VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

6 FIELDMOISTUREANDDENSITYTESTING
WITHTHENUCLEARGAUGE

LEARNINGOUTCOMES

Understandthecomponentsofthenucleargaugeandhowitisusedtomeasuremoistureanddensity
Understandtheproceduresforevaluatingmoistureanddensityusingthedirecttransmissionmethod
Understandthebasicregulationsthatgovernthestorage,transport,anduseofthenucleargauge
Understandbasicmaintenancetechniquesandproceduresforemergencyresponse

INTRODUCTION

Afterplacement andcompactionoftheembankmentmaterialbythecontractor,theinspectorthenconductsa
fielddensitytestandafieldmoisturecontenttestonthelift.Theresultsofthesefieldtestsarecomparedtothe
target values (see Chapter 5) to determine if the contractor has met specificationsfor density and moisture
contentofthatlift.

Section 303.04(h) and 305.03(a) of 2007 Road and Bridge Specifications stipulates that field density
determinationsaretobeperformedinaccordancewiththefollowingAASHTOtests:

T191DensityofSoilinPlacebytheSandConeMethod
T310DensityofSoilinPlacebytheNuclearGauge

SOILDENSITYTESTINGFLOWCHART

SettingTargetValues

LaboratoryProctor
OnePointProctor RunningFieldTests

SpeedyMoistureTest
DryingMoistureTest
SandConeDensityTest
NuclearGaugeDensityTest
IsSpecificationMet?

Moisture(Yes/No)
Density(Yes/No)

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TROXLER3440NUCLEARGAUGE(FORSOILSANDAGGREGATEMATERIAL)

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

DETERMININGFIELDDENSITY&MOISTURECONTENTWITHTHENUCLEARGAUGE

The NuclearMoistureDensity device (or Nuclear Gauge)is specificallydesignedto measurethe moistureand

densityofsoils,aggregates,cement,andlimetreatedmaterials,andtomeasurethedensityofasphaltconcrete.It
offerstheInspectorandContractoramethodofobtainingfast,accurateandinplacemeasurementofdensities
andmoisture. With suitable calibrations, the devicegivesresultswhichare comparableto thosegiven by the
SandConeorVolumeMeterTest.

Thedeviceusesasmallradioactivesourcewhichsendsradiationthroughthematerialbeingtested,givingdata
whichcanbecorrelatedtodensityand/ormoisture.Whilenoradiationhazardisimposedontheoperatorwhen
followingthenormalproceduresofuse,apotentialhazarddoesexistif improperly used. Threewaysto limit
exposuretoradiationaretime,distance,andshielding.

Before operating a nuclear gauge a person must pass a Nuclear Safety course and be issued a
thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) badge. The badge measures exposure to radiation and is to be worn
whenever operating a nuclear gauge. The TLD is to be stored at least 10 feet from the gauge. Two gauges
shouldnotbeoperatedwithin33feetofoneanother. Incaseofanaccident,maintaina20footradiusaround
theaccidentsite.

COMPONENTSOFTHENUCLEARGAUGE

Asmallradioactivesourceislocatedinthetipofthestainlesssteelrodwhichisprimarilyusedfordensitytesting,
whereasanothersourceislocatedinsidethedevicewhichisusedspecificallyfortakingmoisture determinations
simultaneously. The probe rod is capable of being moved to the various desireddepths,as shownonthe
followingpages.Thepositionsarestampedontheguiderodforeasydeterminationoftheproperdepths.

The 3440 Nuclear Gauge providesthree different count times to be used for taking readings.The 15 second
setting is recommended to be used only in the roller pattern test method (Backscatter Method). The one
minute setting is used for all embankment and subgrade materials.The four minute setting isgenerallyused
forcalibration.

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TROXLER3440NUCLEARGAUGE(HANDLEPOSITIONS)

TROXLER3440NUCLEARGAUGE(BASEANDDISPLAYSCREEN)

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

NUCLEARGAUGETHEORYOFOPERATIONS

The Nuclear Gauge is specificallydesignedto measurethe moisturecontent and density of soils, aggregates,
cementandlimetreatedmaterials,andtomeasurethedensityof BituminousConcrete.It offers the inspector
a methodof obtaining fast, accurate,inplacemeasurementofdensityandmoisture.Withsuitablelaboratory
calibrations, and proper field operation ofthe gauge, the devicegivesresultswhichare comparableto those
givenbythesandconeorvolumemetertests.

Thetipofthesourcerodcontainsasmallradioactivesource(Cesium137)whichemitsgammarays. Detectors
in the base ofthe gauge measurethis radiationandcalculatethe density ofthematerial. Thegaugehastwo
modestomeasuredensity:thedirecttransmissionmodeandbackscattermode.

IntheDirectTransmissionmode,thesourcerodisinsertedintothematerialtobetestedtothedesireddepth
of test. The 6 inch depth is the most recommended depth for testing densities and moisture content
simultaneously in soils used in backfills, embankments and subgrade.The4inchdepthisusedforbackfilling
aroundpipeandabutmentswherehandtampingandpneumatictampingisused. The8inchdepthisonlyused
whenspecifiedonthecontract.

Inthe backscatter mode,the gauge is placedonthe material to be tested andthe sourcerodislockedinthe

first position below the SAFE position. Since the rod is flush with the bottom of the gauge and no hole is
required for the rod, the backscatter mode is used only in conjunction with the roller pattern/control strip
methodfor testing densitieson asphalt concreteand allaggregatematerialsuchasbase,subbase,andselect
materials.

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

Thegaugehasaninternalradioactivesource (Americium241: Beryllium) thatemitsneutrons which measure

the hydrogen to determine moisture content.Any position below the SAFEpositioncanbeusedtodetermine
moisturecontent.

