Physical Properties of Composted Materials Mixed with Sand

? The end product from the Portage, Wisconsin cocomposting facility is a loose, dark brown, organic material containing small fragments of glass, rubber, metal, plastics, and other materials that are resistant to decomposition. A research program was completed to determine the suitability of the compost for use in highway embankments or other engineered fills. Standard Proctor tests were conducted to determine the maximum density and optimum water content of the compost-sand mixtures. Direct shear tests were conducted on specimens compacted at maximum density and optimum water content. The cocomposted material mixed with sand proved to have sufficient shear strength for use in embankment construction.