Evaluating the constrained modulus and collapsibility of loess from standard penetration test

FRANCISCA, FRANCO MATÍAS

International Journal of Geomechanics ASCE

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)

Lugar: Reston, Virginia, USA; Año: 2007 vol. 7 p. 307 - 310

1532-3641

Argentinean loess has mechanical properties highly dependent on moisture content. Sand and silt particles jointed by clay bridges and precipitated salts form macropores which undergo high volume decrease when loaded or wetted. The constrained deformation modulus is an important parameter for the assessment of settlement and to characterize loessical formations. This work analyzes experimental results obtained in double-oedometer test and Standard Penetration Tests (SPT) performed in silty loess. Typical behaviors observed in double-oedometer test are related to the decrease of soil modulus, collapsibility, cementation and presence of disseminated cementing nodules. Correlations between the constrained modulus, collapsibility and the blow count form SPT are presented. The influence of disseminated nodules, moisture content and collapsed soil structure on the constrained modulus and collapsibility of loess is highlighted