Problems may arise when testing materials containing mica, boron, cadmium and chlorine or when testing
heavyclaysandorganicmaterial.ItispermissibletousetheSpeedyMoistureTestertoverifynuclearresults.

Like the conventionaltest, the operator mustcomparethe resultsfromthe nucleargauge to theonepoint

proctororlaboratoryproctor. Thenucleardensityiscomparedtothemaximumdrydensitytocalculatethe
percentdensityandthemoisturecontentfromthenucleargaugeiscomparedtotheoptimummoisturelimits.

PRETESTWARMUPPROCEDURESFORTHE3440NUCLEARGAUGE
The standardcountshouldbe taken daily before any testing is doneto checkgauge operation and allow the
gauge to compensate for natural source decay. The 3440 gauge should be turned on and allowedto go
throughtheselftest(RAMTEST)beforebeginning. (NOTE:Itisveryimportantthatthe RAMTESTdisplayhas
endedbefore proceeding. During the test, the screenwill displaya countdown from 300 seconds and then
displayREADYonthescreen.)

Place the reference block on a flat surface with a minimum density of 100 lbs/ft3 at least 10 feet from any
structure and 33 feet from any otherradioactivesource,inthesamemanneraswhenusinganyothermodel
gauge. Placethegaugeonthereferenceblock,makingsurethatitisseatedflatandwithintheraisededges,with
therightsideofthegaugepushedfirmlyagainstthemetalplateontheblock. PressSTANDARDonthefinger
keypadforthedisplay:

StandardCount
DS= PressYES
IstheGaugeSTD.Block&
MS= SourceinSAFEPos?
Takenewcount?
PressYES

DS=.%P
TakingStandardCount MS=.%P
secondsremaining. Doyouwanttousethe
newSTD?

PressYEStoenterthenewcountsintomemory. NOTE:IfthescreendisplaysanFinsteadofa%P,first
look to see if you are too close to any structure or another gauge. Then press NO and take a new set of
counts.Ifthesecondsetfails,pressYESandtakethree(3)newstandardcounts.Refer tothegaugemanual
formoredetailedinstructions.

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

NUCLEARTESTINGPROCEDURESFOREMBANKMENTS

A constructionproject presentsvarious situationsinwhich compactiondataisrequired. Depending upon the

materialtobetested,therearedifferenttestingmethodsthatcanbeusedtoobtainthedata.Onemethodis
used fortestingembankmentand subgrades;whileanother methodis usedforaggregate base, subbase, and
selectmaterialandasphaltconcrete.

When performing a test, some preliminary test information must be obtained by conducting aOnePoint
Proctor.ThistestestablishesthemaximumobtainableDryDensityandOptimumMoistureContentforparticular
embankmentmaterial.Thistestshouldberunwhilethecontractoriscompactingthesoillayertobetested.

Ifanappreciableamountof+4Material(rockfragment,gravel,shale,etc.)isnoticedinthesoillayer,refer to
VTM1andVTM12,forpropertestinginstructions.Contact theQuarryor theDistrictMaterialsDivisionfor
thespecificgravityofthe+4materialwhenencountered.

Embankment/SubgradeTestingProcedures(DirectTransmissionMethod)

1) Thetestsitemustbeproperlyselectedandprepared. Chooseatestsiteonthecompactedlayerof soil

(orsoilmixture)representedbythe OnePointProctorTest. StandardCountsshouldhavebeentaken
inthemorningandaregoodforthatentiredaysuse.

2) Turnthegaugeontoallowthedevicetowarmupbeforetestingistobegin.Thisshouldbedonewhile
thetestsiteisbeingpreparedfortesting.

3) Toobtainaccurateresults,thenucleardevicemustbeseatedflushagainstthecompactedlayerofsoil.
Level an area to place the device, either with a shovel or the scraper plate. If significant voids
remainin the area where the deviceis to be placed,the voidsshouldbe filledwith smallamountsof
soil common to the site, and lightly tamped in place with the scraper plate and excess material
removed.

4) TotakeaDirectTransmissionDensityTestandaMoistureTestfollowtheprocedurelistedbelow.

a) Placethedrillrodguideonthetestsiteandinsertthedrillrodintotheguidesleeve.Placeone
footonthedrillrodguidetokeepitinposition.Drivetherod2inchesdeeperthanthedepthof
test.

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

b) Carefullyremovetherodanddrillrodguide.Placethegaugeovertheholeandextendthesource
rodintotheholetotherequiredtestdepth.Thisshouldbedoneinamannerwhichpreventsthe
sourcerodfromdisturbingthesidesofthehole.

c) Makesurethatthegaugeisrestingflushonthesurfaceandthatthesourcerodisinthelocked
position. Gentlypullon thegaugehousingsothat theextended sourcerodwillbetightagainst
thehole.

d) Confirmthat the gauge is onandthenpress TIME on the keypad and select one minute. The
displaypanelwillreadCOUNTTIME1min.andthen returntoREADY. PressingSHIFT8 on
thekeypadwillallowyoutoselecttheSoilsModeandthedisplaywillreadREADY.

e) To begin the test, press START/ENTER. After the gauge completes its count, the display will
show%PR(PercentCompaction),DD(Dry Density),WD(WetDensity),M(Moisture)and
%M (Moisture Content). Record these figures on the Fo r m TL124 (Report on Nuclear
EmbankmentDensities).

f) Now that the direct transmission and moisture tests are completed, gently retract handle to

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

the safe position, turn the power switch off, return the device to the field carrying case, and
finishcompletingtheFormTL124(ReportonNuclearEmbankmentDensities).

