wire saw or other
5.18 Timer—A timing device indicating the elapsed testing suitable device. Trim the surfaces with the steel straightedge.
time to the nearest 1 s shall be used to obtain consolidation data Perform one or more water content determinations on material
(8.3.3). trimmed from the specimen in accordance with Test Method
5.19 Balance—A balance or scale conforming to the re- D2216.
quirements of Specification D4753 readable to four significant 6.3 Reconsituted Specimens—Soil required for reconsti-
digits. tuted specimens shall be thoroughly mixed with sufficient
5.20 Water Deaeration Device—The amount of dissolved water to produce the desired water content. If water is added to
gas (air) in the water used to saturate the specimen shall be the soil, store the material in a covered container for at least 16
decreased by boiling, by heating and spraying into a vacuum, h prior to compaction. Reconsituted specimens may be pre-
or by any other method that will satisfy the requirement for pared by compacting material in at least six layers using a split
saturating the specimen within the limits imposed by the mold of circular cross section having dimensions meeting the
available maximum back pressure and time to perform the test. requirements enumerated in 6.1. Specimens may be reconsti-
5.21 Testing Environment—The consolidation and shear tuted to the desired density by either: (1) kneading or tamping
portion of the test shall be performed in an environment where each layer until the accumulative mass of the soil placed in the
temperature fluctuations are less than 64°C (67.2°F) and there mold is reconstituted to a known volume; or (2) by adjusting
is no direct contact with sunlight. the number of layers, the number of tamps per layer, and the
5.22 Miscellaneous Apparatus—Specimen trimming and force per tamp. The top of each layer shall be scarified prior to
carving tools including a wire saw, steel straightedge, miter the addition of material for the next layer. The tamper used to
box, vertical trimming lathe, apparatus for preparing reconsti- compact the material shall have a diameter equal to or less than
tuted specimens, membrane and O-ring expander, water con- 1⁄2 the diameter of the mold. After a specimen is formed, with

tent cans, and data sheets shall be provided as required. the ends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, remove the

