Heating effect on swelling behaviour of expansive soils

Abstract

To minimise potential structural damage to the overlying structures, foundation sites that contain expansive soils need treatment. One of the numerous improvement techniques currently available is thermal stabilisation. In an attempt to enhance the knowledge base on this subject matter, this paper presents the results of a study on the swelling behaviour of two heated expansive soils. The test specimens were heated in a programmable furnace at desired heating rates to desired temperatures. Swelling tests were performed to determine both the amount and rate of swelling. Based on the test results, the effect of heating on swelling behaviour was evaluated and the mechanism of swelling are discussed using the principles of physical chemistry and clay mineralogy. Meanwhile, the engineering significance of the research findings in terms of practical applications of thermal stabilisation are discussed. The findings of this study would provide a database useful for the design of structures that involve cohesive foundation soils using a holistic system approach.

Keywords:

• expansive soils
• thermal stabilisation
• ground improvement