TakingtestsintheBackscatterPosition(AsphaltandAggregateOnly):

5) If for any reason a backscatterdensity and moisture test is required by the Materials Engineer or
representativeoftheMaterialsDivision,followtheprocedurelistedbelow:

a) Place the device on the prepared test site and lower the handle to the BackscatterPosition.

b) WiththeTIMEseton1minute,presstheSTART/ENTERbutton.

c) WhenthedisplayappearsrecordtheresultsontheFormTL124.

OnlyusethismethodoftestwheninstructedbyDistrictMaterialsTechnicians.

NOTE:When making density tests in close places, such as trenches and sidewalls,backgroundeffects
willbeencounteredthatwillgiveincorrectdensitymoisturereadings.Ifthisoccurs,seeinstructionsfor
backgroundcalculationsonPage618ofthischapter.

FillingouttheFormTL124:

1) Fill in LineE (MaximumDry Density) whichis transferredfromLineG of the OnePoint Proctor (Form
TL125).

2) FillinLineF(OptimumMoisture)whichistransferredfromLineHoftheOnePointProctor(FormTL125).

3) FillinLinesAthroughDandLineJusingtheinformationonthe3440NuclearGaugeDisplayScreen.

4) FillinLineK(PercentMinimumDensityRequired). DensityRequirementsarelocatedinAppendixC.

5) CalculatethePercentDensity(LineJ)bydividingtheDryDensity(LineC)bytheMaximumDryDensity
(LineE)andthenmultiplyingby100.

Lines G, H & I are only used when +4 Material has been encountered. When 10% or more +4 Materialis
encountered, the Dry Density (Line C) is divided by the Corrected Maximum Dry Density (Line H) and then
multipliedby100toobtainedthepercentcompaction. (SeeLineJ.)

Alsowhen10%ormore+4Materialisencountered,itisnecessarytodoamoisturecorrectionwhichwillbe
enteredonLineI. ThiswillbediscussedinChapter7.

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

FormTL124(Rev.07/15)
VIRGINIADEPARTMENTOFTRANPORTATION
MATERIALSDIVISION
REPORTONNUCLEAREMBANKMENTDENSITIES(UNITMASSES)

ReportNo. 121A1 Date 06/22/2015 SheetNo. 1 of 1
RouteNo. 17 County Campbell
ProjectNo. 0017015104,C503
FHWANo. None
Testingfor Embankment
ModelNo. 3440 SerialNo. 23456 CalibrationDate 02/10/2015


STANDARDCOUNTDATA
Density 2830 Moisture 701

TestNo. 1 2 3 4
Location Stationft.(m) 585+00
of Ref.tocenterlineft.(m) at.C/L
Test Elevation +8/4
CompactionDepthofLiftin.(mm) 6
MethodofCompaction Sheepsfoot
A. WetDensity(lbs/ft3),WetUnitMass(kg/m3) =
3 3
B. MoistureUnitMass(lbs/ft orkg/m ) =

C. DryDensity(lbs/ft3),DryUnitMass(kg/m3)(AB) =

D. MoistureContent(BC)x100 =
3 3
OnePointProctorResults
E. MaximumDryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )
= 124.2
Max.DryDensity(TL125LineG)
LabProctororOnePointProctor

10.7 OptimumMoisture(TL125LineH)
F. PercentOptimumMoisturefromLaborOnePointProctor =
8.612.8
G. PercentofPlus#4,(plus4.75mm) =
3 3
H. CorrectedMax.DryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m ) =

I. CorrectedOptimumMoisture =
3 3
J. PercentDryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )
=
(CE)x100or(CH)x100
K. PercentMinimumDensityRequired =

Comments:

BY:

TITLE:

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

FormTL124(Rev.07/15)
VIRGINIADEPARTMENTOFTRANPORTATION
MATERIALSDIVISION
REPORTONNUCLEAREMBANKMENTDENSITIES(UNITMASSES)

ReportNo. 121A1 Date 06/22/2015 SheetNo. 1 of 1
RouteNo. 17 County Campbell
ProjectNo. 0017015104,C503
FHWANo. None
Testingfor Embankment
ModelNo. 3440 SerialNo. 23456 CalibrationDate 02/10/2015


STANDARDCOUNTDATA
Density 2830 Moisture 701

TestNo. 1 2 3 4
Location Stationft.(m) 585+00
of Ref.tocenterlineft.(m) at.C/L
Test Elevation +8/4
CompactionDepthofLiftin.(mm) 6
NuclearGaugeDisplayPanel

MethodofCompaction Sheepsfoot
%PR=97.0%

3 3
A. WetDensity(lbs/ft ),WetUnitMass(kg/m ) = 133.3 DD=120.5
3 3 WD=133.3
B. MoistureUnitMass(lbs/ft orkg/m ) = 12.8
M=12.8M%=10.6
3 3
C. DryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )(AB) = 120.5

D. MoistureContent(BC)x100 = 10.6
3 3
E. MaximumDryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )
= 124.2
LabProctororOnePointProctor
10.7
F. PercentOptimumMoisturefromLaborOnePointProctor =
8.612.8
PercentDensity
G. PercentofPlus#4,(plus4.75mm)
=
ProvidedbyGauge(%PR=97.0%)
3 3
H. CorrectedMax.DryDensity(lbs/ft

),DryUnitMass(kg/m ) =
Or

I. CorrectedOptimumMoisture
ManuallyCalculate =

3 3 DensityRequirement
J. PercentDryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )
(LineC)(LineE)x100
= 97.0

(CE)x100or(CH)x100
(120.5124.2)x100=97.0% SeeAppendixC
K. PercentMinimumDensityRequired = 95.0

Comments:

BY:

TITLE:

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

DoestheMaterialmeetspecification?

Theactualdensityspecificationwillvarywiththeverticallocationofthematerialintheembankmentandwith
theamountof+4Materialwithinthefill(seebelow).

