Non nuclear In-situ density and moisture testing

[geoenginner]

Does anybody know, or have used, the "Moisture+Density Indicator" from "Durham Geo Slope Indicator"?

Do the non nuclear methods for in-situ density and moisture determination, really work? Is this a proven technology?

Any thoughts?

[mikebg]

Principle of operation

Principle of Operation:
Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) is used to measure
the travel time of an electromagnetic step pulse produced
by the TDR pulse generator through four soil spikes in the
ground. The voltage signal is analyzed by a PDA running
specially developed algorithms to determine apparent dielectric
constant and bulk electrical conductivity of the soil.
The software uses a set of equations to relate these two
properties to water content and density which are displayed
on the screen.
Two field testing methods (described in further details on
page 3) meet ASTM Standard D 6780:
• A One-Step Method—the usual method—which is simpler
and quicker in the field than the Two-Step Method.
• A Two-Step Method which is used when immediate and
approximate results are desired, without waiting for compaction
tests, or when salinity is a concern.
Note: For applying either Method, soil tests in the laboratory
are recommended for the purpose of obtaining soil-specific
constants. However, reasonable test results may be
obtained with assigned values and further refined subsequently
with laboratory tests.

[geoenginner]

mikebg, thanks for the information.

Can I get your personal opinion on this type of equipment? If you needed to choose between a nuclear gauge and a non nuclear moisture and density indicator, which one would you choose? (Based on more accurate results)

[mikebg]

SEARCH WEB!

Search Wikipedia for "Water content" and then follow the link for "Soil Moisture Sensors". You should ask
www.wiki.answers.com/help/asking_questions
Yours Mike-BG