Constant Rate of Strain Cell

This test method allows determining the magnitude and rate-of-consolidation of saturated cohesive sediments using continuous controlled-strain axial compression. The specimen is restrained laterally and drained axially to one surface. The axial force and base excess pressure are measured during the deformation process. This test provides for the calculation of total and effective axial stresses, and axial strain from the measurement of axial force, axial deformation, chamber pressure, and base excess pressure. This test allows the calculation of the coefficient of consolidation and the hydraulic conductivity throughout the loading process.