1. A multi-component model for expansive soils with different mineral compositions
- Author
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Du, Jiapei, Zhou, Annan, Lin, Xiaoshan, Robert, Dilan J., and Giustozzi, Filippo
- Subjects
Molecular dynamics -- Models ,Strains and stresses -- Models ,Stress relaxation (Materials) -- Models ,Soil mechanics -- Models ,Stress relieving (Materials) -- Models ,Earth sciences - Abstract
The accurate prediction of swelling deformation and(or) swelling pressure if confined for expansive soils is essential for a better design and construction of a geotechnical structure that is built on or in an expansive soil. In this paper, we proposed a new method to quantify the swelling strain and(or) swelling pressure of expansive soils by considering the mineralogical components and their different swelling properties. The proposed multi-component model employs a tandem combination of different sub-molecular oedometers for different minerals, and the total swelling strain of soil was calculated by integrating the swelling strain of each mineral. A linear relationship between potential energy and swelling strain is identified based on molecular dynamics' simulation, which is then incorporated into the diffuse double-layer theory to calculate the relationship between confining pressure and swelling strain for each mineral. The numerical model was then validated by experimental results from the literature, which shows a good agreement with the experimental data in the literature. This model provides a cost-effective way to estimate the swelling behavior of expansive soil. Key words: expansive soil, swelling pressure, swelling strain, mineralogy, molecular simulation, 1. Introduction Expansive soils swell when they encounter water. If the swelling deformation is either completely or partially confined by structures like pavements and foundations, a swelling pressure can be [...]
- Published
- 2023
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