Compaction quality control ensures that earthwork operations achieve the required bearing capacity. Insufficient compaction leads to settlement, building cracks, and road damage. In German road construction, the ZTV E-StB (Additional Technical Contractual Conditions for Earthwork) serves as the standard specification.
Classical testing methods include the plate load test (static, per DIN 18134), the light falling weight test (dynamic, faster), and dynamic probing. The degree of compaction is expressed as the ratio of achieved dry density to Proctor density — typically required: ≥97 % for subgrade, ≥100 % for base course.
Modern approaches employ continuous dynamic compaction monitoring (CDCM): sensors integrated in the roller measure soil stiffness during each pass and create a comprehensive compaction map. BOMAG (Evib), Hamm (HCQ), and Ammann (ACEforce) offer such systems. The data is stored with GPS reference and serves as proof of performance for the client.