FinishedGrade

TopofEarthwork
PavementSection
(Subgrade)
(Asphalt&Aggregate)

SubgradeMaterial
6
(100%DensityRequired)

EmbankmentMaterial(OtherthanSubgrade)
(95%DensityRequired)

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

CORRECTINGFORHIGHMOISTUREREADINGS

As stated previously, theNuclearGaugeisspecificallydesignedtomeasurethemoisturecontent and

densityofsoils,aggregates,cementandlimetreatedmaterials.Thegaugehasaninternalradioactive
source(Americium241:Beryllium)anditusesthissourcetodeterminemoisturebyreleasingfastneutrons into
the compacted material. These fast neutrons are then slowed down, or thermalized, when they
interact with the nucleus of hydrogen, a key ingredient of the water molecule. However, some soils
(i.e. micaceous soils) contain highlevels of naturally bound hydrogen, which increases the
thermalization process. The gauge misinterprets this naturally bound hydrogen as excessive
moisturecontent.SucherrorsinmeasurementcanleadtoafalseDryDensityreading,whichinturn
may result in a false low or failing Percent Density value. When this situation arises, it is up to the
technician to correct the moisture and density reading using the following process and standard
calculations.

ExampleProblem:

Anucleartestconductedonahydrogenrichsoilhasproduced
false Moisture (M = 18.1, M% = 15.0) and Dry Density (DD = NuclearGaugeDisplayPanel

120.9) readings. These false readings in turn have prompted a %PR=93.5%
failingPercentDensityvalue(%PR=93.5%).

DD=120.9
3 WD=139.0
MaximumDryDensity=129.3lbs/ft

OptimumMoistureContent=9.2% M=18.1M%=15.0
OptimumMoistureRange(20%)=7.411.0%
MinimumDensityRequired=95.0%
SpeedyDialReading=8.9

ProceduralStepsforCorrectingtheMoistureandDryDensityReadings(FormTL124)

1) ConductaSpeedyMoistureTesttodeterminethecorrectMoistureContent(M%).

2) Adjust the Dry Density (Line C) by the dividing the original Wet Density (Line A) by the corrected
MoistureContent(M%)plus1.[DD=WD/(1+M%)]

3) AdjusttheMoistureUnitMass(LineB)bysubtractingthecorrectedDryDensityvaluefromtheoriginal
WetDensityvalue(LineA).[MM=WDDD]

4) Adjust the Percent Density (Line J) by dividing the corrected Dry Density value by the Maximum Dry
Densityvalue(LineE)andthenmultiplyingby100.[%PR=(DDMax.DD)x100]

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

FormTL124(Rev.07/15)
VIRGINIADEPARTMENTOFTRANPORTATION
CORRECTINGFORHIGHMOISTUREREADINGSUSINGTHESPEEDY
MATERIALSDIVISION
MOISTUREDEVICE
REPORTONNUCLEAREMBANKMENTDENSITIES(UNITMASSES)

ReportNo. 121A1 Date 06/22/2015 SheetNo. 1 of 1
RouteNo. 17 County Campbell
ProjectNo. 0017015104,C503
FHWANo. None
Testingfor Embankment
ModelNo. 3440 SerialNo. 23456 CalibrationDate 02/10/2015


STANDARDCOUNTDATA
Density 2830 Moisture 701

TestNo. 1 2 3 4
Location Stationft.(m) 585+00
of Ref.tocenterlineft.(m) at.C/L
Test Elevation +8/4
CompactionDepthofLiftin.(mm) 6
NuclearGaugeDisplayPanel

MethodofCompaction Sheepsfoot
%PR=93.5%

3 3
A. WetDensity(lbs/ft ),WetUnitMass(kg/m ) = 139.0 DD=120.9
MoistureContentissuspectedto
3beincorrectduetosoilproperties WD=139.0
B. MoistureUnitMass(lbs/ft orkg/m3) = 18.1
orconditions M=18.1M%=15.0
3 3
C. DryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )(AB) = 120.9

D. MoistureContent(BC)x100 = 15.0
3 3
E. MaximumDryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )
= 129.3
LabProctororOnePointProctor
9.2
F. PercentOptimumMoisturefromLaborOnePointProctor =
7.411.0
G. PercentofPlus#4,(plus4.75mm) =

H. CorrectedMax.DryDensity(lbs/ft3),DryUnitMass(kg/m3) =
FailingPercentDensityissuspected
I. CorrectedOptimumMoisture
tobeincorrectduetofalsehigh =
3 moisturereadings3
J. PercentDryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )
= 93.5
(CE)x100or(CH)x100
K. PercentMinimumDensityRequired = 95.0

Comments:

BY:

TITLE:

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

FormTL124(Rev.07/15)
VIRGINIADEPARTMENTOFTRANPORTATION
CORRECTINGFORHIGHMOISTUREREADINGSUSINGTHESPEEDY
MATERIALSDIVISION
MOISTUREDEVICE
REPORTONNUCLEAREMBANKMENTDENSITIES(UNITMASSES)

ReportNo. 121A1 Date 06/22/2015 SheetNo. 1 of 1
RouteNo. 17 County Campbell
ProjectNo. 0017015104,C503
FHWANo. None
Testingfor Embankment
ModelNo. 3440 SerialNo. 23456 CalibrationDate 02/10/2015


STANDARDCOUNTDATA
Density 2830 Moisture 701

TestNo. 1 2 3 4
Step3AdjustMoistureMass
Location Stationft.(m) 585+00
of MM=WDDDRef.tocenterlineft.(m) at.C/L