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 D4767 – 11
mold and determine the mass and dimensions of the specimen and the specimen cap on top of the specimen. Check that the
using the devices described in 5.16 and 5.19. Perform one or specimen cap, specimen, filter-paper disks (if used) and porous
more water content determinations on excess material used to disks are centered on the specimen base.
prepare the specimen in accordance with Test Method D2216. 7.2.1.5 If filter-paper strips or a filter-paper cage are to be
6.4 Determine the mass and dimensions of the specimen used, saturate the paper with water prior to placing it on the
using the devices described in 5.16 and 5.19. A minimum of specimen. To avoid hoop tension, do not cover more than 50 %
three height measurements (120° apart) and at least three of the specimen periphery with vertical strips of filter paper.
diameter measurements at the quarter points of the height shall 7.2.1.6 Proceed with 7.3.
be made to determine the average height and diameter of the 7.2.2 Dry Mounting Method:
specimen. An individual measurement of height or diameter 7.2.2.1 Dry the specimen drainage system. This may be
shall not vary from average by more than 5 %. accomplished by allowing dry air to flow through the system
NOTE 11—It is common for the density or unit weight of the specimen
prior to mounting the specimen.
after removal from the mold to be less than the value based on the volume 7.2.2.2 Dry the porous disks in an oven and then place the
of the mold. This occurs as a result of the specimen swelling after removal disks in a desiccator to cool to room temperature prior to
of the lateral confinement due to the mold. mounting the specimen.
7.2.2.3 Place a dry porous disk on the specimen base and
7. Mounting Specimen place the specimen on the disk. Next, place a dry porous disk
7.1 Preparations—Before mounting the specimen in the and the specimen cap on the specimen. Check that the
triaxial chamber, make the following preparations: specimen cap, porous disks, and specimen are centered on the
7.1.1 Inspect the rubber membrane for flaws, pinholes, and specimen base.
leaks. NOTE 13—If desired, dry filter-paper disks may be placed between the
7.1.2 Place the membrane on the membrane expander or, if porous disks and specimen.
it is to be rolled onto the specimen, roll the membrane on the
7.2.2.4 If filter-paper strips or a filter-paper cage are to be
cap or base.
used, the cage or strips may be held in place by small pieces of
7.1.3 Check that the porous disks and specimen drainage
tape at the top and bottom.
tubes are not obstructed by passing air or water through the
7.3 Place the rubber membrane around the specimen and
appropriate lines.
seal it at the cap and base with two rubber O-rings or other
7.1.4 Attach the pressure-control and volume-measurement
positive seal at each end. A thin coating of silicon grease on the
system and a pore-pressure measurement device to the cham-
vertical surfaces of the cap and base will aid in sealing the
ber base.
membrane. If filter-paper strips or a filter-paper cage are used,
7.2 Depending on whether the saturation portion of the test
do not apply grease to surfaces in contact with the filter-paper.
will be initiated with either a wet or dry drainage system,
7.4 Attach the top drainage line and check the alignment of
mount the specimen using the appropriate method, as follows
the specimen and the specimen cap. If the dry mounting
in either 7.2.1 or 7.2.2. The dry mounting method is strongly
method has been used, apply a partial vacuum of approxi-
recommended for specimens with initial saturation less than
mately 35 kPa (5 lbf/in.2) (not to exceed the consolidation
90 %. The dry mounting method removes air prior to adding
stress) to the specimen through the top drainage line prior to
backpressure and lowers the backpressure needed to attain an
checking the alignment. If there is any eccentricity, release the
adequate percent saturation.
partial vacuum, realign the specimen and cap, and then reapply
NOTE 12—It is recommended that the dry mounting method be used for the partial vacuum. If the wet mounting method has been used,
specimens of soils that swell appreciably when in contact with water. If the alignment of the specimen and the specimen cap may be
the wet mounting method is used for such soils, it will be necessary to
checked and adjusted without the use of a partial vacuum.
obtain the specimen dimensions after the specimen has been mounted. In
such cases, it will be necessary to determine the double thickness of the
membrane, the double thickness of the wet filter paper strips (if used), and 8. Procedure
the combined height of the cap, base, and porous disks (including the 8.1 Prior to Saturation—After assembling the triaxial
thickness of filter disks if they are used) so that the appropriate values may chamber, perform the following operations:
be subtracted from the measurements.
8.1.1 Bring the axial load piston into contact with the
7.2.1 Wet Mounting Method: specimen cap several times to permit proper seating and
7.2.1.1 Fill the specimen drainage lines and the pore-water alignment of the piston with the cap. During this procedure,
