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Precautions in sampling and storage

Short answer

During sampling, clean the borehole, use a good-geometry sampler, push smoothly without hammering, keep the hole full below the water table, and twist to cut off. For transport, seal tube ends with wax, label, keep vertical, cushioned, and avoid shock. Store in a cool, humid room away from sun and test as soon as possible.

Explain the various precautions to be taken during the sampling, transportation and storage of the sample.

During sampling

  • Clean the borehole bottom of loose soil and use a sampler with good geometry (small area ratio, correct clearances).
  • Push the sampler slowly and smoothly (not hammered) in soft soils; do not rotate it.
  • Keep the borehole full of water/drilling mud when below the water table to avoid heave.
  • Leave the sampler for a short time and then twist to cut off the base before withdrawing.

Transportation

  • Seal the ends of the tube with wax, cap them, and label (project, borehole, depth, top/bottom, date).
  • Keep the tubes vertical (top up), pack in sawdust/cushion and avoid vibration, shock and heat.

Storage

  • Store in a cool, humid room without freezing or drying, away from direct sun.
  • Test as soon as possible (ideally within 2-3 weeks) and keep the extrusion in the direction of sampling.
  • Protect disturbed samples in airtight bags or jars to preserve moisture content.

✓ Answer checked by Claude Sonnet 5.5

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