Test MM=139.0126.6 Elevation +8/4

3
CompactionDepthofLiftin.(mm) MM=12.4lbs/ft 6
MethodofCompaction Sheepsfoot
3 3
A. WetDensity(lbs/ft ),WetUnitMass(kg/m ) = 139.0
Step2AdjustDryDensity
B. MoistureUnitMass(lbs/ft3orkg/m 3
) = 18.1 12.4
3 DD=WD(1+M%)3
C. DryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m
)(AB) = 120.9 126.6
DD=139.0(1+0.098)
D. MoistureContent(BC)x100
3 = 15.0 9.8
DD=126.6lbs/ft
3 3
E. MaximumDryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )
= 129.3
LabProctororOnePointProctor
9.2
F. PercentOptimumMoisturefromLaborOnePointProcter =
Step1ConductaSpeedyMoistureTest 7.411.0
tocorrectMoistureContent
G. PercentofPlus#4,(plus4.75mm) =

H. CorrectedMax.DryDensity(lbs/ft3),DryUnitMass(kg/m3) =

I. CorrectedOptimumMoisture =
3 Step4CorrectPercentDensity
3
J. PercentDryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m
)
= 93.5 97.9
(CE)x100or(CH)x100 %PR=(DDMax.DD)x100

K. PercentMinimumDensityRequired
%PR=(126.6129.3)x100 = 95.0

%PR=97.9%
Comments:

BY:

TITLE:

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BACKGROUNDCALCULATIONSFORTRENCHANDSIDEWALLMOISTURETESTING

When a 3440 Nuclear Gauge is operated within 24 inches of a vertical structure the density and moisture
counts will be affected due to gamma photons and neutrons echoing off the walls of the structure. Itis
necessary to perform a trench offset when testing backfill material around pipe culverts, abutments, near a
building,etc.Thiscorrectionshouldbeperformedeachdayandwhentrenchwallconditions(distancefromwall,
moisturecontent,materialcomposition,etc.)vary.

Theproceduretodeterminethebackgroundeffectandapplythenecessarycorrectionisasfollows:

1) TakethedailystandardcountwiththegaugeontheStandardBlockoutsidethetrenchandrecordthe
densityandmoisturevalues.

2) PlacethegaugeontheStandardBlockinsidethetrenchinthetestingareaandpressOFFSETonthe
displaypanel and select No. 3 TRENCHOFF.The gauge will show Trench Offset Disabledand ask if
you want to use Trench Offset. Press YES. The gauge will show trench offset for moisture and
density and ask if you want to change. Press YES to perform a new offset and NO to use the
existingoffsetconstants.Ifyouselectedyes,thegaugewillpromptyoutopressSTARTfor1minute
Standard Counts in the trench. Make sure to take counts the same distance from the wall as the
anticipated test readings. The density and moisture trench offset constants will be calculated and
stored. Whenthegaugeisnottobeusedfortrenchmeasurements,disabletheoffset.

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

SELFREGULATIONS&THEVDOTLICENSE

VDOT has a MaterialsLicenseissued by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). The VDH is responsiblefor
ensuring the safety of people who work with radioactive byproduct materials and the security of such
materials. To control the risks associated with the use of nuclear byproduct materials, the VDH sets strict
health and safety standards for nuclear equipment, defines allowable limits for radiation exposure and
frequently conducts inspections of nuclear products and facilities. The VDH enforces the Code of Federal
Regulations ( C F R ) andallapplicablestaterequirementsgoverningtheuseofradioactivebyproductmaterials.
ThecodesareFederalandstatelawandtheyarebindinguponlicenseestouphold.

In addition to the CFR, licensees are governed by the provisions outlined in the license authorizing the
possessionofbyproductmaterial. ThepossessionofalicenseobligatestheDepartmenttoscrupulouslyperform
the actionsitstateditwouldperform to comply with the requirementsof it license. This commitmentis the
conditionunderwhichthe Department isable to receiveandthen retain the license. Failure to complycould
meana severefine,loss of license,or both, together with the potential consequences of bad publicity. The
provisionsofthelicensearejustascompellingastheCFRandgovernnuclearsafety.

Possession of a VDH license requires the licensee to adhere to safe practices and act asselfregulatorinthe
enforcement of regulations. This Agency is compelled to report its own infraction of rules to the VDH. To
enforce these safety regulations, periodic checks on theprogramtoseethatVDOTsemployeesarefollowing
the Departments instructions and radiation safety rules are an essential part of nuclear gauge safety and
effectiveprogrammanagement.VDOThasestablishedasystemofrecordscoveringthereceiptandtransferof
nuclear gauges. We must maintain records of radiation exposure of persons working in the program and
surveysareconductedtoevaluatetheeffectivenessofradiationsafetyprograms.

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 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

NUCLEARGAUGESTORAGEREQUIREMENTS

1) Radioactive Material signs shall be posted in the storage unit on the inside of the door in
accordancewithVirginiaDepartmentofHealthRadiationProtectionRegulations.

2) TheFormNoticetoEmployees,shallbepostedontheprojectbulletinboardwherethe nuclear gauge is

assigned, in accordance with Virginia Department of HealthRadiationProtectionRegulations.

3) The radioactive source when not in use and when left unattended shall be storedandsecured(locked,
bolted, etc.) at all timesagainst unauthorized removalfrom the storageplace,inaccordancewithVirginia
DepartmentofHealth Radiation Protection Regulations.ThemagentaandyellowFEDERALOFFENSEsign
shallbepostedonthelockedbluecarryingcasewhilethenucleargaugeisbeingstored.Theintentofthis
signistodiscouragethetheftofthegauge.

4) VDOT requires that an outside storage facility be used and that it be at least 10 feet from personnels
permanentworkstation(desk).SeeRoadandBridgeSpecifications,Section514.02(c).

