Difference Between Compaction and Consolidation

Difference Between Compaction and Consolidation Difference Between Compaction and Consolidation is defined in terms of the objective, time frame, effects on soil structure etc.. Compaction refers to the process of mechanically reducing the volume of soil by removing air and increasing its density. Consolidation, on the other hand, refers to the gradual settlement of soil or sediment over time due to the expulsion of water from its void spaces. Objective: The main goal of compaction is to increase the density of soil by reducing its void spaces and eliminating air gaps. Consolidation aims to address the settlement of saturated soil by allowing excess water to drain out and causing the soil particles to reposition themselves. Effects on soil structure: Compaction rearranges soil particles, causing them to come closer together and reducing the soil's overall porosity. Consolidation primarily affects the water content and pore water pressures within the soil, causing changes in it...