A Means of Predicting Swelling Pressures of Soils Found in the Rocky Mountain Area.
Abstract
Swelling soils are responsible for considerable damage to structures and significant monetary losses. The ability to predict and quantify this phenomenon has been the basis for much investigation over the last 50 years. To date, no one method has been found which will adequately accomplish this. In this report, the results of historical investigations are briefly summarized, as are the mechanisms which are involved in the swelling process. Based upon these historical results, two methods for examining empirical data are proposed. The first method correlates the swelling pressure to the natural dry density and the liquid limit of the soil. The second method parallels the first, except that the correlation is accomplished using an introduced parameter (plasticity index/percent of soil passing the no. 200 sieve) instead of the liquid limit. An empirical data base from the Rocky Mountain geographical area is examined using these two methods. The data base consists of both clay soils and sedimentary claystones. Predictive equations are deduced for each analysis method. The first method (using the liquid limit) produces better results, and comparisons of predicted versus measured values are presented for this method. A listing of the data used in the analyses is included in this report. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 19, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA087020
Entities
People
- Walter Ernest Heinz