This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: D5311/D5311M − 13

Standard Test Method for

Load Controlled Cyclic Triaxial Strength of Soil1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5311/D5311M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope* purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the cyclic considerations for the objectives of the user. Increasing or
strength (sometimes called the liquefaction potential) of satu- reducing the significant digits of reported data to be commen-
rated soils in either intact or reconstituted states by the surate with these considerations is common practice. Consid-
load-controlled cyclic triaxial technique. eration of the significant digits to be used in analysis methods
for engineering design is beyond the scope of this standard.
1.2 The cyclic strength of a soil is evaluated relative to a 1.6.1 The method used to specify how data are collected,
number of factors, including: the development of axial strain, calculated, or recorded in this standard is not directly related to
magnitude of applied cyclic stress, number of cycles of stress the accuracy to which the data can be applied in design or other
application, development of excess pore-water pressure, and uses, or both. How one applies the results obtained using this
state of effective stress. A comprehensive review of factors standard is beyond its scope.
affecting cyclic triaxial test results is contained in the literature
(1).2 1.7 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
[presented in brackets] are to be regarded separately as
1.3 Cyclic triaxial strength tests are conducted under standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact
undrained conditions to simulate essentially undrained field equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently
conditions during earthquake or other cyclic loading. of the other. Combining values from the two systems may
1.4 Cyclic triaxial strength tests are destructive. Failure may result in non-conformance with the standard. Reporting of test
be defined on the basis of the number of stress cycles required results in units other than SI shall not be regarded as noncon-
to reach a limiting strain or 100 % pore pressure ratio. See formance with this test method.
Section 3 for Terminology. 1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the
1.5 This test method is generally applicable for testing safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
cohesionless free draining soils of relatively high permeability. responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
When testing well-graded materials, silts, or clays, pore-water priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
pressures monitored at the specimen ends may not represent bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
pore-water pressure values throughout the specimen. However,
this test method may be followed when testing most soil types 2. Referenced Documents
if care is taken to ensure that problem soils receive special 2.1 ASTM Standards:3
consideration when tested and when test results are evaluated. D422 Test Method for Particle-Size Analysis of Soils
1.6 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
guide for significant digits and rounding established in Practice Fluids
D6026. The procedures in Practice D6026 that are used to D854 Test Methods for Specific Gravity of Soil Solids by
specify how data are collected, recorded, and calculated are Water Pycnometer
regarded as the industry standard. In addition, they are repre- D1587 Practice for Thin-Walled Tube Sampling of Soils for
sentative of the significant digits that should generally be Geotechnical Purposes
retained. The procedures do not consider material variation, D2216 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water
(Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
D2850 Test Method for Unconsolidated-Undrained Triaxial
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Compression Test on Cohesive Soils
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.09 on Cyclic and
Dynamic Properties of Soils.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2013. Published December 2013. Originally
3
approved in 1992. Last previous edition approved in 2011 as D5311 – 11. DOI: For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
10.1520/D5311_D5311M-13. contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
2
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to a list of references at the end of Standardsvolume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
this standard. the ASTM website.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

