Consolidation Test
The Consolidation Test is a method used in soil mechanics to evaluate how soil compresses over time when subjected to a load. This test helps engineers understand the soil's ability to support structures by measuring the rate and amount of settlement that occurs as water is expelled from the soil's pores.
During the test, a soil sample is placed in a device called a consolidometer. The sample is subjected to a controlled load, and the change in height is measured over time. This data allows engineers to predict how the soil will behave under real-world conditions, ensuring safe and effective construction practices.