A review of modern particle sizing methods

The methods routinely used for the determination of particle-size distribution of soils were introduced about a century ago and have changed little in the intervening period. In other areas, such as chemical and process engineering and sedimentology, there has been considerable development of automated apparatus. This paper presents a critical review of the available methods of determining particle-size distribution. The authors then assess the potential for the replacement of current methods with new technology by applying these methods to a range of synthetic and natural soils, and draw conclusions.