SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1982
STP28919S

Brittle Behavior of a Varved Clay During Triaxial Undrained Shear Strength Tests

Source

The brittle behavior aspects of the undrained shear strength of a varved clay deposited in a glacial-era lake are presented. The cause of the brittle behavior is surmised to be calcareous in nature. The calcareous material is an integral part of the natural soil structure. The influences of rate of strain, relative level of consolidation stress during shear in comparison with the consolidation stress, specimen quality, and mode of loading are illustrated by diagrams of shear strength versus mean effective stress (q-p) paths. The undrained shear strength to consolidation stress (c/p) ratio varies systematically. The brittle behavior is less prominent during laboratory shear strength testing, when the soil's natural structure is disturbed. The correlation of laboratory-measured undrained shear strength with field-measured vane shear strength values is presented.

Author Information

Bemben, SM
Goldberg-Zoino and Associates, Inc., Newton Upper Falls, Mass
Price: $25.00
Contact Sales
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Developed by Committee: D18
Pages: 252–276
DOI: 10.1520/STP28919S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-4842-0
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-0787-8