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 D5311/D5311M − 13
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies earthquake or other dynamic loading. The cyclic loading
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as generally causes an increase in the pore-water pressure in the
Used in Engineering Design and Construction specimen, resulting in a decrease in the effective stress and an
D4220 Practices for Preserving and Transporting Soil increase in the cyclic axial deformation of the specimen.
Samples 4.5 Failure may be defined as when the peak excess pore-
D4253 Test Methods for Maximum Index Density and Unit water pressure equals the initial effective confining pressure,
Weight of Soils Using a Vibratory Table full or 100 % pore pressure ratio (sometimes called initial
D4254 Test Methods for Minimum Index Density and Unit liquefaction), or in terms of a limiting cyclic strain or perma-
Weight of Soils and Calculation of Relative Density nent strain.
D4318 Test Methods for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and
Plasticity Index of Soils 5. Significance and Use
D4767 Test Method for Consolidated Undrained Triaxial 5.1 Cyclic triaxial strength test results are used for evaluat-
Compression Test for Cohesive Soils ing the ability of a soil to resist the shear stresses induced in a
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical soil mass due to earthquake or other cyclic loading.
Data 5.1.1 Cyclic triaxial strength tests may be performed at
different values of effective confining pressure on isotropically
3. Terminology consolidated specimens to provide data required for estimating
3.1 Definitions: the cyclic stability of a soil.
3.1.1 Definitions for terms used in this test method (includ- 5.1.2 Cyclic triaxial strength tests may be performed at a
ing liquefaction) are in accordance with Terminology D653. single effective confining pressure, usually equal to 100 kN/m2
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: [14.5 lb/in.2], or alternate pressures as appropriate on isotropi-
3.2.1 full or 100 % pore pressure ratio— a condition in cally consolidated specimens to compare cyclic strength results
which ∆u equals σ'3c. for a particular soil type with that of other soils, Ref (2).
3.2.2 peak pore pressure ratio—the maximum pore pressure 5.2 The cyclic triaxial test is a commonly used technique for
ratio measured during a particular loading sequence. determining cyclic soil strength.
3.2.3 peak (single amplitude) strain—the maximum axial 5.3 Cyclic strength depends upon many factors, including
strain (from the origin or initial step) in either compression or density, confining pressure, applied cyclic shear stress, stress
extension produced during a particular loading sequence. history, grain structure, age of soil deposit, specimen prepara-
3.2.4 peak to peak (double amplitude) strain— the differ- tion procedure, and the frequency, uniformity, and shape of the
ence between the maximum axial strain in compression and cyclic wave form. Thus, close attention must be given to
extension during a given cycle under cyclic loading conditions. testing details and equipment.
3.2.5 pore pressure ratio—the ratio, expressed as a 5.4 There are certain limitations inherent in using cyclic
percentage, of the change of excess pore-water pressure, ∆ u, triaxial tests to simulate the stress and strain conditions of a soil
to the effective minor principal stress, σ'3c, at the end of element in the field during an earthquake.
primary consolidation. 5.4.1 Nonuniform stress conditions within the test specimen
are imposed by the specimen end platens. This can cause a
3.2.6 cyclic stress ratio—the ratio of the applied deviator redistribution of void ratio within the specimen during the test.
stress to the effective confining pressure (incorporating 5.4.2 A 90° change in the direction of the major principal
changes in excess pore water pressure) during cyclic loading. stress occurs during the two halves of the loading cycle on
isotropically consolidated specimens.
4. Summary of Test Method 5.4.3 The maximum cyclic shear stress that can be applied
4.1 A cylindrical soil specimen is sealed in a watertight to the specimen is controlled by the stress conditions at the end
rubber membrane and confined in a triaxial chamber where it of consolidation and the pore-water pressures generated during
is subjected to a confining pressure. An axial load is applied to testing. For an isotropically consolidated contractive (volume
the top of the specimen by a load rod. decreasing) specimen tested in cyclic compression, the maxi-
4.2 Specimens are consolidated isotropically (equal axial mum cyclic shear stress that can be applied to the specimen is
and radial stress). Tubing connections to the top and bottom equal to one-half of the initial total axial pressure. Since
specimen platens permit flow of water during saturation, cohesionless soils are not capable of taking tension, cyclic
consolidation and measurement of pore-water pressure during shear stresses greater than this value tend to lift the top platen
cyclic loading. from the soil specimen. Also, as the pore-water pressure
increases during tests performed on isotropically consolidated
4.3 Following saturation and consolidation, the specimen is specimens, the effective confining pressure is reduced, contrib-
subjected to a sinusoidally varying axial load by means of the uting to the tendency of the specimen to neck during the
load rod connected to the specimen top platen. The cyclic load, extension portion of the load cycle, invalidating test results
specimen axial deformation, and porewater pressure develop- beyond that point.
ment with time are monitored. 5.4.4 While it is advised that the best possible intact
4.4 The test is conducted under undrained conditions to specimens be obtained for cyclic strength testing, it is some-
approximate essentially undrained field conditions during times necessary to reconstitute soil specimens. It has been

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 D5311/D5311M − 13
shown that different methods of reconstituting specimens to the 6.2.2 The load rod diameter shall be large enough to
same density may result in significantly different cyclic minimize lateral bending. A minimum load rod diameter of 1⁄6
strengths. Also, intact specimens will almost always be stron- the specimen diameter has been used successfully in many
ger than reconstituted specimens. laboratories.
5.4.5 The interaction between the specimen, membrane, and 6.2.3 The load rod seal is a critical element in triaxial cell
confining fluid has an influence on cyclic behavior. Membrane design for cyclic soils testing. The seal must exert negligible
compliance effects cannot be readily accounted for in the test
friction on the load rod. The maximum acceptable piston
procedure or in interpretation of test results. Changes in
friction tolerable without applying load corrections is com-
porewater pressure can cause changes in membrane penetration
in specimens of cohesionless soils. These changes can signifi- monly considered to be 62 % of the maximum single ampli-
cantly influence the test results. tude cyclic load applied in the test. The use of an air bushing
5.4.6 The mean total confining pressure is asymmetric as proposed in Ref (3) will meet or exceed these requirements.
during the compression and extension stress application when 6.2.4 Top and bottom platen alignment is critical if prema-
the chamber pressure is constant. This is totally different from ture specimen failure caused by the application of a nonuni-
the symmetric stress in the simple shear case of the level form state of stress to the specimen is to be avoided. Internal
ground liquefaction. tie-rod triaxial cells that allow for adjustment of alignment
NOTE 1—The quality of the result produced by this standard is before placement of the chamber have been found to work well
dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the
suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the
at a number of laboratories. These cells allow the placement of
criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent the cell wall after the specimen is in place between the loading
and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are platens. Acceptable limits of platen eccentricity and parellelism
cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure are shown in Fig. 2.
reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740
provides a means of evaluating some of those factors. 6.2.5 Since in cyclic triaxial tests extension as well as
compression loads may be exerted on the specimen, the load
6. Apparatus rod shall be connected to the top platen by straight threads
6.1 In many ways, triaxial equipment suitable for cyclic backed by a shoulder on the piston that tightens up against the
triaxial strength tests is similar to equipment used for the platen.
unconsolidated-undrained triaxial compression test (see Test 6.2.6 There shall be provision for specimen drainage at both
Method D2850) and the consolidated-undrained triaxial com- the top and bottom platens.
pression test (see Test Method D4767). However, there are 6.2.7 Porous Discs—The specimen shall be separated from
special features described in the following subsections that are the specimen cap and base by rigid porous discs of a diameter
required to perform acceptable cyclic triaxial tests. A schematic
equal to that of the specimen. The coefficient of permeability of
representation of a typical load-controlled cyclic triaxial
the discs shall be approximately equal to that of fine sand
strength test set-up is shown in Fig. 1.
(1 × 10−4 cm/s [3.9 × 10−5 in./s]). The discs shall be regularly
6.2 Triaxial Compression Cell—The primary considerations checked to determine whether they have become clogged.
in selecting the cell are tolerances for the piston, top cap, and
low friction piston seal. 6.3 Dynamic loading equipment used for load-controlled
6.2.1 Two linear ball bushings or similar bearings shall be cyclic triaxial tests shall be capable of applying a uniform
used to guide the load rod to minimize friction and to maintain sinusoidal load at a frequency range of 0.1 to 2.0 Hz. The
alignment. frequency of 1.0 Hz is preferred. The loading device shall be
able to maintain uniform cyclic loadings to at least 20 %
peak-to-peak strains. Unsymmetrical compression-extension
load peaks, nonuniformity of pulse duration,“ ringing,” or load
fall-off at large strains shall not exceed tolerance illustrated in
Fig. 3. The equipment shall also be able to apply the cyclic load
about an initial static load on the loading rod. Evaluate
uniformity of the load trace into the failure state to ensure that
load uniformity criteria presented in previous sections are
achieved. Show this in an appropriate way by calculating the
percent load drift (Error∆P) between the maximum load
(∆Pmax) based on the initial loading cycle and the measured
load in the nth cycle (∆Pn) as follows:
∆ P max 5 ~ ∆P c 1∆ P e ! max (1)