pressure measurement device with deaired water. take care not to apply an axial load to the specimen exceeding
7.2.1.2 Saturate the porous disks by boiling them in water 0.5 % of the estimated axial load at failure. When the piston is
for at least 10 min and allow to cool to room temperature. brought into contact, record the reading of the deformation
7.2.1.3 If filter-paper disks are to be placed between the indicator to three significant digits.
porous disks and specimen, saturate the paper with water prior 8.1.2 Fill the chamber with the chamber liquid, being
to placement. careful to avoid trapping air or leaving an air space in the
7.2.1.4 Place a saturated porous disk on the specimen base chamber.
and wipe away all free water on the disk. If filter-paper disks 8.2 Saturation—The objective of the saturation phase of the
are used, placed on the porous disk. Place the specimen on the test is to fill all voids in the specimen with water without
disk. Next, place another filter-paper disk (if used), porous disk undesirable prestressing of the specimen or allowing the

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 D4767 – 11
specimen to swell. Saturation is usually accomplished by this part of the procedure. When water appears in the burette
applying back pressure to the specimen pore water to drive air connected to the top of the specimen, close the valve to the
into solution after saturating the system by either: (1) applying bottom of the specimen and fill the burette with deaired water.
vacuum to the specimen and dry drainage system (lines, porous Next, reduce the vacuum acting on top of the specimen through
disks, pore-pressure device, filter-strips or cage, and disks) and the burette to atmospheric pressure while simultaneously
then allowing deaired water to flow through the system and increasing the chamber pressure by an equal amount. This
specimen while maintaining the vacuum; or (2) saturating the process should be performed slowly such that the difference
drainage system by boiling the porous disks in water and between the pore pressure measured at the bottom of the
allowing water to flow through the system prior to mounting specimen and the pressure at the top of the specimen should be
the specimen. It should be noted that placing the air into allowed to equalize. When the pore pressure at the bottom of
solution is a function of both time and pressure. Accordingly, the specimen stabilizes, proceed with back pressuring of the
removing as much air as possible prior to applying back specimen pore-water as described in 8.2.3.1. To check for
pressure will decrease the amount of air that will have to be equalization, close the drainage valves to the specimen and
placed into solution and will also decrease the back pressure measure the pore pressure change until stable. If the change is
required for saturation. In addition, air remaining in the less than 5 % of the chamber pressure, the pore pressure may
specimen and drainage system just prior to applying back be assumed to be stabilized.
pressure will go into solution much more readily if deaired
NOTE 14—For saturated clays, percolation may not be necessary and
water is used for saturation. The use of deaired water will also water can be added simultaneously at both top and bottom.
decrease the time and back pressure required for saturation.
Many procedures have been developed to accomplish satura- 8.2.2 Starting with Initially Saturated Drainage System—
tion. The following are suggested procedures: After filling the burette connected to the top of the specimen
8.2.1 Starting with Initially Dry Drainage System—Increase with deaired water, apply a chamber pressure of 35 kPa (5
the partial vacuum acting on top of the specimen to the lbf/in.2) or less and open the specimen drainage valves. When
maximum available vacuum. If the effective consolidation the pore pressure at the bottom of the specimen stabilizes,
stress under which the strength is to be determined is less than according to the method described in 8.2.1, or when the burette
the maximum partial vacuum, apply a lower partial vacuum to reading stabilizes, back pressuring of the specimen pore-water
the chamber. The difference between the partial vacuum may be initiated.
applied to the specimen and the chamber should never exceed 8.2.3 Back-Pressure Saturation—To saturate the specimen,
the effective consolidation stress for the test and should not be back pressuring is usually necessary. Fig. 33 provides guidance
less than 35 kPa (5 lbf/in.2) to allow for flow through the on back pressure required to attain saturation. Additional
sample. After approximately 10 min, allow deaired water to
percolate from the bottom to the top of the specimen under a
differential vacuum of less than 20 kPa (3 lbf/in.2) (Note 14). 3
Lowe, J., and Johnson, T. C., “Use of Back Pressure to Increase Degree of
8.2.1.1 There should always be a positive effective stress of Saturation of Triaxial Test Specimens,” Proceedings, ASCE Research Conference on
at least 13 kPa (2 lbf/in.2) at the bottom of the specimen during Shear Strength of Cohesive Soils , Boulder, CO, 1960

