Compaction Characteristics of China Clay–Bentonite–Sand Mix Proportions: Fid-Bau Portal

Compaction Characteristics of China Clay–Bentonite–Sand Mix Proportions

Jyothi, D. N. / Prasanna, H. S. / Vidya, B. V. / Pooja, B. S.

In geotechnical engineering practice, a better understanding of the fundamental behavior of soil will provide a focused insight to begin decisions on new and emerging geotechnologies. Owing to lack of availability of coarse-grained soils, fine-grained soils having different clay mineralogical compositions are being used as an alternative eco-friendly material for construction activities. The engineering behavior of such soils varies significantly due to the presence of kaolinite—the mineral which is least active and montmorillonite—the mineral which is most active in different percentage. To have a general trend behavior of these soils around the globe requires more time and financial implications. As per the present experiment done, we have tried to represent the natural fine-grained soils having clay minerals through artificially prepared soils in the laboratory by preparing a series of mix proportions of china clay–bentonite–sand in varying proportions. The physical properties of the mix proportions were determined as per BIS specifications. IS light and heavy compaction test were conducted on mix proportion akin to standard Proctor and modified Proctor tests. In addition, reduced standard and reduced modified Proctor tests (compacted at 60% of their respective energy level) were performed on the artificially prepared mix proportions. We made an effort to correlate the physical properties of the mix proportions with compaction characteristics. Very useful correlations were also developed between the compaction characteristics of the mix proportions, subjected to varying energy levels and clay mineralogical composition with plasticity characteristics. We also made an effort to compare the compaction characteristics of natural fine-grained soils having the similar composition of fines and clay mineralogy with that of mix proportions.