5) ThenucleargaugeandTLDs(FilmBadge)storedshallbeatleast10feetapart.Badges shall be stored in

designatedareainsideprojecttrailer.

6) Therequiredrecordsoftransfershallbecompletedwhenthenucleargaugeisintransitontheprojectsite
by using log sheet locatedin the storage facility on the projectsite, or movedfromone assignedarea to
anotherorwhentransferredtoanotherlicense.

NUCLEARGAUGECALIBRATIONS

Thesourcedecaysatarateof2.2%peryearandtheelectronicshaveaminoramountofdriftfromagingparts.
Therefore,gauges are calibrated in the laboratory at least yearly under controlledconditionsusing the same
methodsoftestingasinthefield. Thegaugesarecalibratedonaseriesofblocksofknowndensityandmoisture
contents.

2016v1.0Chapter6|19

 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

NUCLEARGAUGEMAINTENANCE

Thesourcerodinthe3400SeriesissupportedinlinearbearingspackedwithMagnalubeGgrease.Thegreaseis
retainedwithinthebearingsandthesoilkeptoutbyasystemofwipersandsealsatthetopandbottomofthe
centerpostofthegauge.Thesebearingswillrequirelittleornoservice,unlessthegaugeisoverhauled.Donot
lubricate.

Onthebottomsurfaceofthegaugeisaremovableplatewithabrassscraperringmountedinit.Thisringwill
remove most of the soil from the source rod. However, under some soil conditions, small amounts will be
carriedintotheslidingshieldassembly.Ifallowedtobuildup,thissoilcancausewearintheshieldcavityand
canultimatelybeforcedintothebearingsandruinthem.

Cleaning the cavity is relatively simple. Place the gauge on its side on a bench with the base away from the
operator.ThesourcerodshouldbelatchedintheSAFEposition.UsingaPhillipsscrewdriver,removethefour
screwsholdingthebottomplateassemblyinpositionandpryouttheassemblyusingaflatbladescrewdriver.
Usingthesametool,removetheslidingblockandspring.

Usingarag,stiffbrushandcompressedair,ifavailable,removeallsoilandwipecleanthecavity,slidingblock
andbottomplateassembly.Inspectallitemsforexcessivewearandreplaceifrequired.Checkthescraperring
toinsurethatitisfreetomoveinitsgroove.Iftheringisdamaged,itmaybereplacedorreplacetheassembly.
Thecleaningtimewilltakenolongerthanfive(5)minutes.

NuclearGaugeCleaningProcedures

1) Standingbehindthegaugewiththesourcerodpointingawayfromyou,placethegaugeonits
endandremovethescrewsfromthebottomplate.

2016v1.0Chapter6|20

 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

2) Removethebottomplateandthetungstenslidingblockthatshieldsthesourcerod.

3) Cleantheareaaroundthetungstenslidingblock.Then,cleanandpolishthefaceoftheblocktoremove
allroughsurfaces.Donotgethandsnearthesourcerod.

2016v1.0Chapter6|21

 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

4) Replacetheblockandplate.Cleanthegaugeanytimethatdifficultyisencounteredwhentryingtolower
and/orraisethesourcerod.

BatteryChargingforModel3440

A fully charged battery will last approximately 8 weeks under normal working conditions (8 hours/day). The
3440 display panel will give you the hours remaining on the current charge and, when it is running low, the
screenwilldisplayBATTERIESLOW!Youstillhaveafewhoursleftwhenthisdisplayoccursinordertofinishthe
currenttesting.Atthecompletionofthedaystestinghowever,thegaugeneedstobepluggedinovernightto
fullyrecharge.

IMPORTANT:Onlyrechargewhenthegaugeindicatesthatitislow.Needlessrechargingwillshortenthebattery
life.

AlkalineBatteryUse

Alkalinebatteriesmaybeusedwhenrechargingisnotanoption.Thegaugehasaseparatebatterycaseforthis
purpose.Refertomanualforfurtherinstructions.

CAUTION:Nevermixalkalineandrechargeablebatteriesinthegauge.Theymayexplodewhencharging!!!

2016v1.0Chapter6|22

 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

INSTRUCTIONSTOFOLLOWINTHEEVENTOFANACCIDENT

DONOTDISCUSSINCIDENTWITHANYONEEXCEPTPOLICE,STATEMATERIALS
PERSONNEL,ANDYOURIMMEDIATESUPERVISOR.
(TheDistrictPublicRelationsSpecialistmustaddressallnewsmediaquestions)

1) Stopanddetainallequipmentorvehiclesinvolveduntiltheassessmentcanbemadetodetermineifthereis
anycontamination.Ifavehicleisinvolved,notifythelocalandstatepolice.Letthemknowthatradioactive
materialsareinvolved.Segregateanddetainallpersonsinvolved.

2) Assessandtreatlifethreateninginjuriesimmediately.Donotdelayadvancedlifesupportifvictimscannot
be moved. Move victims away from the radiation hazard area if possible, using proper patient transfer
techniquestopreventfurtherinjury.Staywithinthecontrolledareaifcontaminationissuspected.

3) Prohibiteating,drinking,orsmokingbypersonswhileattheaccidentscene.

4) Locatethegaugeandorsource,seeattachedchecklist.

5) Immediatelycordonoffatleasta20feetradiussurroundingthegaugeandparts,ifany.Keeponlookers
andallunnecessarypersonnelatasafedistance,whilecaringfororrescuinganypersonswhoareinjured.

6) Notify the nearest Radiation Safety Officer of the license holder to come and monitor the device to
determineifthereispossibleleakage.Givegooddirectionsastolocationofaccident.

7) Never let anyone remove the gauge, equipment or any articles that are involved in the accident until the
areahasbeenclearedbyamonitoringteam.

