Effect of Geofoam under Strip Footing Rested on Swelling Soil

Abstract

ABSTRACT Swelling soils are considered a highly problematic soil due to the volume change actions. The cyclic heave and settlement of expansive soils could be the main reason for considerable damages to the structures, roads, and highways. Many available methodologies are followed to combat these problems of the swelling soils. This paper presents the results of experimental research which performed to show the efficiency of the (EPS) geofoam layers system as a new technique for controlling the upward movement of structures over swelling soils. The performance of the geofoam layer under the footing at different positions is studied. Geofoam layer has two configurations; flat and ribbed cross-section. Different densities and thicknesses of geofoam are considered in the study. Sand with different thicknesses is placed above swelling soil as a partial replacement under the footing. Their effectiveness of the performance is analyzed and discussed. Test results show a noticeable reduction in heave as a result of using the ribbed geofoam layer and partial replacement by sand above the swelling soil.