A revised and updated edition of the essential working manual for all those involved in geotechnical laboratory testing.

This volume, the first in a set of three, is a vital working manual which covers the basic tests for the classification and compaction characteristics of engineering soils. It will therefore be an essential practical handbook for all engaged on the testing of soils in a laboratory for building and civil engineering purposes.

Based on the author's experience over many years managing large soil testing laboratories, particular emphasis has been placed on ensuring that procedures are fully understood. Each test procedure has therefore been broken down into simple stages with each step being clearly described. The use of flow diagrams and the setting out of test data and calculations will be of great benefit, especially for the newcomer to soil testing.

The book is complemented with many numerical examples which illustrate the methods of calculation and graphical presentations of typical results. The reporting of test data is also explained. Vital information on good techniques, laboratory safety, the calibration of measuring instruments, essential checks on equipment, and laboratory accreditation are all included.

A basic knowledge of mathematics, physics and chemistry is assumed but some of the fundamental principles that are essential in soil testing are explained where appropriate.

Scope and general requirements; Moisture content and index tests; Density and particle density; Particle size; Chemical tests; Compaction tests; Description of soils; Appendix: Units, nomenclature and laboratory equipment; Index

Professionals, academics and students in geotechnical engineering; consulting engineers; geotechnical laboratory supervisors and technicians will find this book of great value.

'This splendid manual belongs in every university library patronized by geoscientists and engineers.’ Environmental & Engineering Geoscience

‘This well-known three-volume series of books has formed an indispensable part of the equipment in any engineering or geological soils testing laboratory since its launch… …is truly a working manual. …this remains the definitive text on the subject and a vital addition to BS1377 Parts 1-4…’ Quarterly Journal of Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology

'Since K H Head first produced his manuals on soil laboratory testing in 1980 they have been an essential reference in all good soil testing laboratories. ...the author has an extensive understanding of the details of soil testing and vast experience to draw upon. ...This book should be an essential reference for all engineers and technicians who carry out soil testing and also for those engineers who just use the test results for use in analysis and design. I thoroughly recommend it to anyone who has not come across previous editions. ...It is very clear in its descriptions of the tests and easy to read'. Australian Geomechanics

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