Journal Published Online: 16 January 2020
Volume 43, Issue 6

A Rapid Method of Determination of Swell Potential and Swell Pressure of Expansive Soils Using Constant Rate of Strain Apparatus

CODEN: GTJODJ

Abstract

Swell potential and pressure of expansive soils are conventionally determined using an oedometer apparatus. The specimens are commonly saturated by submerging in water under a seating pressure. Generally, the test takes a long time, as the saturation process is slow. This article presents an improved saturation method by back pressure application in a constant rate of strain (CRS) loading apparatus. Controlled strain loading (CSL) was adopted to bring back the swollen specimens to their initial thickness instead of conventional incremental loading. It is observed that the time taken to complete the test is 7 to 13 times faster compared to the conventional method. When compared to the conventional method, the swell potential and pressure values obtained with the back pressure saturation were found to be higher by about 19 % to 34 % and 6 % to 28 %, respectively. The reason for these higher values is attributed to the attainment of greater saturation using the back pressure saturation technique.

Author Information

Kumar, T. Ashok
Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
Raheena, M.
Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, Punjab, India
Robinson, R. G.
Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
Thyagaraj, T.
Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
Pages: 11
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: GTJ20180414
ISSN: 0149-6115
DOI: 10.1520/GTJ20180414