Determination of the intact dry density of irregular chalk lumps: a new method

A simple, accurate and reliable method of measuring intact dry density (IDD) on small samples of chalk is described. The method proposed employs wax-sealing and water displacement in a eureka pot and is compared with five other methods, including that recommended in the British Standard. The method of laboratory measurement proposed is capable of achieving an accuracy of ±0.025 mg/m 3 , which is necessary in order to distinguish small scale natural density variations. These density variations can also be detected qualitatively with simple techniques, i.e. a geological pick.