∆ P n 5 ~ ∆P c 1∆ P e ! n

FIG. 1 Schematic Representation of Load-Controlled Cyclic Tri- ∆ P max 2 ∆ P n

Error∆P 5 3 100 %
axial Strength Test Equipment ∆ P max

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 D5311/D5311M − 13
where:
∆Pmax = maximum change in peak applied loads,
∆Pc = change in peak applied load in compression,
∆Pe = change in peak applied load in extension,
∆Pn = load on the nth cycle, and
Error∆P = percent load drift, which shall be less than 5 % at
axial strains of 65 %.
NOTE 2—For less than 20 cycles for samples with high fines content, a
non-uniform pore pressure distribution may result.
6.4 Recording Equipment—Load, displacement, and pore
water pressure transducers are required to monitor specimen
behavior during cyclic loading; provisions for monitoring the
chamber pressure during loading are optional (see Table 1).
6.4.1 Axial Load Measurement—The desired maximum cy-
clic load-measuring device may be an electronic load cell or
any other load-measuring device capable of measuring the
axial load to an accuracy of within 61 % of the axial load.
Generally, the load cell capacity shall be no greater than five
times the total maximum load applied to the test specimen to
ensure that the necessary measurement accuracy is achieved.
The minimum performance characteristics of the load cell are
presented in Table 1.
6.4.2 Axial Deformation Measurement— Displacement
measuring devices such as linear variable differential trans-
former (LVDT), potentiometer-type deformation transducers,
and eddy current sensors may be used if they have an accuracy
of 60.02 % of the initial specimen height (see Table 1).
Accurate deformation measurements require that the trans-
ducer be properly mounted to avoid excessive mechanical
system compression between the load frame, the triaxial cell,
the load cell, and the loading piston.
6.4.3 Pore-Water Pressure Transducer— The specimen
pore-water pressure shall be measured to within 62 kPa [0.25
psi]. During cyclic loading the pore-water pressure shall be
measured in such a manner that as little water as possible is
allowed to go into or out of the specimen. To achieve this
requirement for cyclic loading, a very stiff electronic pressure
FIG. 2 Limits on Acceptable Platen and Load Rod Alignment transducer must be used. The measuring device shall have a
(a) Eccentricity and (b) Parallelism compliance of all the assembled parts of the pore-water
pressure measurement system relative to the total volume of
the specimen satisfying the following requirement:
∆V/V
,or 3.2 3 1026 m 2 /kN/lb @ 2.2 3 1025 in . 2 # (2)
∆u

where:
∆V = change in volume of the pore-water measurement
system due to a pore pressure change, m3 [in.3],
V = the total volume of the specimen, m3 [in.3], and
∆u = the change in pore pressure, kPa [psi].
The pore-water pressures shall be measured using the
drainage line(s) leading to either (or both) the specimen cap or
base.
6.4.4 Recorders—Specimen behavior is evaluated from con-
tinuous time records of applied load, axial deformation, and
change in pore-water pressure. Fast recording system response
FIG. 3 Examples of Acceptable and Unacceptable Sinusoidal is essential if specimen performance is to be monitored
Loading Wave Forms for Cyclic Triaxial Strength Tests accurately when failure conditions are approached. Required

