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Advances in Engineering Soil Properties and Testing for Ground Stabilization

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A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Civil Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 October 2024) | Viewed by 15452

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Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Mien Jao

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Guest Editor

Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Lamar University, Beaumont, TX 77705, USA
Interests: soil stabilization and evaluation; dredge material management; foundation systems design; numerical modeling in geotechnical engineering
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Mian C. Wang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, State College, PA 16802, USA
Interests: soil stabilization and evaluation; foundation/wall systems; numerical analysis in geotechnical engineering

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The current technology in ground stabilization/improvement, which includes the mechanical reinforcement and physical-chemical stabilization of local soils, is rapidly advancing. This Special Issue addresses the latest findings on construction methods, analytical approaches, monitoring techniques and testing, as well as characterization methods related to this field of research.

This Special Issue seeks to address recent advances for the following broad topics:

Stabilization using traditional and nontraditional admixtures;
Case studies of ground improvement/stabilization projects;
Identification of unsuitable soils and stabilization methods for ground improvement;
Laboratory and field tests methods on engineering soil properties for improvement/ stabilization;
Environmental issues related to ground improvement/stabilization;
Economic cost analysis and efficacy with different improvement/stabilization methods.

It is our pleasure to invite you to submit manuscripts to this Special Issue. Full papers, technical notes, case studies, communications, and reviews are all welcome.

Prof. Dr. Mien Jao
Prof. Dr. Mian C. Wang
Guest Editors

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

12 pages, 2092 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the Changes in the Strength of Clay Reinforced with Basalt Fiber Using Artificial Neural Network Model

by Yasemin Aslan Topçuoğlu, Zeynep Bala Duranay and Zülfü Gürocak

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(22), 10362; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142210362 - 11 Nov 2024

Viewed by 457

Abstract

In this research, the impact of basalt fiber reinforcement on the unconfined compressive strength of clay soils was experimentally analyzed, and the collected data were utilized in an artificial neural network (ANN) to predict the unconfined compressive strength based on the basalt fiber reinforcement ratio and length. For this purpose, two different lengths of basalt fiber (6 mm and 12 mm) were added to unreinforced bentonite clay at ratios of 0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, and 5%, and unconfined compressive tests were performed on the prepared reinforced clay samples to determine the unconfined compressive strength (q_u) values. The evaluation of the obtained experimental results was carried out by creating ANN models. To validate the prediction capabilities of the ANN, a comparative analysis was performed using linear regression, support vector machines, and Gaussian process regression models. Ultimately, a five-fold cross-validation technique was employed to objectively evaluate the overall performance of the model. The evaluations revealed that the ANN model predictions using data obtained from experimental studies showed the highest accuracy and were in close agreement with the experimental results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Engineering Soil Properties and Testing for Ground Stabilization)

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13 pages, 9816 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Utilization of Stabilized Dredged Material for Coastal Infrastructure: Innovations in Non-Fired Brick Production and Erosion Control

by Thi Thuy Minh Nguyen, Saeed Rabbanifar, Aalok Sharma Kafle, Reid Johnson, Brian Bonner, Dason Fernandez, Fernando Aleman, Jared Defrancis, Chun-Wei Yao, Xianchang Li, Mien Jao and Paul Bernazzani

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(18), 8544; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14188544 - 23 Sep 2024

Viewed by 691

Abstract

The deterioration of dams and levees is an increasing concern for both infrastructure integrity and environmental sustainability. The extensive repercussions, including the displacement of communities, underscore the imperative for sustainable interventions. This study addresses these challenges by investigating the stabilization of dredged material (DM) for diverse applications. Seven mixtures incorporating fly ash, lime, and cement were formulated. The Standard Compaction Test was used to determine optimal density–moisture conditions, which helped with brick fabrication. Bricks were tested for compressive strength over various curing periods, and the durability of the 28-day-cured samples was evaluated by performing water immersion tests following the New Mexico Code specifications. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to assess microstructural bonding. Results confirm that the inclusion of cementitious stabilizers modifies the material’s microstructure, resulting in enhancements of both strength and water resistance. Notably, the stabilized material demonstrates potential for use in non-fired brick manufacturing and as bridge stones for waterway erosion control. This dual-function application offers a sustainable and economically feasible approach to managing dredged materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Engineering Soil Properties and Testing for Ground Stabilization)

