Materials Flashcards
(30 cards)
What is the purpose of a soil classification system?
To categorize soils based on their engineering behavior and properties.
Name the two common soil classification systems.
Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) and AASHTO.
What does ‘GP’ mean in USCS?
Well-graded gravel.
What information is typically found on a boring log?
Soil layers, depths, N-values, groundwater table, and sample descriptions.
What does a high N-value on a boring log indicate?
Dense or hard soil.
What tool is used to retrieve soil samples during boring?
Split-spoon sampler.
What is soil permeability?
The ability of soil to transmit water.
What test is used to determine unconfined compressive strength of cohesive soils?
Unconfined compression test.
What are the components of the soil phase diagram?
Solids, water, and air.
What is the void ratio?
The ratio of volume of voids to volume of solids.
What is the formula for degree of saturation?
S = (Vw / Vv) × 100%.
What is the typical cohesion value for sand?
Approximately zero; sand is cohesionless.
What is the typical compressive strength of structural concrete?
Around 3,000 to 5,000 psi.
What is the water-cement ratio important for?
Determining the strength and durability of concrete.
What is slump test used for?
To measure the workability of fresh concrete.
What does rebar do in reinforced concrete?
Provides tensile strength.
What causes segregation in concrete?
Improper mix proportions or handling, leading to separation of aggregates and paste.
What is air entrainment in concrete?
Intentional incorporation of small air bubbles to improve freeze-thaw resistance.
Name three common piping materials used in civil engineering.
PVC, ductile iron, and HDPE.
What is an advantage of HDPE piping?
High flexibility and resistance to corrosion.
What is a disadvantage of ductile iron pipe?
Susceptibility to corrosion without proper lining or coating.
What is SDR in piping?
Standard Dimension Ratio, a measure of pipe wall thickness.
What is the main use of PVC piping?
Potable water and sewer systems.
Why is copper piping less common in large civil projects?
High cost and susceptibility to theft.