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 D5311/D5311M − 13
TABLE 1 Data Acquisition
Minimum Response Characteristics for Cyclic Triaxial Strength Tests
1. Analog Recorders:
Recording speeds: 0.5 to 50 cm/s [0.2 to 20 in./s] system accuracy (including linearity and hysteresis): 0.5 %A frequency response: 100 Hz
2. Digital Recorders:
Minimum sampling rate: 40 data points per cycle
3. Measurement Transducers:
Load Cell Displacement Transducer (LVDT)B Pore Pressure
Minimum sensitivity, mV/V 2 0.2 mV/0.025 mm/V 2
[0.2 mV/0.001 in./V]
(AC LVDT)
5 mV/0.025 mm/V
[5 mV/0.001 in./V]
(DC LVDT)
Nonlinearity, % full scale ± ±0.25 ±0.5
Hysteresis, % full scale ±0.25 0.0 ±0.5
Repeatability, % full scale ±0.10 ±0.01 ±0.5
Thermal effects on zero shift or sensitivity ±0.005 [±0.025] ... ±0.02 [±0.01]
%of full scale/°C [°F]
Maximum deflection at full rated value in 0.125 [0.005] ... ...
mm [in.]
3
Volume change characteristics, cm /kPa ... ... <2.4 × 10−4
[cu in./psi] [<1.0 × 10−4]
A
System frequency response, sensitivity, and linearity are functions of the electronic system interfacing, the performance of the signal conditioning system used, and other
factors. It is therefore a necessity to check and calibrate the above parameters as a total system and not on a component basis.
B
LVDT’s, unlike strain gages, cannot be supplied with meaningful calibration data. System sensitivity is a function of excitation frequency, cable loading, amplifier phase
characteristics, and other factors. It is necessary to calibrate each LVDT-cable-instrument system after installation, using a known input standard.

response characteristics are given in Table 1. Resolution of temperature fluctuations are less than 64°C [67.2°F] and there
each variable shall be better than 2 % of the maximum value is no direct contact with sunlight.
being measured. 6.9 Miscellaneous Apparatus—Specimen trimming and
6.4.5 Volume Change Measurement Device— The volume carving tools including a wire saw, steel straightedge, miter
of water entering or leaving the specimen shall be measured box, and vertical trimming lath, apparatus for preparing com-
with an accuracy of within 60.05 % of the total volume of the pacted specimens, membrane and O-ring expander, water
specimen. The volume measuring device is usually a burette content cans, and data sheets shall be provided as required.
but may be any other device meeting the accuracy requirement.
The device must be able to withstand the maximum chamber 7. Sampling
pressure.
7.1 Take special care in sampling and transporting samples
6.5 Valves—Changes in volume due to opening and closing to be used for cyclic triaxial tests as the quality of the results
valves may result in inaccurate volume change and pore-water diminishes greatly with sample disturbance. Practices D1587
pressure measurements. For this reason, valves in the specimen and D4220 cover procedures and apparatus that may be used to
drainage system shall be of the type that produce minimum obtain satisfactory samples for testing.
volume changes due to their operation. A valve may be
assumed to produce minimum volume change if opening or 8. Specimen Preparation
closing the valve in a closed, saturated pore-water pressure
system does not induce a pressure change of greater than 60.7 8.1 Specimens shall be cylindrical and have a minimum
kPa [60.1 psi]. All valves must be capable of withstanding diameter of 51 mm [2.0 in.]. The height-to-diameter ratio shall
applied pressures without leakage. be between 2.0 and 2.5. The largest particle size shall be
smaller than 1⁄6 the specimen diameter. If, after completion of
NOTE 3—Ball valves have been found to provide minimum volume a test, visual observation finds that oversize particles are
change characteristics; however, any other type of valve having suitable
volume change characteristics may be used.
present, an appropriate statement shall be made in the report of
test data under remarks.
6.6 Weighing Device—The specimen weighing device shall
determine the mass of the specimen to an accuracy of within 8.2 Trim intact specimens for testing in any manner that
60.05 % of the total mass of the specimen. minimizes sample disturbance, minimizes changes in the
sampled density of the specimen, and minimizes changes in the
6.7 Water Deaeration Device—The amount of dissolved gas initial water content. No matter what trimming method is used,
(air) in the water used to saturate the specimen may be take extreme care to ensure that the specimen ends are flat and
decreased by boiling, by heating and spraying into a vacuum, parallel. A procedure that has been shown to achieve these
or by any other method that will satisfy the requirement for criteria for frozen specimens of clean sands (GP, SP-SM) is as
saturating the specimen within the limits imposed by the follows:
available maximum back pressure and time to perform the test. 8.2.1 If a milling machine is available, cut the sample tube
6.8 Testing Environment—The consolidation and shear por- lengthwise at two diametrically opposite places (see Note 4),
tion of the test shall be performed in an environment where using a rapid feed, and then cut into sections with an electric

