<p><p><strong>Reference(s):</strong></p><p><em>Consoli et al. (1998a)<br>Consoli et al. (2003)</em></p><p><strong>Method Summary</strong></p><p>The plate load test uses a steel bearing plate and a hydraulic jack to apply a known load then measure the resulting surface deflection. Comparing the load-settlement curves before and after the fiber reinforcement, an improvement factor can be defined. A unique relationship between the applied pressure and the normalized settlement with diameter/width exists even if different plate diameters are used (Consoli et al. 1998a). From a plate load test, the modulus of elasticity and modulus of subgrade reaction can be determined. These two properties correlated to resilient modulus and CBR.</p><p><strong> </strong><strong>Accuracy and Precision</strong></p><p>Plate load tests are an accurate and precise procedure to determine the strength and elasticity of a soil or pavement system.</p><p><strong> </strong><strong>Adequacy of Coverage</strong></p><p>Frequency of testing should be related to the uniformity of ground conditions.</p><p><strong> </strong><strong>Implementation Requirements </strong></p><p>Some experience and special equipment is necessary. It is relatively expensive to perform.</p></p>