What is a soil sieve test

Soil sieve test is a commonly used soil physical property testing method.The used to determine the size distribution and particle size composition of soil particles. Through the sieving test, the particle content of different particle sizes in the soil can be understood, thereby revealing the particle composition, pore structure and engineering properties of the soil. Soil sieve test is widely used in soil scientific research, farmland soil evaluation and soil engineering design.

The principle of soil sieve test is based on size separation of particles. Tests typically use a set of standard sieves with progressively smaller pore sizes to classify soil particles by size. Commonly used screen apertures include 2mm, 1mm, 0.5mm, 0.25mm, etc. During the test, the soil sample to be tested is put into the screening device, and the soil particles are sieved on the sieve through mechanical vibration, and particles of different sizes are separated onto different sieves.

The steps for soil sieve test are as follows:

Prepare soil samples: Obtain soil samples from the field or laboratory and perform necessary sample processing, such as removing impurities and organic matter.

Prepare the screening unit: Select the appropriate screen combination and install the screens on the screening unit. Make sure there are no holes and gaps between the screens.

Weigh the soil sample: According to the test requirements, weigh a soil sample of a certain mass and record the mass.

Perform screening: Pour the weighed soil sample into the screening device, cover the device, and start the vibration device for screening. The screening time can be adjusted as needed.

Weigh the screened soil particles: After screening, collect the soil particles on each screen and weigh them. Record the particle mass on each screen.

Calculate particle distribution: Based on the particle mass on each screen, calculate the percentage and cumulative percentage of soil particles. Particle distribution curves are drawn to reflect the size distribution and particle size composition of soil particles.

Soil sieve test has a wide range of applications. It can be used for farmland soil evaluation to understand soil fertility and permeability. In addition, soil sieve test can also be used in soil engineering design to evaluate soil stability and bearing capacity. In soil science research, screening tests can help researchers understand the physical properties, particle composition and water retention capacity of soil, providing scientific basis for soil improvement and land use.