Critical moisture content as an index of compactibility of agricultural soils in borno state of Nigeria

The critical moisture content for compaction of different soils in borno State was determined using the standard proctor compaction test. Our data indicated that for a given soil, the resultant bulk density is a function of the soil's moisture content and the compactive effort applied. This relationship between bulk density, compactive effort and moisture content was mathematically described. At a given compactive effort, the critical moisture content could be calculated from the derived equations. To define and calculate compactibility and critical indexes of the soils, the method of SOEHNE (1958) was used. The practical use of the indexes in agricultural practices was discussed. © 1989.