Soil laboratory testing
Is the soil suitable as fill or subgrade, and what compaction reference should the site work to? We determine its plasticity, grading and classification in our laboratory and provide the Proctor and CBR values.
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We test soil samples from site investigations, borrow pits and earthworks in our laboratory, covering index properties, classification and compaction characteristics. Our technical lead’s doctoral research focused on statistical modelling of the plasticity of Cypriot clayey soils, so we know the local materials well.
What we test
| Test | Standard | Where | What you get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water content and bulk density | TS EN ISO 17892-1:2014+A1:2022 TS EN ISO 17892-2:2014 | Lab | Water content and bulk density of each sample |
| Particle density | TS EN ISO 17892-3:2016 | Lab | Particle density value |
| Particle size distribution by sieving | TS EN ISO 17892-4:2016 | Lab | Grading curve |
| Atterberg limits: liquid limit and plastic limit | TS EN ISO 17892-12:2018+A2:2022 | Lab | Liquid limit, plastic limit and plasticity data |
| Linear shrinkage | BS 1377-2:2022 | Lab | Linear shrinkage value (volume change on drying) |
| Soil classification | TS EN ISO 14688-2:2018 | Lab | Soil class of each sample |
| Proctor compaction and CBR | TS EN 13286-2:2013 TS EN 13286-47:2021 | Lab | Compaction curve with MDD and optimum water content; CBR value |
Why it matters
Plasticity and grading control how a soil responds to changes in water content, how it compacts and whether it is suitable as fill or subgrade, which is particularly important for the clayey soils widespread in Cyprus. The Proctor test provides the maximum dry density and optimum water content used as the reference for field compaction control, while CBR gives the bearing ratio used in pavement design. Linear shrinkage adds information on the tendency of clayey soils to change volume on drying.
What you receive
- Test report for each test according to the relevant standard
- Sample identification by borehole, trial pit or source, with depth where applicable
- Grading curves, plasticity data and soil classification
- Proctor compaction curve and CBR results for design and site control
What we need from you
- A site plan or list of sample locations (borehole, trial pit or borrow source), with depths where applicable
- The tests you need, or the specification or design requirements the soil must meet
- Enough material for each test; we confirm the quantity needed when quoting
- Site access and a contact person on site if we take the samples
- Your programme, so we can plan sample delivery and site sampling around it
Frequently asked questions
Which tests show whether a soil is suitable as fill or subgrade?
Plasticity (Atterberg limits) and grading, summarised in the soil classification, show how the soil responds to water and how it compacts; linear shrinkage adds its tendency to change volume on drying. The Proctor test then gives the maximum dry density and optimum water content used as the reference for field compaction control, and CBR gives the bearing ratio for pavement design.
Do you take the samples, or should we deliver them?
Both are possible: we take samples on site, or you can deliver them to our laboratory. We confirm the quantity needed when quoting; our field work hours are 08:00–18:00.
How long do the results take?
Sieve analysis and Atterberg limits usually take 3–5 working days. Proctor and CBR usually take 5–7 working days, because the CBR test includes soaking.
How can I check that a report is genuine?
Every report carries a QR code, a report number and a verification code. Anyone can check it on our Verify a Report page.
Guides for this service
- Proctor, CBR and water content tests
- Atterberg limits and plasticity index of clay soils
- Ground in Cyprus: Marl and Expansive Clay
Ask us for a quote for soil laboratory testing; we plan sample delivery and site sampling around your programme.