ABSTRACT
There are several concepts and theories to explain the compaction process of soil and unit weight–moisture content relationships. There are two general types of approaches: to explain the relationship between unit weight versus moisture content of soil and to explain the mechanism of compaction processes. This chapter discusses details of both field and laboratory compaction performance with emphasis on mechanisms, processes, factors affecting test results, and data interpretations. It also discusses several commonly used deep compaction techniques such as vibrocompaction, dynamic compaction, and blasting. For deep compaction and special cases, the following equipment is used: vibrator beam, dynamic consolidation, blasting, and electro-potential process. The chapter explores the mechanisms of dry-side and wet-side under the title of compaction theories and mechanisms. The behavior of soil in dry-side and wet-side stages is different; particle-energy-field theory may help to clarify moisture-unit weight relationship.
