Journal Published Online: 01 March 2012
Volume 35, Issue 3

Apparatus for Constant Rate-of-Strain Consolidation of Slurry Mixed Soils

CODEN: GTJODJ

Abstract

A constant rate-of-strain (CRS) consolidation apparatus was developed to allow testing of slurry mixed soils prepared within 102-mm (4-in) inner diameter acrylic columns with varying lengths using a laboratory mixing apparatus. The laboratory mixing apparatus was previously developed to mimic the mixing process associated with the use of slurries containing bentonite and granular zero-valent iron (ZVI) for in situ remediation at sites contaminated with chlorinated solvents. Example consolidation results are provided for specimens of dry sand mixed with bentonite-ZVI slurry with lengths of 305 mm (12 in), 457 mm (18 in), or 610 mm (24 in). After mixing, all of the specimens except for the 610-mm specimen were consolidated directly within the same columns to minimize sampling disturbance. The 610-mm specimen was sectioned into thirds before consolidation testing to evaluate effects of vertical heterogeneity. As expected, all specimens were highly compressible, with maximum (large) strains ranging from 10.7 % to 48.0 %. For specimens prepared and tested within the same columns, the effects of differences in column length and strain rate were minor. The CRS testing apparatus offered a convenient, rapid (< 3 day), and economical approach for evaluating the consolidation behavior of the bentonite-ZVI slurry mixed sand.

Author Information

Sample, Kristin
Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Fort Collins, CO, US
Shackelford, Charles
Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Fort Collins, CO, US
Pages: 11
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: GTJ103787
ISSN: 0149-6115
DOI: 10.1520/GTJ103787