Simple Evaluation of the Influence of an Inert Additive on the Swelling Characteristics of Clay Soil

Abstract

In this study, an experimental investigation carried out to assess the performance of addition of an inert material on stabilization of an expansive soil in order to solve the lifting structures caused by this phenomenon. The results showed that an addition of glass is capable of reducing the actions of swelling. From the global analysis of the porosity using an ultrasonic device, we measure the propagation velocities of ultrasonic pulse through the tested clay samples. This reveals a change occurring in the porosity of the clay when glass is added to it. As a result some interesting conclusions concerning the expansive soil-material amendment are drawn.

Keywords

• clay
• swelling
• glass
• soil-additive