FIG. 3 Pressure to Attain Various Degrees of Saturation

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 D4767 – 11
guidance on the back-pressure process is given by Black and NOTE 19—Many laboratories use differential pressure regulators and
Lee4 and Head5 (See Note 15 on references). transducers to achieve the requirements for small differences between
chamber and back pressure.
NOTE 15—The references presented are for informational purposes
only. 8.2.4 Measurement of the Pore Pressure Parameter
B—Determine the value of the pore pressure Parameter B in
8.2.3.1 Applying Back Pressure—Simultaneously increase accordance with 8.2.4.1 through 8.2.4.4. The pore pressure
the chamber and back pressure in steps with specimen drainage Parameter B is defined by the following equation:
valves opened so that deaired water from the burette connected
to the top and bottom of the specimen may flow into the B 5 Du/Ds3 (2)
specimen. To avoid undesirable prestressing of the specimen where:
while applying back pressure, the pressures must be applied Du = change in the specimen pore pressure that occurs as
incrementally with adequate time between increments to per- a result of a change in the chamber pressure when
mit equalization of pore-water pressure throughout the speci- the specimen drainage valves are closed, and
men. The size of each increment may range from 35 kPa (5 Ds3 = change in the chamber pressure.
lbf/in.2) up to 140 kPa (20 lbf/in.2), depending on the magni- 8.2.4.1 Close the specimen drainage valves, record the pore
tude of the desired effective consolidation stress, and the pressure, to the nearest 0.7 kPa (0.1 psi), and increase the
percent saturation of the specimen just prior to the addition of chamber pressure by 70 kPa (10 lbf/in.2).
the increment. The difference between the chamber pressure 8.2.4.2 After approximately 2 min, determine and record the
and the back pressure during back pressuring should not maximum value of the induced pore pressure to the nearest 0.7
exceed 35 kPa unless it is deemed necessary to control swelling kPa (0.1 psi),. For many specimens, the pore pressure may
of the specimen during the procedure. The difference between decrease after the immediate response and then increase
the chamber and back pressure must also remain within 65 % slightly with time. If this occurs, values of Du should be plotted
when the pressures are raised and within6 2 % when the with time and the asymptotic pore pressure used as the change
pressures are constant. To check for equalization after appli- in pore pressure. A large increase in Du with time or values of
cation of a back pressure increment or after the full value of Du greater than Ds3 indicate a leak of chamber fluid into the
back pressure has been applied, close the specimen drainage specimen. Decreasing values of Du with time may indicate a
valves and measure the change in pore-pressure over a 1-min leak in that part of the pore pressure measurement system
interval. If the change in pore pressure is less than 5 % of the located outside of the chamber.
difference between the chamber pressure and the back pres- 8.2.4.3 Calculate the B-value using Eq 2.
sure, another back pressure increment may be added or a 8.2.4.4 Reapply the same effective consolidation stress as
measurement may be taken of the pore pressure Parameter B existed prior to the B-value by reducing the chamber pressure
(see 8.2.4) to determine if saturation is completed. Specimens by 70 kPa (10 lbf/in.2) or by alternatively, increasing the back
shall be considered to be saturated if the value of B is equal to pressure by 70 kPa. If B is continuing to increase with
or greater than 0.95, or if B remains unchanged with addition increasing back pressure, continue with back pressure satura-
of back pressure increments. tion. If B is equal to or greater than 0.95 or if a plot of B versus
NOTE 16—The relationships presented in Fig. 3 are based on the back pressure indicates no further increase in B with increasing
assumption that the water used for back pressuring is deaired and that the back pressure, initiate consolidation.
only source for air to dissolve into the water is air from the test specimen. 8.3 Consolidation—The objective of the consolidation
If air pressure is used to control the back pressure, pressurized air will phase of the test is to allow the specimen to reach equilibrium
dissolve into the water, thus reducing the capacity of the water used for in a drained state at the effective consolidation stress for which
back pressure to dissolve air located in the pores of the test specimen. The
problem is minimized by using a long (>5 m) tube that is impermeable to
a strength determination is required. During consolidation, data
air between the air-water interface and test specimen, by separating the is obtained for use in determining when consolidation is
back-pressure water from the air by a material or fluid that is relatively complete and for computing a rate of strain to be used for the
impermeable to air, by periodically replacing the back-pressure water with shear portion of the test. The consolidation procedure is as
deaired water, or by other means. follows:
NOTE 17—Although the pore pressure Parameter B is used to determine 8.3.1 When the saturation phase of the test is completed,
adequate saturation, the B-value is also a function of soil stiffness. If the bring the axial load piston into contact with the specimen cap,
saturation of the sample is 100 %, the B-value measurement will increase
with decreasing soil stiffness. Therefore, when testing soft soil samples, a
and record the reading on the deformation indicator to three
B-value of 95 % may indicate a saturation less than 100 %. significant digits. During this procedure, take care not to apply
NOTE 18—The back pressure required to saturate a reconstituted an axial load to the specimen exceeding 0.5 % of the estimated
specimen may be higher for the wet mounting method than for the dry axial load at failure. After recording the reading, raise the
mounting method and may be as high as 1400 kPa (200 lb/in.2). piston a small distance above the specimen cap, and lock the
piston in place.
8.3.2 With the specimen drainage valves closed, hold the
4
Black, A. W. and Lee, K. L. (1973), “Saturating Laboratory Samples by Back maximum back pressure constant and increase the chamber
Pressure,” Journal of the Soil Mechanics and Foundation Division, ASCE, Vol. 99, pressure until the difference between the chamber pressure and
No. SM1, Proc. Paper 9484, Jan., pp. 75–93.
5
Head, K. H., (1986), Manual of Soil Laboratory Testing, Volume 3: Effective
the back pressure equals the desired effective consolidation
Stress Tests, Pentech Press Limited, Graham Lodge, London, United Kingdom, pp. pressure. Consolidation in stages is required when the final
787–796. effective consolidation stress is greater than 40 kPa (5.8 lb/in.2)