8) CompletetheNuclearAccidentChecklistlocatedintheBillofLadingaftertheRSOormonitoringteamhas
arrivedandassessedthesituation.TheEmergencyNotificationListisalsointheBillofLading.

2016v1.0Chapter6|23

 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

NUCLEARGAUGETESTINGFLOWCHART

PretestandWarmUpProcedures
1) CleanGauge(IfNeeded)

2) WarmUpGauge(300seconds)
3) PerformStandardCount
(Mustbeperformeddaily)
4) ChargeBatteries(ifneeded)
(16hourminimumexceptinemergency,such
asRollerPattern)

SoilsTestingEquipment AggregateTestingEquipment

1) FilmBadge 1) FilmBadge
2) BillofLading 2) BillofLading
3) ScraperPlate 3) ScraperPlate
4) DrillRod 4) DrillRod
5) ExtractionTool 5) ExtractionTool
6) Hammer 6) Hammer
7) ProctorData 7) Proctor/TargetDensityData
8) ProperForm(i.e.TL124) 8) ProperForms(i.e.TL53,etc.)

SoilsTestingSitePreparation AggregatesTestingSitePreparation

1) ConstructionPlans(asanaidin 1) Chooserepresentativesite(notanarea
choosingtestsitesinproposedfills) withonlycoarseoronlyfinematerial)
2) Bladeoffarea(fillinvoidswith4 2) Donotfallintoasettestingroutine
material) (randomizetestingpatternsand
frequency)

AggregateTestingProcedures
SoilsTestingProcedures

1) Settimecontrol(1minuteforall
1) Settimecontrol(1minuteforall
testingexceptRollerPatterns)
testingexceptRollerPatterns)
2) PushStartbutton
2) Pullgaugeback
3) Stepbackfromgauge(atleasttwo
3) PushStartbutton
paces)
4) Stepbackfromgauge(atleasttwo
paces)
4) Backscattermethodforallaggregate
material
5) DirectTransmissionmethodforallsoil
5) DirectTransmissionmethodisonly
material
usedwhenvalidatingControlStrip

RecordDataandAcceptTestResults

Alltestresultsareacceptedbasedontheir
comparisontoknownTARGETdensitiesand
moistures

Soiltestsarecomparedtoproctorresults: AggregatematerialiscomparedtoControl
Moisturerangeforacceptanceis20%of Striptestresults:Moisturerangeis2
optimummoisture.Densityrangeis95%for percentagepointsofoptimummoisture.
embankmentmaterialandpipebackfilland Densityrangeisaminimumof95%foreach
100%forsubgradematerial individualreadingand98%foranaverageof
thesame5readings

2016v1.0Chapter6|24


TROUBLESHOOTINGGUIDEFORTHENUCLEARGAUGE
Problem
Gaugeturnsoffafteritisturnedon
orwillnotturnonatall
ShortBatteryLife
QuestionableStandardCounts
QuestionableMoistureCounts
QuestionableDensityCounts
2016v1.0Chapter6|25
ProbableCause
1. Gaugemaybewet.DONOTturn
gaugeonuntilithasdried.
2. Batteriesarelow.
1. Badoutlet.
2. Batteriesarereachingendofcycleor
chargeisntworking.
1. Gaugeneedsmorewarmuptimeor
isntproperlyseatedonthestandard
block.
2. Handleisntinthesafeposition.
3. Backgroundinterference.
1. Mica,asbestos,orotherhydrogenrich
materialisinthesoil.
2. Backgroundinterferencefromlarge
structureortrenchwallifbelow
groundlevel.
3. Internaltubefailure.
4. Handlenotlockedintestingposition
notch.
1. Presenceof+4Material.
2. Testisnttakenonsoilrepresentedby
Proctortestresult.
3. Internaltubefailure.
4. Handleisntlockedintotesting
position.
VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction
Solution
1. Waituntilgaugedriesoff.
2. Rechargebatteriesminimumof16hours(short
andfrequentchargedrainsbatterylife).If
chargedoesntholdcallDistrictMaterials
Section.
1. Checkoutlet.
2. CalltheDistrictMaterialsSection.
1. Checktoseethatthegaugeisntonthe
standardblockbackwards. Cleanalldirt,gravel,
etc.fromthegaugestandardortestblock.
Makesurethesecountsaretakenexactlyasall
priortests.
2. Checkhandleposition.
3. Moveawayfromanylargestructures.
1. RunaSpeedyMoisturetest.
2. Movetestsiteawayfromstructuresorrun
backgroundcountiftestinginatrench.
3. Runnewstandardcounttocheckgauge.
4. Checkhandleposition.
1. Checkfor+4materialandtakecorrectiveaction
thatappliestoyourDistrict.
2. RunaProctortest.
3. Runnewstandardcounts.
4. Checkthehandleposition.

 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

CHAPTER6STUDYQUESTIONS

1) Batteriesshouldbecharged____________________________________________.

2) TrueorFalse.Thenucleargaugeshouldbewarmedupfirstthinginthemorningbeforeusingit.

3) TrueorFalse.Theonlymaintenanceperformedinthefieldiscleaningthenucleargaugeandchargingthe
batteries.

4) Whentakingastandardcount,thenucleargaugeshouldbeaminimumof__________ft.fromany
structureand__________ft.fromanyotherradioactivesource.

5) TrueorFalse. Cesium137islocatedinthetipofthestainlesssteelrodwhichisusedin taking moisture

determinationsandAmericium241:Berylliumis locatedinsidethenucleargaugeandisusedfordensity
testing.

6) W h e n t a k i n g StandardCountsthe ReferenceStandardshould be placed on whattypeofsurface?

7) Threewaystolimitexposuretoradiationare__________,____________,and____________.

