Compaction
Its the process by which the porosity of soil is decreased by applying pressure on the soil. Minerals of soil squeezes together under the stress which result in increase of density.
1- It is a instant process, it can be used for all type of soil.
2- It is an artificial process.
3- Dynamic loads by rapid mechanical methods like tamping, rolling and vibration are applied for a small interval in soil compaction.
4- In compaction, soil changes from partially to fully saturation condition.
5- Compaction is due to expulsion and compression of air in soil mass under short duration by moving or vibratory loads.
6- Dry density of soil increases but water content will remains same.
Consolidation
Consolidation is a process by which soil decrease in volume. According to the “father of soil mechanics”, Karl von Terzaghi, consolidation is “any process which involves a decrease in water content of saturated soil without replacement of water by air” In simple words “Compaction is without saturation of soil and Consolidaton can only be achieved by saturation of soil”
1- It is a slow process, it can be used for only clayey type of soil.
2- It is a natural process.
3- Static and sustained loading is applied for a long interval in soil consolidation.
4- In consolidation, soil remains in fully saturation condition.
5- Consolidation is due to expulsion of pore water from voids under steady, static,long term load.
6- Dry density of soil increases but water content will decreases.