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 D4767 – 11
and filter strips for radial drainage are used. The load increment 8.4.1.2 Place the chamber in position in the axial loading
ratio shall not exceed two. device. Be careful to align the axial loading device, the axial
8.3.3 Obtain an initial reading on the volume change device, load-measuring device, and the triaxial chamber to prevent the
and, then open appropriate drainage valves so that the speci- application of a lateral force to the piston during shear.
men may drain from both ends into the volume change device. 8.4.1.3 Bring the axial load piston into contact with the
At increasing intervals of elapsed time (0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, specimen cap to permit proper seating and realignment of the
piston with the cap. During this procedure, care should be
15, and 30 min and at 1, 2, 4, and 8 h, and so forth) observe and
taken not to apply an axial load to the specimen exceeding
record the volume change readings, and, after the 15-min
0.5 % of the estimated axial load at failure. If the axial
reading, record the accompanying deformation indicator read-
load-measuring device is located outside of the triaxial cham-
ings obtained by carefully bringing the piston in contact with ber, the chamber pressure will produce an upward force on the
the specimen cap. If volume change and deformation indicator piston that will react against the axial loading device. In this
readings are to be plotted against the square root of time, the case, start shear with the piston slightly above the specimen
time intervals at which readings are taken may be adjusted to cap, and before the piston comes into contact with the
those that have easily obtained square roots, for example, 0.09, specimen cap, either (1) measure and record the initial piston
0.25, 0.49, 1, 4, and 9 min, and so forth. Depending on soil friction and upward thrust of the piston produced by the
type, time intervals may be changed to convenient time chamber pressure and later correct the measured axial load, or
intervals which allow for adequate definition of volume change (2) adjust the axial load-measuring device to compensate for
versus time. the friction and thrust. The variation in the axial load-
measuring device reading should not exceed 0.1 % of the
NOTE 20—In cases where significant amounts of fines may be washed estimated failure load when the piston is moving downward
from the specimen because of high initial hydraulic gradients, it is
prior to contacting the specimen cap. If the axial load-
permissible to gradually increase the chamber pressure to the total desired
measuring device is located inside the chamber, it will not be
pressure over a period with the drainage valves open. If this is done,
recording of data should begin immediately after the total pressure is
necessary to correct or compensate for the uplift force acting
reached. on the axial loading device or for piston friction. However, if
an internal load-measuring device of significant flexibility is
8.3.4 Plot the volume change and deformation indicator used in combination with an external deformation indicator,
readings versus either the logarithm or square root of elapsed correction of the deformation readings may be necessary. In
time. Allow consolidation to continue for at least one log cycle both cases, record the initial reading on the pore-water pressure
of time or one overnight period after 100 % primary consoli- measurement device to the nearest 0.7 kPa (0.1 lbf/in.2)
dation has been achieved as determined in accordance with one immediately prior to when the piston contacts the specimen cap
of the procedures outlined in Test Method D2435. A marked and the reading on the deformation indicator to three signifi-
deviation between the slopes of the volume change and cant digits when the piston contacts the specimen cap.
deformation indicator curves toward the end of consolidation 8.4.1.4 Check for pore pressure stabilization. Record the
based on deformation indicator readings indicates leakage of pore pressure to the nearest 0.7 kPa (0.1 lbf/in.2). Close the
fluid from the chamber into the specimen, and the test shall be drainage valves to the specimen, and measure the pore pressure
terminated. change until stable. If the change is less than 5 % of the
chamber pressure, the pore pressure may be assumed to be
8.3.5 Determine the time for 50 % primary consolidation,
stabilized.
t50, in accordance with one of the procedures outlined in Test
8.4.2 Axial Loading—Apply axial load to the specimen
Method D2435. If the specimen swells or does not consolidate
using a rate of axial strain that will produce approximate
at the final effective consolidation stress, determine the reason
equalization of pore pressures throughout the specimen at
for this behavior and verify that it is not equipment malfunc- failure. Assuming failure will occur after 4 %, a suitable rate of
tion. If similar specimens are being tested at higher final ·
effective consolidation stress and have consolidation data, use strain, ´, may be determined from the following equation:
the t50 from these tests. If no other data is available, use a strain ·
´ 5 4 %/~10 t50! (3)
rate of 1 %/hr.
8.4 Shear—During shear, the chamber pressure shall be where:
kept constant while advancing the axial load piston downward t50 = time value obtained in 8.3.5.
against the specimen cap using controlled axial strain as the If, however, it is estimated that failure will occur at a strain
loading criterion. Specimen drainage is not permitted during value lower than 4 %, a suitable strain rate may be determined
shear. using Eq 3 by replacing 4 % with the estimated failure strain.
This rate of strain will provide for determination of accurate
8.4.1 Prior to Axial Loading—Before initiating shear, per- effective stress paths in the range necessary to define effective
form the following: strength envelopes.
8.4.1.1 By opening or closing the appropriate valves, isolate 8.4.2.1 At a minimum, record load and deformation to three
the specimen so that during shear the specimen pore-water significant digits, and pore-water pressure values to the nearest
pressure will be measured by the pore-pressure measurement 0.7 kPa (0.1 lbf/in.2), at increments of 0.1 to 1 % strain and,
device and no drainage will occur. thereafter, at every 1 %. Take sufficient readings to define the

