Sand Shear Strength as Function of Geofiber Stabilization

Abstract

In order to use Abu Dhabi sand for pavement base courses, subbase courses, subgrades, and as a foundation soil, it must possess special shear strength characteristics. The stabilization of this kind of sand is a major geotechnical task. The soil in this study was improved by mixing geofiber and fines with sand. Large direct shear tests were performed on three different groups of soil to determine the shear strength characteristics of the stabilized soil. The three types of soil studied were: (1) Abu Dhabi sand with different geofiber amount, (2) Abu Dhabi sand with different fines content, and (3) Abu Dhabi sand with different fines and geofiber content. Testing was performed on sand with a water content of 7%, geofiber contents of 0% (no additives), 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.4%, as well as fines contents of 10%, 20%, and 30%. Results of experimental studies can be seen in Figures (6)-(8). The best results of shear strength were obtained when 20% of the fines content and 0.4% of the geofiber content were added. The angle of internal friction increased from 34o if fines or geofiber were not included to 45o with 20% fines content and 0.4% geofiber content