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20 pages, 5831 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Dynamic Behavior of Multi-Layered Soil Grounds

by Yong Jin, Sugeun Jeong, Minseo Moon and Daehyeon Kim

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 5256; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14125256 - 17 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 928

Abstract

The ground consists of many layers of soil with different properties. The propagation speed and path of seismic waves are affected by different soil layers. It is necessary to understand that layered soil exhibits different dynamic behaviors and responses under the action of seismic waves. This study utilized weathered soil and silica sand as materials to create multi-layered soil conditions with varying degrees of compaction. By conducting a 1 g shaking-table test on multi-layered soil, the interactions and influences between different soil layers under different earthquake conditions were observed. The approach of our numerical analysis aimed to complement the experimental results and provide an in-depth understanding of the dynamic behavior of multi-layered soil surfaces during seismic events. The acceleration results achieved with the ABAQUS and DEEPSOIL models for multi-layered soil were in good agreement with the experimental results. By comparing the stress–strain curves, the deformation mechanisms under different constitutive models in the numerical analysis were studied. The results of this study show that the amplification effect of seismic waves is related to the number of soil layers and the degree of compaction of the soil layers. This indicates that multi-layered soil ground and the behavior of the soil layers play an important role in the propagation and impact of seismic waves, and this amplification effect is of great significance in the design of actual seismic disaster risk assessments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Engineering Soil Properties and Testing for Ground Stabilization)

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17 pages, 7771 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Rockfill Stabilized-Geosynthetics Reinforced Road Base with Repeated Plate Loading Tests

by Ahmet Demir, Bahadir Ok and Talha Sarici

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 3042; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14073042 - 4 Apr 2024

Viewed by 1246

Abstract

In this study, the performance of unpaved road sections over soft clay soil geosynthetic-reinforced and stabilized with rock fill layer was evaluated using repeated plate loading tests. A total of 10 field tests were carried out using a circular model rigid plate with a diameter of 0.30 m. The parameters investigated included the location and type of geosynthetics and loading conditions (number of loading cycle and traffic loading condition). Based on the test results, the least deformation was observed in the rockfill section. The geocell placed at a depth of one-third thickness of the granular fill layer from the top showed improved performance and was more effective as compared with other geosynthetic reinforcements. However, for granular fill geosynthetic-reinforced or stabilized with rock fill layer, the results demonstrate an improvement in the rutting performance of the pavement and the definite trend of increasing reloading elastic modulus, depending on the traffic loading situation. It has been also observed that the use of geocell or geogrid reinforcement in granular fill layer or more rigid rockfill layer provides an important increase in the modulus improvement ratio (MIR) by at least 36%, 45% and 60% compared to the granular fill section, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Engineering Soil Properties and Testing for Ground Stabilization)

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14 pages, 4874 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Triaxial Test of Coarse-Grained Soils Reinforced with One Layer of Geogrid

by Mindaugas Zakarka, Šarūnas Skuodis and Neringa Dirgėlienė

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(22), 12480; https://doi.org/10.3390/app132212480 - 18 Nov 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1402

Abstract

Geosynthetics play a pivotal role in modern infrastructure projects, with geogrids serving as a common choice for enhancing bearing capacity and reducing soil settlement in road construction. This study investigates the influence of density and uniformity coefficients on geogrid-reinforced sandy and gravelly soils through a series of consolidated drained triaxial tests. The research covers six distinct soil types from Lithuania, each characterized by particle size distribution analysis and classified using various standards. A polyester biaxial geogrid is employed, and test specimens are prepared with and without geogrid reinforcement. Triaxial compression tests are performed at different cell pressures, mirroring real-world conditions in road construction. The results highlight the critical role of cell pressure in the reinforcement effect, with higher pressures reducing the geogrid’s influence. The study also emphasizes the importance of soil type, as gravel soils consistently exhibit higher deviatoric stress than sandy soils. Notably, the geogrid enhances cohesion but reduces the angle of internal friction in most cases. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the intricate interplay between soil properties, geogrid reinforcement, and cell pressure, shedding light on the mechanical behavior of geosynthetic-reinforced soils in road construction applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Engineering Soil Properties and Testing for Ground Stabilization)