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 D4767 – 11
stress-strain curve; hence, more frequent readings may be 10.3.1 Height of specimen after consolidation, Hc, is deter-
required in the early stages of the test and as failure is mined from the following equation:
approached. Continue the loading to 15 % strain, except Hc 5 Ho 2 DHo (4)
loading may be stopped when the principal stress difference
(deviator stress) has dropped 20 % or when 5 % additional where:
axial strain occurs after a peak in principal stress difference Ho = initial height of specimen, mm or cm, and
(deviator stress). DHo = change in height of specimen at end of consolida-
tion, mm or cm.
NOTE 21—The use of a manually adjusted null-indicating device will
10.3.2 The cross-sectional area of the specimen after con-
require nearly continuous attention to ensure the criterion for undrained
shear.
solidation, Ac, shall be computed using one of the following
methods. The choice of the method to be used depends on
9. Removing Specimen whether shear data are to be computed as the test is performed
9.1 When shear is completed, perform the following: (in which case Method A would be used) or on which of the
9.1.1 Remove the axial load and reduce the chamber and two methods, in the opinion of a qualified person, yield
back pressures to zero. specimen conditions considered to be most representative of
9.1.2 With the specimen drainage valves remaining closed, those after consolidation. Alternatively, the average of the two
quickly remove the specimen from the apparatus so that the calculated areas may be appropriate.
specimen will not have time to absorb water from the porous 10.3.2.1 Method A:
disks. Ac 5 ~Vo 2 DVsat 2 DVc! / Hc (5)
9.1.3 Remove the rubber membrane (and the filter-paper
strips or cage from the specimen if they were used), and where:
determine the water content of the total specimen in accor- Ac = consolidation, cm2 or m,2
Vo = initial volume of specimen, cm3 or m,3
dance with the procedure in Test Method D2216. (Free water
DVc = change in volume of specimen during consolida-
remaining on the specimen after removal of the membrane
tion as indicated by burette readings, cm3 or m,3
should be blotted away before obtaining the water content.) In
and
cases where there is insufficient material from trimmings for DVsat = change in volume of specimen during saturation
index property tests, that is, where specimens have the same as follows, cm3 or m3:
diameter as the sampling tube, the specimen should be weighed DVsat = 3Vo[DHs/Ho]
prior to removing material for index property tests and a
representative portion of the specimen used to determine its where:
final water content. Prior to placing the specimen (or portion DHs = change in height of the specimen during saturation,
thereof) in the oven to dry, sketch or photograph the specimen mm, cm, or m.
showing the mode of failure (shear plane, bulging, or other). 10.3.2.2 Method B:
Ac 5 ~Vwf 1 Vs! / Hc (6)
10. Calculations
10.1 Calculations are only shown using SI units. Other units where:
are permissible, provided the appropriate unit conversions are Vwf = final volume of water (based on final water content),
used to maintain consistency of units throughout the calcula- cm3 or m,3 and
Vs = volume of solids, cm3 or m,3 as follows:
tions. See 1.6.1-1.6.3 for additional comments on the use of
Vs = ws/(Gspw)
inch-pound units. Measurements and calculations shall contain
a minimum of three significant digits. where:
10.2 Initial Specimen Properties—Using the dry mass of the ws = specimen dry mass, g,
total specimen, calculate and record the initial water content, Gs = specific gravity of solids, and
volume of solids, initial void ratio, initial percent saturation, pw = density of water at 20 °C, 0.9982 g/cm.3
and initial dry unit weight. Calculate the specimen volume 10.3.3 Using the calculated dimensions of the specimen
from values measured in 6.4. Calculate the volume of solids by after consolidation, and assuming that the water content after
dividing the dry mass of the specimen by the specific gravity of consolidation is the same as the final water content, calculate
the solids (Note 22) and dividing by the density of water. the consolidated void ratio and percent saturation.
Calculate the void ratio by dividing the volume of voids by the
NOTE 23—The specimen will absorb water from the porous disks and
volume of solids where the volume of voids is assumed to be drainage lines during the time it is being removed from the apparatus.
the difference between the specimen volume and the volume of When this effect is significant, Method A will yield more reasonable
the solids. Calculate dry density by dividing the dry mass of the values.
specimen by the specimen volume. NOTE 24— In this test method, the equations are written such that
compression and consolidation are considered positive.
NOTE 22—The specific gravity of solids can be determined in accor-
dance with Test Method D854 or it may be assumed based on previous test 10.4 Shear Data:
results. 10.4.1 Calculate the axial strain, ´1, for a given applied axial
10.3 Specimen Properties After Consolidation—Calculate load as follows:
the specimen height and area after consolidation as follows: ´1 5 DH / Hc (7)

