The most common laboratory test for soil compaction is the Proctor compaction test. The Proctor test was invented in the 1930s by R. R. Proctor, a field engineer for the Bureau of Waterworks and Supply, in Los Angeles, California.

What is compaction theory?

Compaction of soil is measured in terms of the dry density achieved. Dry density is weight of soil solid per unit of total volume of the soil mass. Proctor showed that compaction depends upon (i) moisture content (ii) type of soil and (iii) compaction effort.

What is responsible for Soil Compaction?

Soil compaction occurs when soil particles are pressed together, reducing pore space between them (Figure 1). ... A compacted soil has a reduced rate of both water infiltration and drainage. This happens because large pores more effectively move water downward through the soil than smaller pores.