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13 pages, 2315 KiB

Open AccessArticle

One-Dimensional Consolidation Properties of Soft Clay under Multi-Stage Loading

by Jiangfeng Wang, Wei Yuan, Xuexuan Yin, Wenjie Li and Xinya Li

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(18), 10340; https://doi.org/10.3390/app131810340 - 15 Sep 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1973

Abstract

The consolidation characteristics of soft clay under multi-stage loading and single-stage loading exhibit significant differences. In order to investigate the consolidation behavior of soft clay under multi-stage loading, one-dimensional oedometer tests were conducted on marine sedimentary soft clay from northern China. The results indicate that the overall time-deformation pattern of multi-stage loading is a cyclic nonlinear extension of that of single-stage loading. The final deformation between multi-stage loading and single-stage loading is approximately equal; however, the consolidation rate of single-stage loading is four times that of multi-stage loading. Furthermore, the coefficient of consolidation (C_v) decreases with increasing stress. Subsequently, the traditional Terzaghi one-dimensional consolidation equation was modified and a consolidation equation suitable for multi-stage loading is proposed in this study. The analysis of engineering applications demonstrates that the traditional theory provides more accurate predictions of consolidation rate and settlement when the load is small. However, when the load is large, the settlement predicted using the Terzaghi one-dimensional consolidation equation may have an error of 0–25% compared to that using the modified equation. The modified Terzaghi one-dimensional consolidation equation provides a more accurate representation of the actual consolidation of soft soil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Engineering Soil Properties and Testing for Ground Stabilization)

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15 pages, 5157 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Compaction Characteristics and Compaction Process of an Unsaturated Silt Based on PFC3D

by Zhitao Ma, Keyu Lu, Daifu Song, Wenhu Liu, Yipeng Wang and Shunhai Li

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(9), 5547; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13095547 - 29 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1425

Abstract

In order to reduce the construction cost of excessively wet silt roadbeds and improve the compaction quality, this paper studies the compaction characteristics and compaction technology of excessively wet silts through theoretical derivation, indoor experiments, numerical simulation, engineering verification, and other research methods. Based on the pendulum-type liquid bridge structure, this paper uses the Hertz–Mindlin theory, particle motion equation of state, and other theories to modify the force between particles of an unsaturated soil. Through the contact angle, which is a medium, the matrix suction is linked to the water content and is used to approximate the water content state of soil samples. Using PFC3D (particle flow code 3D) numerical simulation software, an unsaturated silt model was established based on Hill contact, and the model parameters were calibrated through basic geotechnical tests and triaxial compression tests. The correctness of the theory is verified by comparing the simulated triaxial compression test of wet silts with the indoor test. By simulating subgrade rolling, considering factors such as the distribution of contact force chain and the variation of compaction degree, the effects of rolling times, strong vibration, and weak vibration on the compaction effect were compared and analyzed. Finally, the optimal rolling and compaction process under the optimal water content is obtained through on-site engineering tests. The results show that: (1) The Hill contact model is reasonable for simulating the wet silt. (2) During the simulation of the roadbed compaction process using PFC3D software, it was found that the compaction degree change during the entire compaction process can be roughly divided into the initial compaction stage and the re-compaction stage. The reasonable number of compaction times was determined to be five through discrete element simulation. (3) It is found from the numerical simulation results that compared to static compaction, both strong and weak vibration compaction can effectively improve the compaction effect of subgrade compaction. The larger the vibration amplitude, the more obvious the improvement of the compaction effect. The compaction effect of strong vibration followed by weak vibration is stronger than that of weak vibration followed by strong vibration. (4) The optimal compaction process obtained under the optimal moisture content of 15% is static pressure once + strong vibration twice + weak vibration twice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Engineering Soil Properties and Testing for Ground Stabilization)

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15 pages, 4529 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Experimental Design Methodology to Evaluate the Key Parameters on Dispersion of Carbon Nanotubes Applied in Soil Stabilization

by António Alberto S. Correia, Diogo Figueiredo and Maria G. Rasteiro

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(8), 4880; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13084880 - 13 Apr 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1717