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 D5311/D5311M − 13
hacksaw. Do not cut entire length of tube. If a milling machine difference between the tamping method is that each layer is
is not used, cut the desired section with an electric hacksaw or compacted by hand tamping with a compaction foot instead of
a tube cutter with stiffening collars. Then clean the cut ends of with a vibrator.
the tube of burrs, and push the specimen from the tube. Trim 8.3.4 After the specimen has been formed, place the speci-
the ends of the specimen smooth and perpendicular to the men cap in place and seal the specimen with “O”-rings or
length using a miter box. Take care to ensure that the specimen rubber bands after rolling the membrane ends over the cap and
remains frozen during the trimming operation. Place the base. Then apply a partial vacuum of ≤35 kPa [5 psi] to the
specimen in the triaxial chamber and enclose it in a rubber specimen and remove the forming jacket. If the test confining
membrane. Apply a partial vacuum of 35 kPa [5 psi] to the pressure is greater than 103 kPa [14.7 psi], apply a full vacuum
specimen and measure the specimen diameter and height to the specimen before removing the jacket. Application of
according to the method given in 9.2 to calculate the initial large vacuum can cause large volume changes of the specimen.
volume of the specimen. After the specimen has thawed, The specimen volume shall be measured before and after
remeasure the specimen to determine specimen conditions vacuum application to check for this occurrence.
immediately before saturation. Volume change during thawing
indicates that inadequate sampling or specimen preparation 9. Procedure
techniques may have been used. 9.1 Because of the wide variety of triaxial equipment
8.2.2 Intact Specimens—Prepare intact specimens from presently in use for cyclic soil testing, it is not possible to
large intact samples or from samples secured in accordance prescribe a step-by-step testing procedure that is compatible
with Method D1587 or other acceptable intact tube sampling with the characteristics of all equipment. The following
procedures and preserved and transported in accordance with procedures, however, will be common to any cyclic triaxial
the practices for Group C and Group D samples as appropriate strength test on saturated specimens.
in Practices D4220. Specimens obtained by tube sampling may
9.2 Specimen Measurement—Because density greatly influ-
be tested without trimming except for cutting the end surfaces
ences the cyclic triaxial strength, it is imperative that accurate
plane and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the
density determination and volume change measurements be
specimen, provided soil characteristics are such that no signifi-
made during saturation and consolidation. Base the initial
cant disturbance results from sampling. Handle specimens
specimen conditions on measurements taken after the mold is
carefully to minimize disturbance, changes in cross section, or
removed (with the specimen under vacuum). Take diameter
change in water content. Samples must be capable of standing
measurements using a circumferential measuring tape4 to the
on their own. If compression or any type of noticeable
nearest 0.025 mm [0.001 in.]. Take height measurements using
disturbance would be caused by the extrusion device, split the
calipers or similar measurement equipment, to the nearest
sample tube lengthwise or cut the tube in suitable sections to
0.025 mm [0.001 in.] at four locations, and measure masses to
facilitate removal of the specimen with minimum disturbance.
the nearest 0.01 g for specimens 63.5 mm [2.5 in.] or less in
Prepare trimmed specimens, in an environment such as a
diameter and 0.1 g for specimens having diameters greater than
controlled high-humidity room where soil water content
63.5 mm [2.5 in.]. Determine water contents taken of specimen
change is minimized.
trimmings to within 0.1 % (see Test Method D2216).
8.3 Reconstituted Specimens—There are a number of meth- 9.3 Saturation—The objective of the saturation phase of the
ods for reconstituting specimens, and the method of specimen test is to fill all voids in the specimen with water without
reconstitution greatly affects test results. One of the following undesirable prestressing of the specimen or allowing the
methods may be used. The method used must be specified in specimen to swell (unless the specimen will swell under the
test report. desired effective consolidation stress). Saturation is usually
8.3.1 Pouring Method (Alternative)—For this specimen accomplished by applying back pressure to the specimen
preparation technique, saturate the soil initially in a container, pore-water to drive air into solution after either: applying
pour through water into a water-filled forming mold, and then vacuum to the specimen and dry drainage system (lines, porous
densify to the required density by vibration (4). discs, pore-pressure device, filter-strips or cage, and discs) and
8.3.2 Dry or Moist Vibration Method (Alternative)—In this allowing deaired water to saturate the system while maintain-
procedure, compact oven dry, air dry, or moist material in lifts ing the vacuum; or saturating the drainage system by boiling
(typically six to seven layers) in a membrane lined split mold the porous discs in water and allowing water to flow through
attached to the bottom platen of the triaxial cell. Compact the the system before mounting the specimen. Sufficient time shall
preweighed material for each lift by vibration to the dry unit be allotted for air to dissolve into solution. Accordingly,
weight required to obtain the prescribed density. The soil removing as much air as possible before applying back
surface shall be scarified between lifts. To obtain layers having pressure will decrease the amount of air that will have to be
equal densities, the bottom layers shall be undercompacted (5), placed into solution and will also decrease the back pressure
since compaction of each succeeding layer densifies the sand in
layers below it. After the last layer is partially compacted, put
the top cap in place and continue vibration until the desired dry 4
The sole source of supply of this material known to the committee at this time
unit weight is obtained. is PI Tape, Box 398, Lemon Grove, CA 92045. If you are aware of alternative
suppliers, please provide this information to ASTM International Headquarters.
8.3.3 Tamping Method (Alternative)—For this procedure Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the responsible
(5), tamp air dried or moist soil in layers into a mold. The only technical committee,1 which you may attend.