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where: ´1 = axial strain (decimal format) for the given axial load,
DH = change in height of specimen during loading as and other terms are the same as those defined in
determined from deformation indicator readings, subparagraph (1) of 10.4.3.1.
mm or cm, and
Hc = height of specimen after consolidation, mm or cm. NOTE 26—For filter-paper generally used in triaxial testing, Kfp is
approximately 0.00019 kN/mm or 0.19 kN/m (1.1 lbf/in.).
10.4.2 Calculate the cross-sectional area, A, for a given
applied axial load as follows: 10.4.3.2 Correction for Rubber Membrane— Use the fol-
A 5 Ac / ~ 1 2 ´1 ! (8)
lowing equation to correct the principal stress difference
(deviator stress) for the effect of the rubber membrane if the
where: error in principal stress difference (deviator stress) due to the
Ac = average cross-sectional area of the specimen after strength of the membrane exceeds 5 %:
consolidation, cm2 or m,2 and D~s1 2 s3!m 5 ~4Emtm´! / Dc (12)
´1 = axial strain (decimal format) for the given axial load.
where:
D(s1 − s3)m = membrane correction to be subtracted
NOTE 25—The cross-sectional area computed in this manner is based from the measured principal stress differ-
on the assumption that the specimen deforms as a right circular cylinder
during shear. In cases where there is localized bulging, it may be possible
ence (deviator stress), kN/m2 = kPa,
to determine more accurate values for the area based on specimen Dc = =4Ac/p = diameter of specimen after
dimension measurements obtained after shear. consolidation, mm or cm,
Em = Young’s modulus for the membrane ma-
10.4.3 Calculate the measured principal stress difference terial, kN/m2= kPa
(deviator stress), s1 − s3, for a given applied axial load as tm = thickness of the membrane, mm or cm,
follows: and
s1 2 s 3 5 P / A (9) ´1 = axial strain (decimal form).
(1) The Young’s modulus of the membrane material may be
where: determined by hanging a 15-mm (0.5-in.) circumferential strip
s1 − s3 = measured principal stress difference or deviator of membrane using a thin rod, placing another rod through the
stress, kN/m2= kPa, bottom of the hanging membrane, and measuring the force per
P = given applied axial load (corrected for uplift and
unit strain obtained by stretching the membrane. The modulus
piston friction if required as obtained in
value may be computed using the following equation:
10.4.3.1), kN, and
A = corresponding cross-sectional area, cm2 or m.2 Em 5 ~F /Am! / ~DL/L! (13)
10.4.3.1 Correction for Filter-Paper Strips— For vertical where:
filter-paper strips which extend over the total length of the Em = Young’s modulus of the membrane material, kN/m2
specimen, apply a filter-paper strip correction to the computed = kPa (See Note 27)
values of the principal stress difference (deviator stress), if the F = force applied to stretch the membrane, N or kN,
error in principal stress difference (deviator stress) due to the L = unstretched length of the membrane, mm or cm,
strength of the filter-paper strips exceeds 5 %. DL = change in length of the membrane due to the force,
(1) For values of axial strain above 2 %, use the following F, mm or cm, and
equation to compute the correction: Am = area of the membrane = 2 tm Ws, mm2 or cm.2
D~s1 2 s3!fp 5 Kfp Pfp / Ac (10) where:
tm = thickness of the membrane, mm or cm, and
where:
Ws = width of circumferential strip of membrane, 15 mm
D(s1 − s3)fp = filter-paper correction to be subtracted
(0.5 in.).
from the measured principal stress differ-
ence (deviator stress), kN/m2 = kPa, NOTE 27—A typical value of Em for latex membranes is 1400 kPa (200
Kfp = load carried by filter-paper strips per unit lbf/in.).
length of perimeter covered by filter-paper, NOTE 28—The corrections for filter-paper strips and membranes are
kN/mm or kN/m (See Note 26), based on simplified assumptions concerning their behavior during shear.
Pfp = perimeter covered by filter-paper, mm or Their actual behavior is complex, and there is not a consensus on more
m, and exact corrections.
Ac = cross-sectional area of specimen after con- 10.4.3.3 Corrected Principal Stress Difference—This value
solidation, cm2 or m.2 is as follows:
(2) For values of axial strain of 2 % or less, use the P
following equation to compute the correction: ~s1 – s3!c 5 A – ~s1 – s3!ƒp – ~s1 – s3!m (14)
D~s1 2 s3!fp 5 50´1KfpPfp / Ac (11)
where:
where: (s1– s3)c = corrected principal stress difference or devia-
50 = limiting axial strain decimal format, and tor stress, kN/m2= kPa,