Abstract

The incorporation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in the process of chemical stabilization of soft soil is only possible when they are dispersed adequately in the medium. The maximum compressive strength (q_{u max}) and the secant undrained Young’s modulus (E_{u 50}) are usually used to characterize the behavior of soil stabilized with Portland cement. In the present study, soft soil was additivated with a CNT dispersion prepared in a surfactant solution. This information was then used to produce a model based on an experimental design strategy, which allowed us to relate q_{u max} and E_{u 50} with the CNT concentration and the surfactant hydrodynamic diameter and concentration. The Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression method was selected to perform the regression, given the significant collinearity among the input variables. The results obtained lead us to conclude that the CNT concentration is the most important factor and has a positive impact on the responses (q_{u max} and E_{u 50}). The surfactant concentration and hydrodynamic diameter have a negative impact on the responses, but, curiously, when combined, the impact becomes positive. It means that these variables depend on each other. The results obtained show that it is possible to produce a statistical model for these parameters with good correlation coefficient (R²). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Engineering Soil Properties and Testing for Ground Stabilization)

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11 pages, 1928 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Fiber Reinforced Sustainable Dredge Bricks

by Thi Thuy Minh Nguyen, Saeed Rabbanifar, Zhe Luo, Christopher Huddleston, Trey O’Connor, Adam Richard, Malik Michel, Ryan Moon, Chun-Wei Yao, Mien Jao and Paul Bernazzani

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(2), 789; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13020789 - 5 Jan 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2526

Abstract

To maintain adequate depth of commercial waterways, large quantities of earthen material are dredged and stored on undeveloped placement areas adjacent to the waterway. As dredge placement areas become overwhelmed, an environmental and financial sustainable solution for the reuse of dredged soil is prioritized. In this study, locally dredged material from the Sabine-Neches Waterway was used to explore the potential of dredged material in the production of compressed stabilized earth bricks (CSEBs) for small-scale structures in the region. CSEB mixture designs were developed containing fly ash (FA), Portland cement (PC), hydrated lime (HL), water (W), dredged material (DM), and natural and synthetic fibers. Optimized mixtures designs reached the recommended compressive strength of over 1200 psi. Results showed that that the addition of fibers reduced the compressive and flexural strength of the bricks, with a maximum compressive strength of 1394 psi with a corresponding flexural strength of 381 psi being obtained with fiberless dredge bricks. Multiple coating systems were also tested to increase the resistance of the bricks to weathering and erosion. Results showed that the use of coatings reduced water absorption and increased the bricks resistance to erosion, making them more adept in regions commonly subjected to flooding and heavy wind-driven rains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Engineering Soil Properties and Testing for Ground Stabilization)

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17 pages, 4532 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Dry–Wet Cycling and Temperature on Shear Strength and Microscopic Parameters of Coal Measure Soil

by Gang Huang and Mingxin Zheng

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(1), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13010336 - 27 Dec 2022

Viewed by 1645

Abstract

Exposed coal measure soil (CMS) found in the mountains of Southern China is significantly affected by the seasonal climate, which makes this region prone to frequent shallow landslides. In this regard, very few studies have focused on the shear strength and microscopic characteristics of CMS subjected to dry–wet cycling and temperature. The aim of this study was to experimentally investigate the effects of dry–wet cycling and temperature on shear strength and microscopic parameters of CMS. We carried out an unconsolidated undrained triaxial test and scanning electron microscopy of CMS obtained from the K209 slope on the Chang-li highway. Our results indicated that the soil shear strength and microstructure parameters significantly decreased before three dry–wet cycles. Above 35 °C, the temperature affected mainly the mean fractal dimension. The soil cohesion was negatively correlated with the fractal dimension and positively correlated with the probability entropy. The surface-crack occurred once the stress value of high temperature was greater than 0.57 MPa. Strain-softening, swelling–shrinkage, low soil strength, and high soil temperature formed the main factors underlying rainfall-induced K209 shallow landslides. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Engineering Soil Properties and Testing for Ground Stabilization)

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