Swelling Clays and Pavement Applications: Their Characterizations and Stabilization Using Geosynthetics
December 13, 2015
Swelling Clays and Pavement Applications: Their Characterizations and Stabilization Using Geosynthetics
Abstract: The presence of expansive clays has led to poor performance of flexible pavements, which typically develop significant longitudinal cracks during periods of drought. This presentation includes innovations in: (1) the characterization of expansive clays, and (2) the use of geosynthetics to stabilize pavements where their presence is prevalent.
A novel approach for characterization of the swelling of clays, involving centrifuge technology, has been recently developed. The procedure involves soil samples subjected to water infiltration during comparatively small testing periods. What makes the centrifuge approach special is that the variable of interest (i.e. the vertical rise) is directly measured. The centrifuge approach was found to be well-suited for pavement design because it provides the full relationship between vertical strains and vertical stresses. Consequently, this approach is particularly appropriate for use with the Potential Vertical Raise (PVR) approach.
The second part of the presentation includes the results of a comprehensive research program conducted to assess the use of geosynthetic reinforcements to mitigate pavement problems associated with expansive clays. Specifically, stabilization of the pavement base course has been successfully used by the Texas Department of Transportation. A comprehensive field evaluation was conducted as part of this study, which involved the construction of 32 test sections with multiple types of geosynthetic reinforcement, lime treatment, and control sections. The benefits of using geosynthetic reinforcements were clearly quantified.
Bio: Dr. Jorge G. Zornberg, P.E., is Professor in the Geotechnical Engineering program at the University of Texas at Austin. He earned his B.S. from the National University of Cordoba (Argentina), his M.S. from the PUC of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), and his Ph.D. from the University of California at Berkeley (USA). He served as President of the International Geosynthetics Society (IGS). His research focuses on geosynthetics, soil reinforcement, pavements, and environmental geotechnics. He has authored over 350 technical publications, written a number of book chapters, and been awarded three patents. He received a number of prestigious awards, including the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) awarded by President George W. Bush to Prof. Zornberg in 2002.
