Which type of soil compaction method is typically optimal for cohesive soils?

The sheepsfoot roller is particularly effective for cohesive soils due to its unique design and functionality. The feet on the roller penetrate the surface of the soil, providing both vertical pressure and lateral shear forces to enhance the compaction process. This is especially important for cohesive soils, which tend to be sticky and have a higher moisture content, making them more challenging to compact effectively.

The design of the sheepsfoot roller allows for deep penetration into the soil layers, which helps to break down any clumps and distribute the forces evenly across the material. This method is beneficial in achieving a denser packing of cohesive soils compared to other compaction methods. The effectiveness of this type of roller in managing water content and achieving optimal density makes it a preferred choice when working with clay and other cohesive soil types.