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 D4767 – 11
10.4.4 Calculate the effective minor principal stress, s38 for 11. Report: Test Data Sheet(s)/Form(s)
a given applied axial load as follows: 11.1 The methodology used to specify how data are re-
s83 5 s3 2 Du (15) corded on the data sheet(s)/form(s), as given below, is covered
in 1.5.1.
where: 11.2 Record as a minimum the following general informa-
s38 = effective minor principal stress at the given axial tion (data):
load, kPa, 11.2.1 Identification data and visual description of speci-
s3 = minor principal stress at the given axial load, kPa,
men, including soil classification and whether the specimen is
and
intact, reconstituted, or otherwise prepared,
Du = induced pore-water pressure at the given axial load
11.2.2 Values of plastic limit and liquid limit, if determined
(total pore-water pressure minus the total back pres-
in accordance with Test Method D4318,
sure), kPa.
11.2.3 Value of specific gravity of solids and notation if the
10.5 Principal Stress Difference (Deviator Stress) and In-
value was determined in accordance with Test Method D854 or
duced Pore-Water Pressure versus Strain Curves—Prepare
assumed,
graphs showing relationships between principal stress differ-
11.2.4 Particle-size analysis, if determined, in accordance
ence (deviator stress) and induced pore-water pressure with
with Test Method D422,
axial strain, plotting deviator stress and induced pore-water
11.2.5 Initial specimen dry unit weight, void ratio, water
pressure as ordinates and axial strain as abscissa. Select the
content, and percent saturation, (specify if the water content
principal stress difference (deviator stress) and axial strain at
specimen was obtained from cuttings or the entire specimen),
failure in accordance with 3.2.3.
10.6 p8 − q Diagram— Prepare a graph showing the rela- NOTE 29—The specific gravity determined in accordance with Test
tionship between p8 and q, plotting q as ordinate and p8 as Method D854 is required for calculation of the saturation. An assumed
abscissa using the same scale. The values of p8 and q for a specific gravity may be used provided it is noted in the test report that an
assumed value was used.
given axial load may be computed as follows:
~~s1 2 s3!c 1 2s83! ~s81 1 s83!
11.2.6 Initial height and diameter of specimen,
p8 5 2 5 2 (16) 11.2.7 Method followed for specimen saturation (that is, dry
or wet method),
~s1 2 s3!c
11.2.8 Total back pressure,
q5 2 (17) 11.2.9 The pore pressure Parameter B at the end of satura-
tion,
where: 11.2.10 Effective consolidation stress,
(s1 − s3)c = corrected principal stress difference (deviator 11.2.11 Time to 50 % primary consolidation,
stress), kPa, and 11.2.12 Specimen dry unit weight, void ratio, water content,
s83 = effective minor principal stress, kPa. and percent saturation after consolidation,
10.7 Determine the major and minor principal stresses at 11.2.13 Specimen cross-sectional area after consolidation
failure based on total stresses, s1f and s3f respectively, and on and method used for determination,
effective stresses, s81f and s83f respectively, as follows: 11.2.14 Failure criterion used,
s3f 5 effective consolidation stress, (18) 11.2.15 The value of the principal stress difference (deviator
s1f 5 ~s1 2 s3!cf 1 s3f, (19) stress) at failure and the values of the effective minor and major
8 principal stresses at failure, (indicate when values have been
s3f 5 s3f 2 Duf , and (20)
corrected for effects due to membrane or filter strips, or both),
8 8
s1f 5 ~s1 2 s3!cf 1 s3f (21) 11.2.16 Axial strain at failure, percent,
where Duf is the induced pore-water pressure at failure. 11.2.17 Rate of strain, percent per minute,
10.8 Mohr Stress Circles—If desired, construct Mohr stress 11.2.18 Principal stress difference (deviator stress) and in-
circles at failure based on total and effective stresses on an duced pore-water pressure versus axial strain curves as de-
arithmetic plot with shear stress as ordinate and normal stress scribed in 10.5,
as abscissa using the same scales. See Fig. 4. The circle based 11.2.19 The p8 − q diagram as described in 10.6,
on total stresses is drawn with a radius of one half the principal 11.2.20 Mohr stress circles based on total and effective
stress difference (deviator stress) at failure with its center at a stresses, (optional),
value equal to one half the sum of the major and minor total 11.2.21 Slope of angle of the failure surface (optional),
principal stresses. The Mohr stress circle based on effective 11.2.22 Failure sketch or photograph of the specimen, and
stresses is drawn in a similar manner except that its center is at 11.2.23 Remarks and notations regarding any unusual con-
a value equal to one half the sum of the major and minor ditions such as slickensides, stratification, shells, pebbles,
effective principal stresses. roots, and so forth, or other information necessary to properly

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 D4767 – 11

FIG. 4 Construction of Mohr Stress Circle

interpret the results obtained, including any departures from 12.2 Bias—There is no accepted reference value for this test
the procedure outlined. method, therefore, bias cannot be determined.
12. Precision and Bias
13. Keywords
12.1 Precision—Test data on precision is not presented due
to the nature of the soil materials tested by this procedure. It is 13.1 back pressure saturation; cohesive soil; consolidated
either not feasible or too costly at this time to have ten or more undrained strength; strain-controlled loading; stress-strain re-
laboratories participate in a round-robin testing program. lationships; total and effective stresses
Subcommittee D18.05 is seeking any data from users of this
test method that might be used to make a limited statement on
precision.

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 D4767 – 11
SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Comittee D18 has identified the location of selected changes to this test method since the last issue, D4767–04,
that may impact the use of this test method. (Approved January 15, 2011)

(1) Changed the terms “undisturbed” and “compacted” to (3) Included the significant digits needed for measurements.
“intact” and “reconstituted,” respectively. (4) Added units to the definitions of symbols in equations.
(2) Removed references to antiquated equipment, although still
allowed.

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