8) Ifthe soilmaterial failsa nucleartest becauseofexcessivemoisture,the firststeptakenisto

_________________________.

9) Atestingmethodfortestingdensitieswherebythesourcerodisinsertedintothematerialtobetestedata
depthof4,6,or8inchesis_________________________.

10) If,duringconstruction,thedensityresultseitherchangesuddenly,orsimplydontmakesense,youshould
______________________________________________________________.

11) Ifthemoistureresultsfromthenucleartestappearhigh,the__________________________couldbeused
tocheckthemoisture.

12) Whenanucleargaugeisoperatedwithin24ofaverticalstructure,the_______________and
_______________areinfluencedbythestructure.

2016v1.0Chapter6|26

 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

CHAPTER6PRACTICEPROBLEMS

NuclearGaugeTestingofSoilMaterial(DensityandMoisture)

TransfertheinformationfromeachPracticeProblembelowtotheFormTL124andthendetermine
whethereachtestpasses.

PracticeProblem1
NuclearGaugeDisplayPanel
ProctorData

MaximumDryDensity=114.6lbs/ft3 %PR=______%

OptimumMoisture=14.1% DD=114.2
WD=133.3


M=19.1M%=16.7



PracticeProblem2
NuclearGaugeDisplayPanel

ProctorData
MaximumDryDensity=106.9lbs/ft3 %PR=______%

OptimumMoisture=17.6% DD=105.7
WD=123.6

M=17.9M%=16.9



PracticeProblem3
NuclearGaugeDisplayPanel

ProctorData
MaximumDryDensity=112.1lbs/ft3 %PR=97.8%

OptimumMoisture=15.2% DD=109.6
WD=128.2

M=18.6M%=17.0

2016v1.0Chapter6|27

 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

FormTL124(Rev.07/15)
VIRGINIADEPARTMENTOFTRANPORTATION
MATERIALSDIVISION
REPORTONNUCLEAREMBANKMENTDENSITIES(UNITMASSES)

ReportNo. 45 Date 06/22/2015 SheetNo. 1 of 1
RouteNo. 252 County Augusta
ProjectNo. 0252132101,C501
FHWANo. None
Testingfor Embankment
ModelNo. 3440 SerialNo. 23456 CalibrationDate 02/10/2015


STANDARDCOUNTDATA
Density 2844 Moisture 701

TestNo. 1 2 3 4
Location Stationft.(m) 305+00 305+60 306+20
of Ref.tocenterlineft.(m) at.C/L 10Lt. 7Lt.
Test Elevation +10/7 +3/10 +3/3
CompactionDepthofLiftin.(mm) 6 6 6
MethodofCompaction Sheepsfoot Sheepsfoot Sheepsfoot
A. WetDensity(lbs/ft3),WetUnitMass(kg/m3) =
3 3
B. MoistureUnitMass(lbs/ft orkg/m ) =

C. DryDensity(lbs/ft3),DryUnitMass(kg/m3)(AB) =

D. MoistureContent(BC)x100 =
3 3
E. MaximumDryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )
=
LabProctororOnePointProctor

F. PercentOptimumMoisturefromLaborOnePointProctor =

G. PercentofPlus#4,(plus4.75mm) =
3 3
H. CorrectedMax.DryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m ) =

I. CorrectedOptimumMoisture =
3 3
J. PercentDryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )
=
(CE)x100or(CH)x100
K. PercentMinimumDensityRequired =

Comments:

BY:

TITLE:

2016v1.0Chapter6|28

 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

CHAPTER6PRACTICEPROBLEMS

NuclearGaugeTestingofSoilMaterial(CorrectingforHighMoisture)

PracticeProblem4

ThenucleardensitytestreportedontheFormTL124onthefollowingpageshowsafalsehighmoisture
content,assumedtobecausedbymicaceoussoil. CorrectthetestresultsusingaSpeedyMoistureMeter
andrecordtheresultsinthesecondcolumnoftheFormTL124.

SpeedyDialReading=9.6

2016v1.0Chapter6|29

 VDOTSoilsandAggregateCompaction

FormTL124(Rev.07/15)
VIRGINIADEPARTMENTOFTRANPORTATION
MATERIALSDIVISION
REPORTONNUCLEAREMBANKMENTDENSITIES(UNITMASSES)

ReportNo. 1171 Date 06/22/2015 SheetNo. 1 of 1

RouteNo. 17 County Campbell
ProjectNo. 0017015104,C503
FHWANo. None
Testingfor Embankment
ModelNo. 3440 SerialNo. 23456 CalibrationDate 02/10/2015


STANDARDCOUNTDATA
Density 2830 Moisture 701

TestNo. 1 2 3 4
Location Stationft.(m) 85+00
of Ref.tocenterlineft.(m) at.C/L
Test Elevation +9/3
CompactionDepthofLiftin.(mm) 6
MethodofCompaction Sheepsfoot
3 3
A. WetDensity(lbs/ft ),WetUnitMass(kg/m ) = 141.0
3 3
B. MoistureUnitMass(lbs/ft orkg/m ) = 23.1
3 3
C. DryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )(AB) = 117.9

D. MoistureContent(BC)x100 = 19.6
3 3
E. MaximumDryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )
= 132.4
LabProctororOnePointProctor
9.2
F. PercentOptimumMoisturefromLaborOnePointProctor =
7.411.0
G. PercentofPlus#4,(plus4.75mm) =
3 3
H. CorrectedMax.DryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m ) =

I. CorrectedOptimumMoisture =
3 3
J. PercentDryDensity(lbs/ft ),DryUnitMass(kg/m )
= 89.0
(CE)x100or(CH)x100
K. PercentMinimumDensityRequired = 95.0

Comments:

BY:

TITLE:

2016v1.0Chapter6|30