Void Ratio of Soil Sample Calculator

Void Ratio Formula:

\[ e = \frac{V_{void}}{V_s} \]

Void Ratio:

Percentage:

1. What is Void Ratio of Soil?

Definition: Void ratio (e) is a dimensionless quantity that represents the ratio of the volume of voids to the volume of solids in a soil sample.

Purpose: It's a fundamental property used in geotechnical engineering to describe soil compaction and porosity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ e = \frac{V_{void}}{V_s} \]

Where:

\( e \) — Void ratio (dimensionless)
\( V_{void} \) — Volume of voids in the soil (m³)
\( V_s \) — Volume of solids in the soil (m³)

Explanation: The void ratio is calculated by dividing the volume of empty spaces (voids) by the volume of solid particles in the soil.

3. Importance of Void Ratio

Details: Void ratio helps determine soil compressibility, permeability, and shear strength. Higher void ratios indicate looser soil with more voids.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the volume of voids and volume of solids in cubic meters. Both values must be greater than 0. The result shows both the ratio and percentage.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical void ratio range?
A: For natural soils, e typically ranges from 0.3 (dense) to 1.0 (loose). Clays may have e > 1.0 when very soft.

Q2: How does void ratio differ from porosity?
A: Void ratio compares void volume to solids volume, while porosity compares void volume to total volume.

Q3: What does the ±5% represent?
A: This indicates the typical measurement uncertainty range for void ratio calculations.

Q4: How do I measure volumes in the field?
A: Vvoid is often measured by water displacement, while Vs is calculated from dry weight and specific gravity.

Q5: Why is void ratio important in construction?
A: It affects settlement, bearing capacity, and drainage characteristics of soil foundations.