LIQUID LIMIT PROCEDURE

The Liquid Limit (LL) Procedure is a crucial geotechnical examination

employed to determine a fundamental property of fine-grained soils, notably clay.
This parameter signifies the moisture content at which a soil makes a transition from a
plastic, malleable state to a more fluid-like, flowable state when subjected to
controlled forces. The procedure adheres to a well-defined set of steps to ensure
accurate and dependable outcomes.

Initiate the procedure by accurately measuring 250 grams of air-dried soil that
has undergone meticulous sieving through a 425mm mesh. Subsequently, place this
quantified sample into a designated evaporating dish. Gradually introduce distilled
water, ensuring a gradual and uniform consolidation until the resultant paste attains
homogeneity. It is imperative to note that the paste's rheological profile should
necessitate the application of 30 to 35 drops from a standard cup for the definitive
closure of the prescribed groove, spanning an adequate length.

Upon achieving the desired consistency, transfer a judiciously apportioned

portion of the paste into the receptacle of the liquid limit device. With deliberate
finesse, employ a spatula to evenly disseminate the paste. Trim the extraneous
material to a uniform depth of 1cm at the locus of maximal thickness, directing any
superfluous soil back into the originating dish.

With detailed precision, engage the grooving tool to execute a sharply defined
incision along the central axis of the soil pat placed within the cup. This operation
must adhere rigorously to predetermined geometrical parameters, namely, an aperture
of 11mm at its zenith, tapering to 2mm at its nadir, and attaining a depth of 8mm.

Systematically raise and subsequently release the cup, rotating the crank at an
unwavering cadence of two revolutions per second. This cyclical action ought to
persist until the two contiguous facets of the soil cake interface, allowing for a flow
extension of approximately 13mm. The numerical outcome of this cyclic action is
designated as 'N'. Post the conclusion of the groove closure endeavor, extract a
representative fractional of soil from the cup for ensuing quantification of moisture
content.
 To substantiate precision and sustain findings, it is necessary to replicate the
experiment across a range of moisture contents. This necessitates a minimum of four
additional trials, encapsulating blow quantities ranging from 10 to 40. This
methodical approach endeavors to furnish a comprehensive description of the soil's
liquid limit behavior, thereby affording a solid foundation for subsequent engineering
assessments.