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 D5311/D5311M − 13
required for saturation. In addition, air remaining in the the top and bottom of the specimen may flow into the
specimen and drainage system just prior to applying back specimen. To avoid undesirable prestressing of the specimen
pressure will go into solution much more readily if the deaired while applying back pressure, the pressures must be applied
water is used for saturation. The use of deaired water will also incrementally with adequate time between increments to per-
decrease the time and back pressure required for saturation. mit equalization of pore-water pressure throughout the speci-
Many procedures have been developed to accomplish satura- men. For example, the size of each increment might be 35 kPa
tion. The following are suggested procedures: [5 psi], 70 kpa [10 psi], or even 140 kPa [20 psi], depending on
9.3.1 Starting with Initially Dry Drainage System—Increase the compressibility of the soil specimen, the magnitude of the
the 35 kPa [5 psi] partial vacuum acting on top of the specimen desired effective consolidation stress, and the degree of satu-
to the maximum available vacuum. If the effective consolida- ration of the specimen just before the addition of the increment.
tion stress under which the strength is to be determined is less The difference between the chamber pressure and the back
than the maximum partial vacuum, apply a lower partial pressure during back pressuring shall not exceed 35 kPa [5 psi]
vacuum to the chamber. The difference between the partial unless it is deemed necessary to control swelling of the
vacuum applied to the specimen and the chamber pressure shall specimen during the procedure. The differences between the
never exceed the effective consolidation stress for the test and chamber and back pressure must also remain within 65 %
shall never be less than 35 kPa [5 psi]. After approximately 2 when the pressures are raised and within 62 % when the
h, allow deaired water to percolate from the bottom to the top pressures are constant. To check for equalization after appli-
of the specimen under a differential vacuum of less than 20 kPa cation of a back pressure increment or after the full value of
[3 psi]. For specimens of cohesive soils, the time under the back pressure has been applied, close the specimen drainage
maximum available vacuum may have to be decreased to avoid valves and measure the change in pore-pressure over a 1 min
effects due to drying resulting from sublimation. For saturated interval. If the change in pore pressure is less than 1 % of the
clays, percolation may not be necessary and water can be difference between the chamber pressure and the back
added simultaneously at both top and bottom. pressure, add another back pressure increment or take a
9.3.1.1 There shall always be a positive effective stress of at measurement of the Pore Pressure Parameter B (Section 9.3.4)
least 13 kPa [2 psi] at the bottom of the specimen during this to determine if saturation is completed. Specimens shall be
part of the procedure. When water appears in the burette considered saturated if the value of B is equal to or greater than
connected to the top of the specimen, close the valve to the 0.95, or if B remains unchanged with addition of back pressure
bottom of the specimen and fill the burette with deaired water. increments.
Next, reduce the vacuum acting on top of the specimen through NOTE 4—The total back pressure required to saturate a compacted
the burette to atmospheric pressure while simultaneously specimen may be as high as 1400 kPa [200 psi] if the wet mounting
increasing the chamber pressure by an equal amount. During method is used.
this process, the difference between the pore pressure measured NOTE 5—Many laboratories use differential pressure regulators and
at the bottom of the specimen and the chamber pressure shall transducers to achieve the requirements for small differences between
chamber and back pressure.
not be allowed to exceed the desired effective consolidation
pressure. When the pore pressure at the bottom of the specimen 9.3.4 Measurement of the Pore-Pressure Parameter B—The
stabilizes, proceed with back pressuring of the specimen Pore-Pressure Parameter B is defined by the following equa-
pore-water as described in 9.3.3. To check for equalization, tion:
close the drainage valves to the specimen and measure the pore ∆u
pressure change over a 1-min interval. If the change is less than B5 (3)
∆σ 3
1 % of the chamber pressure, the pore pressure may be
assumed to be stabilized. where:
9.3.1.2 In cases where the vacuum is limited, CO2 can be ∆u = the change in the specimen pore-water pressure that
allowed to seep slowly upward from the bottom of the occurs as a result of a change in the chamber pressure
specimen, while the specimen is being formed or after it has when the specimen drainage valves are closed, and
been confined in the triaxial chamber. The CO2 will displace ∆σ3 = the change in the chamber pressure at the location
the air in the specimen and, being much more soluble in water where it exits the chamber.
than air, will enable subsequent saturation steps to be carried The B-value shall be determined as follows:
out successfully. 9.3.4.1 Close the specimen drainage valves and increase the
9.3.2 Starting with Initially Saturated Drainage System— chamber pressure 70 kPa [10 psi].
After filling the burette connected to the top of the specimen 9.3.4.2 Determine and record the maximum value of the
with deaired water, apply a chamber pressure of 35 kPa [5 psi] induced pore-water pressure. For many specimens, the pore
or less and open the specimen drainage valves. When the pore pressure may decrease after the immediate response and then
pressure at the bottom of the specimen stabilizes, according to increase slightly with time. If this occurs, plot values of ∆u
the method described in 9.3.1, or when the burette reading with time and the asymptotic pore pressure to compute the
stabilizes, initiate back-pressuring of the specimen pore-water. change in pore-water pressure. A large increase in the value of
9.3.3 Applying Back Pressure—Simultaneously increase the ∆u measured with time or measurement of values of ∆u greater
chamber and back pressure in steps with specimen drainage than ∆σ3 indicate a leak of chamber fluid into the specimen or
valves open so that deaired water from the burette connected to pore-water pressure measuring system. Decreasing values of

