GeotechnicalThe geotechnical engineering component of this laboratory is intended to provide students with an understanding of the characteristics and variability of soil properties. As future engineers, our students must know how the materials affect the design process, and must be able to adapt their designs accordingly.
The laboratory also has the capability for conducting tests on portland cement concrete - both fresh and hardened - and hot-mix asphalt. The objectives of the concrete and asphalt labs are for students to become familiar with the types of testing they may encounter on a construction site, and to learn the terminology in order to communicate effectively with lab and field technicians conducting the tests. The capabilities of the laboratory are increasing each year.
MSU has developed an excellent relationship with Mn/DOT's District 7, and especially their materials laboratory staff. Students in the CIVE 436 - Experimentation II class go to the D7 lab at least two times during the semester to conduct lab testing of hot-mix asphalt materials. Students conduct Superpave gyratory compaction, maximum specific gravity, asphalt cement content by ignition and solvent extraction, and are provided with background on the laboratory accreditation process through AMRL.
