Quality Specifications for Slurries Based on Shore Pac^®

Testing of the Shore Pac Slurry

  Slurry Test Report

1.) Marsh Funnel Viscosity (MFV)

This test requires both a Marsh Funnel and a Viscosity Cup. MFV is reported in seconds per quart. The time in seconds for a quart of slurry to pass through the funnel tip is reported as viscosity in seconds per quart. The MFV is very useful in determining the concentration of polymer molecules, and also its ability to stabilize surrounding soils.

2.) pH (potential hydrogen- ion)

Dipping a piece of litmus paper in the slurry and comparing the color change to a standard chart performs this test. The result of this test is reported in a number from 1 to 14. The range for maximum Shore Pac performance is 8-10. This is the level at which polymer molecules can fully hydrate and extend, creating more viscosity. Levels of pH below 6 (acidic) can affect the performance of the Shore Pac slurry and should be adjusted by adding soda ash (Na2CO3) @ 5 lb per 1000 gallons mix water. In addition the Soda Ash Carbonate (CO3=) ion present in 8-10 pH solutions is useful in buffering the slurry against Calcium and Magnesium contamination.

3.) Density

This test is performed with a standard mud balance and is reported as specific gravity, pounds per cubic foot lb/ft3 or pounds per gallon. The lbs per ft3 of Shore Pac slurry should be approximately 64.0. The density may be slightly higher depending on the amount of fine soil particles mixed in the slurry. Shore Pac slurries have the same density as water, specific gravity 1.0 (± 0.05). If the density is outside of this range the Shore Pac polymer concentration could be to low. A viscosity test should be taken to check this.

4.) Sand Content

This test is performed with a standard sand content kit, and the results are reported as percent sand. This test is normally performed at the completion of an excavation and just prior to placing concrete. The sample to be tested should be taken from near the bottom of the excavation. When using Shore Pac slurries the sand content will rarely test over 1.0% sand. Due to its flocculating ability, it drops the sand very quickly and the slurry remains nearly sand free.

When performing the sand content test in the field the addition of hypochlorite (Slurry Buster) solution in place of water to dilute the slurry sample can prevent the accumulation of silt, which creates false sand reading in the test.