Classification, soil-water characteristic curve and swelling/collapse behaviour of the Nicosia marl, Cyprus

Abstract

The city of Nicosia in the island of Cyprus is situated on a sedimentary basin, the surface layers of which are dominated by an expansive clayey soil called Nicosia marl. The high potential for volume change of this soil due to the seasonal changes of water content is the leading cause of foundation related damage to the buildings and infrastructure of the city. This paper presents preliminary results of a study focusing on the investigation of the Nicosia marl mechanical characteristics pertaining to moisture changes. Samples of Nicosia marl were collected from a borehole and a trial pit in the University of Cyprus campus. The pit which was subsequently used for installing an in-situ array of sensors monitoring suction and volumetric water content at depths inside the active zone. The Soil-Water Characteristic Curve (SWCC) was measured in the laboratory for the entire range of degree of saturation. The potential of swelling/collapse at various values of vertical stress was studied through a series of oedometer tests.