Question

In determining effectual stress parameters of a soil sample, which test is good, consolidated undrained analysis or consolidated drained analysis?

Answer

Effective stress parameters of a soil sample are able to be obtained from both consolidated undrained analysis and consolidated drained analysis. Though, consolidated undrained analysis is usually selected because of following reasons-

(i) Time occupied for consolidated undrained test is shorter than that of consolidated drained test. It is as consolidated drained analysis requires full dissipation of excess pore water pressure of soil throughout testing and it takes long time at what time soils of low permeability are experienced.

(ii) Useful information be capable of be obtained from stress path of consolidated undrained test.

(iii)Failure happens in worse stress level while compared with consolidated drained test.