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 D5311/D5311M − 13
∆u with time may indicate a leak in that part of the pore-water where:
pressure measurement system located outside the chamber. ∆Pc = estimated cyclic load to be applied to the
9.3.4.3 Calculate the B-value using Eq 3. specimen,
9.3.4.4 Reapply the same effective confining pressure σ'3c = consolidation pressure (chamber pressure minus
back pressure),
(chamber pressure minus back pressure) as existed prior to the
SRdesired = desired stress ratio [∆σa]/[2σc'], and
B-value check by reducing the chamber pressure by 70 kPa [10 Ac = area of specimen after consolidation.
psi] or by alternatively increasing the back pressure by 70 kPa
[10 psi]. If the B-value is continuing to increase with increas- 9.5.2 If it does not already exist, form a large air pocket at
ing back pressure, proceed with back pressure saturation. If the the top of the triaxial chamber by draining water from the cell
B-value is equal to or greater than 0.95 or if the B-value versus without allowing the cell pressure to drop. The air pocket is
back pressure plot indicates no further increase in B-value with required so that piston movement in and out of the chamber
increasing back pressure, initiate consolidation. during cyclic loading does not create chamber pressure fluc-
9.3.4.5 During the saturation process, measure the change in tuations. Do not allow water level to drop below the top of the
height of the specimen to the nearest 0.025 mm [0.001 in.]. In specimen.
addition, during saturation apply an axial load to the piston 9.5.3 Close drainage valves to the specimen and cyclically
(that is screwed into the top cap) to compensate for the uplift load the specimen with the first half cycle in compression using
force on the load rod so that the specimen is maintained in an a 0.1 to 2 Hz sinusoidal load form where the stress varies
isotropic or other known state of stress. Calculate the static between peak compression and peak extension values. During
load to maintain an isotropic condition from the following cyclic loading keep the cell pressure constant and record the
equation: axial load, axial deformation, and change in pore-water pres-
sure with time.
P s 5 σ 3 A r 2 M rod2plateng (4)
9.5.4 The load is cycled with the first stress wave being
where: applied in compression.
Ps = the static piston correction load, 9.5.5 The load is cycled until either the cyclic double
Mrod-plateng = weight of the load rod and top platen, amplitude vertical strain exceeds 20 %, the single amplitude
σ3 = the cell pressure, and strain in either extension or compression exceeds 20 %, 500
Ar = the cross sectional area of the load rod.
load cycles or the number of load cycles required in the testing
9.4 Consolidation: program are exceeded, or the load wave form deteriorates
9.4.1 Isotropically consolidate the specimen. beyond acceptable values.
9.4.2 Isotropic consolidation is defined as the state where NOTE 6—Gilbert (4) has found that above 5 % double amplitude strain
the vertical effective consolidation stress (σ'1c) is equal to the in sands a large density redistribution may be observed that makes the
lateral effective consolidation stress (σ'3c). To consolidate the results questionable.
specimen isotropically, maintain the applied back pressure 9.6 Specimen Removal—Following cyclic testing, carefully
constant and increase the chamber pressure until the difference remove the specimen from the triaxial cell so no particles are
between the chamber pressure and the back pressure equals the lost, then dry and determine the mass for dry unit weight
desired consolidation pressure. Apply an axial load to counter- calculations.
balance uplift due to increasing the chamber pressure. This
may require incrementally applying the consolidation pressure 10. Calculation
to provide sufficient time to apply and adjust the counterbal-
ancing uplift load. Measure changes in specimen height during 10.1 To evaluate the test data obtained from the individual
consolidation to the nearest 0.025 mm [0.001 in.], and the cyclic triaxial strength test, it is first necessary to convert the
change in specimen volume to the nearest 0.1 mL. time history of load and deformation to cyclic stress and strain
and to reduce the time history of pore-water pressure to a
9.4.3 Following consolidation, close the drainage valves
convenient form.
and observe the pore-water pressure for a period of time to
verify that no leaks in the membrane or pore-water pressure 10.2 Calculate the cyclic stress, strain and pore-water pres-
system have occurred. If the time for consolidation exceeds 8 sure ratio defined in Fig. 4 using the following relationships:
h, redetermine the B value prior to cyclic loading.
σc = Pc /Ac
9.5 Cyclic Loading: σe = Pe /Ac
9.5.1 Estimate the magnitude of cyclic load to be applied for σa = (σc + σe)/2
the desired stress ratio. The desired stress ratio, SR, is the ratio and:
of the desired deviator stress to double the effective consoli- εc = δc /Hc
dation stress. Accordingly, the magnitude of cyclic load can be εe = δe /Hc
estimated, with the following equation: εda = εc + εe
∆P c 5 2 3 σ' 3c 3 SRdesired 3 A c (5) U = umax/σ3c isotropic

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 D5311/D5311M − 13

umax = maximum excess pore-water pressure induced dur-

ing a cycle, and
σ'3c = effective isotropic consolidation stress.
10.3 Tabulate discrete values of load, deformation, and
pore-water pressure for different cycles of interest and calcu-
late the resulting values of stress, strain, and pore-water
pressure ratio for each cycle. Values of stress and strain shall be
calculated based on consolidated specimen dimensions. Evalu-
ate uniformity of the load trace into the failure state to ensure
that load uniformity criteria presented in previous sections are
achieved. Show this in an appropriate way by calculating the
percent load drift (Perror) using the equation in 6.3.

