Effect of 'K' Value and Mode of Inundation on Collapsing Characteristics of an Egyptian Soil

摘要

The Phenomenon of collapse is one of the important problems encountered by geotechnical engineers in many areas of the world, particular in arid and semi- arid areas. This paper is conceded with the study of the effect of varying "K" value ( lateral pressure ratio) on the collapse potential, shear strength characteristics and permeability coefficient for an Egyptian collapsing soil. Ninety undisturbed samples from an Egyptian collapsing soil were tested in the oedometer and triaxial apparatus at different inundation pressures The mode of inundation is also considered in the testing procedures. The test results indicated that, the lower "K" value, the higher value of collapse potential at the same inundation pressure and the lower value of shear strength. The mode of inundation is significant on the collapse potential. Inundation from top gives the least value of collapse, whereas inundation from bottom using back pressure gives high values of collapse. The coefficient of permeability in the vertical direction is also increases as "K" value increases.