Small-Scale Testing of Frequency-Dependent Compaction of Sand Using a Vertically Vibrating Plate

Vibratory rollers generally operate at a fixed vibration frequency. It is hypothesized that the compaction of soil could be made more efficient if the frequency could be adapted to specific project conditions. In order to study the applicability to surface compaction, the frequency dependence of compacting dry sand with a vertically vibrating plate was investigated experimentally in 85 small-scale tests. Tests were performed in a test box simulating the free-field condition and with concrete underlying the sand bed. The results show that there is a distinct frequency dependence, implying a significantly improved compaction effect close to the compactor soil resonant frequency. It is suggested that particle velocity is the governing amplitude parameter for vibratory soil compaction, rather than displacement or acceleration. As the soil is compacted, it is also displaced, resulting in surface heave. A larger vibration amplitude implies greater displacement relative to the compacted volume. It was also observed that the compaction and strain-dependent reduction of soil stiffness are closely related.