Direct Shear Test

Direct Shear Test
The Direct Shear Test is a fundamental laboratory test used to assess soil shear strength characteristics, including cohesion and angle of internal friction. This test, performed in accordance with ASTM D3080 or BS 1377-7, includes applying a horizontal force to a prepared soil specimen while maintaining a constant vertical load until failure. The collected data aids in understanding how soil responds under shear stress, which is an important factor in foundation, slope stability, and retaining wall design. Direct shear testing is particularly useful for coarse-grained soils, when rapid and trustworthy findings are required. This test provides practical insights into the mechanical behavior of soil by imitating real-world slide failures.

Advantages of Direct Shear Test:

• Directly measures shear strength parameters.
• Suitable for the fast examination of granular soils.
• Essential for slope stability and foundation design.
• Offers insight into cohesion and internal friction angle.
• Simple and cost-effective testing procedures
• Generally acknowledged in geotechnical engineering practice
• Helps analyze retaining wall backfill materials.