Response of Sand at Low Normal Stresses Using Gravity Shear Test

Abstract

AbstractShallow slope failures have been observed due to loss of strength, infiltration of water, climatic factors, etc. Strength properties of near-surface soils, especially at low normal stresses have rarely been studied. Similar problems occur at the interfaces between geosynthetic and soil/backfill in case of MSW (Municipal Solid Waste) disposal site, as for such materials (soils and geosynthetics), shear response of interfaces becomes significant considering the fact that very low normal stresses act along the potential failure plane. The bond strength for such materials is usually measured either by a direct shear test or a tilt test. Gravity-induced shear test is proposed herein to be performed for conditions of low normal stress. In the present study, a new test set-up was developed and tests have been carried on the sand at different normal stress conditions for relative density of 50 and 75%. Response of granular material at very low normal stresses is thus studied and results presented.KeywordsGravity induced shear testShear stress-displacementAngle of shear resistanceLow normal stress