Prediction of compressibility and shear strength behaviour of in-situ cohesive soil from reconstituted clay

Abstract

ABSTRACT In the present study, simplified sample preparation and testing methodology are proposed for reconstituted clay that can predict the strength and deformation behavior of its in-situ state with minimal sample preparation disturbances. Reconstituted clay specimen was prepared in designed mould for each disturbed sample. Later, predetermined proportions of admixtures were mixed to vary the liquid limits. The test results showed that the change in compression index is directly proportional to the change in the liquid limit, moisture content, and the initial void ratio of the soil samples. However, the change in angle of internal friction was inversely proportional to the liquid limit, plasticity index, and clay fraction percentage. Scanning electron microscopy tests provided in-depth insight on the comparable pore and clay flake sizes. The proposed empirical relationships from the test results could reasonably estimate the compressibility and shear strength behavior of the in-situ clay soil from the basic index properties.