Investigating Soil Compaction Characteristics of Lateritic Soils in Gwagwalada Area Council, Abuja

Quality Control and Reliability Quality control measures were implemented throughout sample collection, preparation, and laboratory testing to ensure data reliability and reproducibility. Soil samples were collected at consistent depths (0.5–1.0 m) to minimize variability due to surface contamination and organic matter. Laboratory procedures strictly followed ASTM D698 and AASHTO T99 standards to ensure uniform compactive effort across all trials. All weighing instruments were calibrated prior to testing, and moisture content determinations were carried out using standardized oven-drying procedures at 105 ± 5 °C for 24 hours. Each compaction trial was conducted using the same mold, rammer, and compaction energy to maintain consistency. Data calculations for bulk density, dry density, and moisture content were cross-checked to minimize computational errors. The consistency of results was further validated by comparing the obtained Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) and Maximum Dry Density (MDD) values with published data on Nigerian lateritic soils, confirming the reliability of the experimental outcomes.