Optimization of Density and Moisture Content Measurements by Nuclear Methods
Optimization of Density and Moisture Content Measurements by Nuclear Methods

Author: Robin P. Gardner

Publisher: Highway Research Board

Published: 1971

Total Pages: 100

ISBN-13:

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The objective was to minimize the errors identified with measurement of density and moisture content of soils using nuclear gauges. To provide a reasonable basis for optimization, all identified errors were combined to yield a single criterion, the quality factor, which can be used to evaluate the over-all performance of a nuclear density gauge. Research aimed at minimizing moisture content measurement errors involved using the Monte Carlo or random walk method to simulate gauge response, checking the results of the simulation against experimental studies, and attempting to generalize the Monte Carlo results.

Density and Moisture Content Measurements by Nuclear Methods
Density and Moisture Content Measurements by Nuclear Methods

Author: Robin P. Gardner

Publisher:

Published: 1967

Total Pages: 56

ISBN-13:

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Sources of error that have been identified on the gamma-ray soil density gauge are: (1) sensitivity to local density variations, especially at the soil surface, (2) sensitivity to soil composition, and (3) inaccurate calibration techniques. An attempt was made to solve these problems by developing for each gauge calibration models that enable stable and homogenous non-soil standards to be used for calibration. Calibration standards and calibration models for each gauge were found and tested. In the process of developing and testing the new nuclear gauge calibration model, the dual-gauge principal of compensating these gauges for variations in soil composition was discovered. The air-gap method of using this principal is explained and was optimized by using the calibration model developed in the current study.