11. Report: Records

11.1 The methodology used to specify how data are re-
corded on the test data sheet(s)/form(s), as given below, is
covered in 1.6.
11.2 Present sufficient reference data for each test to define
adequately the type of testing equipment used, the character-
istics of the triaxial cell and pore-water pressure monitoring
system, as well as the load repetition rate and load wave form
characteristics, and specimen preparation method. Reference
information required for each test (or for the test series if the
testing procedures are kept constant) is presented in Table 2.
11.3 The time histories or tabular data presentation of Table
3 may be used to plot any of the following curves that have
been found to be useful in evaluating results from individual
tests:
11.3.1 εda versus number of cycles (N),
11.3.2 εc versus N,
11.3.3 εe versus N,
11.3.4 ∆σa versus N,
11.3.5 ∆σc versus N,
11.3.6 ∆σe versus N,
11.3.7 ∆u versus N,
11.3.8 U versus N,
11.3.9 σ3(min)/σ3c versus N, and
FIG. 4 Definition of Measured Load-Deformation Values and Cal- 11.3.10 P error versus N.
culated Stress Strain Values for Cyclic Triaxial Strength Tests 11.3.11 In most cases, Plots 1, 4, 8 and 10 will be adequate
to define specimen behavior in cyclic triaxial strength tests.
11.4 In reporting results of a series of cyclic strength tests
where: for isotropically consolidated specimens, the number of cycles
required for a specimen to reach various values of double
σc = ∆Pc /Ac = peak cyclic stress in compression,
σe = ∆Pe /Ac = peak cyclic stress in extension,
∆Pc = change in peak applied load in compression, TABLE 2 Specimen Information Required for Each Test
∆Pe = change in peak applied load in extension, 1. Project name
Ac = Vc /Hc = area of the specimen after consolidation 2. Boring and sample number
(mean consolidated area), 3. Soil classification and description
σa = average single amplitude cyclic axial stress, 4. Index properties (grain size curve, Atterberg limits, and specific gravity
as a minimum, maximum and minimum densities when available)
6σdc = average single amplitude cyclic deviator stress, 5. Specimen preparation technique used
εc = axial strain in compression, 6. Initial and consolidated diameter, area, and height
εe = axial strain in extension, 7. Initial and consolidated water content
δc = cyclic axial deformation in compression, 8. Initial and consolidated dry unit weight
9. Initial and consolidated relative density (when required)
δe = cyclic axial deformation in extension, 10. Consolidation stresses (σ1c and σ3c )
Hc = height of the specimen after consolidation, 11. Degree of saturation (B values)
εda = double amplitude axial strain, percent, 12. Labeled time history trace of load, deformation, and pore-water
pressure
U = cyclic pore-water pressure ratio,

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 D5311/D5311M − 13
TABLE 3 Typical Table of Dynamic Triaxial Strength Results
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
Cycle Number Maximum Excess Pore Pressure Cyclic Stress Average
Pore Water Ratio Cyclic
Pressure Vertical Stress
∆u max Compression ∆σ c
∆umax U5
σ' 3c Extension ∆σe ∆σ a

(6) (7) (8) (9)

Cyclic Double Cyclic Stress Average Stress Ratio
Vertical Amplitude Ratio To This Cycle
Strain Vertical Strain
Compression ε c ∆σ a
Tension εe CSR 5
εda 2σ' c CSRave

(10) (11)
Percent Difference Observed
from Programmed Load Performance
∆Perror (uniform straining, necking, etc.)

amplitude axial strain are often plotted versus the cyclic stress 12. Precision and Bias
ratio (CSR), calculated as follows:
12.1 Test data on precision is not presented due to the nature
σa of the (insert type—soil or rock, or both) materials tested by
SR 5 (6)
2σ' 3c this test method. It is either not feasible or too costly at this
In this way it is possible to normalize strength values of time to have ten or more laboratories participate in a round-
specimens at a given density tested at a number of confining robin testing program. Also, it is either not feasible or too
pressures. However, values of the cyclic stress ratio (CSR) for costly to produce multiple specimens that have uniform physi-
each loading cycle, shown in Column 8 of Table 3, are not as cal properties. Any variation observed in the data is just as
meaningful as some form of average value that presents, as a likely to be due to specimen variation as to operator or
weighted average, the cyclic stress ratio applied in previous laboratory testing variation.
cycles. Calculate such an average cyclic stress ratio as follows: 12.1.1 Subcommittee D18.09 is seeking any data from the
CSRave 5 S D(
1
m
m

n51
CSRn (7)
users of this test method that might be used to make a limited
statement on precision.
where CSRave is the average cyclic stress ratio up to cycle m 12.2 Bias—There is no accepted reference value for this test
and CSRn is the cyclic stress ratio in the nth cycle. For each method, therefore, bias cannot be determined.
cyclic strength test, the average cyclic stress ratio for initial
liquefaction and for double amplitude strain values of 2.5, 5, 10 13. Keywords
and 20 %. Such data from tests on the same material at the
same density may be combined and plotted as CSR versus N 13.1 consolidated-undrained tests; cohesionless soils; labo-
values, which are commonly called cyclic triaxial test strength ratory tests; liquefaction; triaxial tests
curves. CSRave is needed only when Perror occurs with strain-
ing.

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 D5311/D5311M − 13
REFERENCES

(1) Chan, C. K., “Low Friction Seal System,” Journal of Geotechnical ASTM, Geotechnical Testing Journal, Vol 1, No. 2, June, 1978.
Engineering Division, ASCE, Vol 101, GT4, Sept. 1975. (4) Gilbert, P., “Investigation of Density Variation in Triaxial Test
(2) Silver, M. L., Chan, C. K., Ladd, R. S., Lee, K. L., Tiedmann, D. A., Specimens of Cohesionless Soil Subjected to Cyclic and Monotonic
Townsend, F. C., Valera, J. E., and Wilson, J. H.,“ Cyclic Triaxial Loading,” Tech. Rept. GL-84-10, USA/COE, 1984.
Strength of Standard Test Sand,” Journal of the Geotechnical Engi- (5) Ladd, R. S., “Preparing Test Specimens Using Undercompaction,”
neering Division, ASCE, Vol 102, GT5, May, 1976. ASTM, Geotechnical Testing Journal, ASTM, Vol 1, No. 1, 1978.
(3) Chaney, R., and Mullis, J., “Wet Sample Preparation Techniques,”

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee D18 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (D5311 –
11) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved Nov. 1, 2013.)

(1) Revised 9.5.5.

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