Basics of Geotechnical Laboratory Testing: Index Properties Explained (Ohio Timed & Monitored Video)

In Basics of Geotechnical Laboratory Testing: Index Properties Explained , you'll learn ...

• Laboratory methods used to assess soil behavior and classify materials
• Index testing techniques to interpret results and why we need them
• Moisture content determination, unit weight measurements, sieve analysis, hydrometer, Atterberg limits, and organic content
• Industry standards and best practices to deliver reliable geotechnical solutions

Overview

To meet the Ohio Board's intent that online courses be "paced" by the provider, a timer will be used to record your study time. You will be unable to access the quiz until the required study time of 50 minutes has been met.

Credit: 1 PDH

Duration: 50 minutes

Understanding soil properties is essential for designing safe structures. This course explores laboratory methods used to assess soil behavior and classify materials. Engineers will learn index testing techniques to interpret results and why we need them.

Core topics include moisture content determination, unit weight measurements, sieve analysis, hydrometer, Atterberg limits, and organic content. Each method is important for identifying soil composition, estimating soil properties for engineering design, and predicting performance under load. The course emphasizes industry standards and best practices, preparing professionals to deliver reliable geotechnical solutions.

Ideal for geotechnical, civil, and structural engineers, this course also benefits builders, architects, project managers, QA professionals, academics, and students. Participants will leave equipped with the knowledge and confidence to tackle geotechnical challenges effectively.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Explain the purpose and importance of laboratory soil testing in geotechnical engineering.
• Describe quality-assurance practices for conducting reliable laboratory tests.
• Interpret the use and engineering implications of moisture content, unit weight, Atterberg limits, grain-size distribution, hydrometer, and organic-content tests.
• Explain correlations between index properties and soil behavior, including compressibility and consolidation characteristics.

Certificate of Completion

You will be able to immediately print a certificate of completion after passing a multiple-choice quiz consisting of 10 questions. PDH credits are not awarded until the course is completed and quiz is passed.