Constant Rate of Strain Consolidation Equipment and Procedure for Stabilized Soils

Abstract

Abstract Stiffness, that is, the relationship between applied stress and resulting strain, is a function of applied stress and, in the case of stabilized soils, age. For that reason the standard odometer test may be unsuitable as it can take several days to complete a test and in that time the stiffness will change regardless of stress changes. The constant rate of strain consolidation (CRS) test may be the preferred test to assess the stiffness of stabilized soils. A simple CRS cell has been developed to operate with a standard triaxial loading frame. Comparisons between the results of oedometer tests and CRS tests show that the test procedure and equipment is valid. Tests on stabilized soils show the importance of minimizing the time of a test since there is an increase in stiffness with age.