ADDIS ABABA UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES FACULITY OF TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTEMMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

Investigation of Index properties and swelling potential of

expansive soils in Lege Tafo area

A Thesis submitted to the school of graduate studies of Addis

Ababa University in partial fulfillment of the Requirement of
the Degree of Master of Science in Civil Engineering
(Geotechniques)

Saba Mesfin

Advisor: Samuel Tadesse (PhD)

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

May 2019
 Acknowledgment

I would like to thank sincerely my advisor Dr.Ing. Samuel Tadess for all his
guidance and advice throughout my research work.

And also I would like to thank Addis Ababa University for giving me a
chance to pursue my graduate study.

Finally I would like to thank my family, friends and all who supported me in
the course of this study.
 Table of Contents

Contents Pages

Acknowledgement----------------------------------------------------------------- I
List of Tables -------------------------------------------------------------------- II
List of Figures -------------------------------------------------------------------- III
List of Symbols ------------------------------------------------------------------- IV
Abstract --------------------------------------------------------------------------- V
CHAPTER 1
Introduction ------------------------------------------------------------- --------- 1
1.1. General ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 1

1.2. Objectives------------------------------------------------------------------ 2
2
1.2.1. General objectives --------------------------------------------------
2
1.2.2. Specific objectives --------------------------------------------------

1.3. Methodology ------------------------------------------------------------ 2

1.4. Scope of the study ---------------------------------------------------------- 4

1.5. Organization of the thesis------------------------------------------------ 4

CHAPTER 2
Literature Review ----------------------------------------------------------------- 6
2.1. General ----------------- --------------------------------------------------- 6

2.2. Origin of Expansive Soils-------------------------------------------------- 7

2.3. Formation of clay minerals ----------------------------------------------- 7

2.4. Identification of swelling soils ----------------------------------------- 8

2.4.1. The mineralogical identification ---------------------------------- 8

2.4.2. The Indirect methods ---------------------------------------------- 10

2.4.3. The direct measurement ------------------------------------------ 17

2.5. Factors influencing swelling and shrinking of a soil----------------- 18

2.5.1. The soil characteristics------------------------------------------ 18

2.5.1.1. The microscale factors --------------------------------------------- 19

2.5.1.2. The macroscale factors --------------------------------------------- 20

2.5.2. Environmental factors -------------------------------------------- 20

2.5.3. Stress condition----------------------------------------------------- 21

2.6. Unconfined compression Test-------------------------------------------- 22

CHAPTER 3
DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA
3.1. The Project area ---------------------------------------------------------- 24

3.2. Topography characteristics ---------------------------------------------- 25

3.3. Climate characteristics ---------------------------------------------------- 26

CHAPTER 4
SAMPLING AND LABORATORY TESTS
4.1. Sampling -------------------------------------------------------------- 29

4.2. Laboratory tests and discussion -------------------------------------- 30

4.2.1. Grain size distribution analysis ------------------------------------- 31

4.2.2. Natural moisture content --------------------------------------------- 34

4.2.3. The index property ---------------------------------------------------- 35

4.2.3.1. Atterberg limit test------------------------------------------------- 35

4.2.3.2. Liquid limit -------------------------------------------------------- 36

4.2.3.2. Plastic limit -------------------------------------------------------- 36

4.2.4. Specific gravity test----------------------------------------------------- 37

4.2.5. Free swell--------------------------------------------------------------- 39

4.2.6. Dry density-------------------------------------------------------------- 39

4.3. Classification of the soils

42
4.3.1. Unified Soil Classification System------------------------------
43
4.3.2. AASHTO Classification System ---------------------------------
43
4.3.3. The Van Der Merwe Method --------------------------------------

4.4. Unconfined compression test-------------------------------------- 45

4.5. Consolidation and Swelling pressure tests ------------------------ 47

4.5.1. Consolidation test--------------------------------------------------- 47

4.5.2. Swelling pressure --------------------------------------------------- 51

CHAPTER 5

DISCUSSION OF LABORATORY TEST RESULTS

5.1. Discussions of Test Results ------------------------------------------ 54
5.1.1. Grain size analysis ---------------------------------------------------- 54
5.1.2. Natural moisture content and initial dry density Test—--------- 55
5.1.3. Atterberge limit tests ------------------------------------------------- 56
5.1.4. Specific Gravity test-------------------------------------------------- 57
5.1.5. Free Swell-------------------------------------------------------------- 57
5.2. Swell consolidation test ------------------------------------------------ 57
5.2.1. Swelling pressure and natural moisture content and dry density 58
5.3. Relationship between different soil properties of the study area--- 59

6. Conclusions and Recommendations --------------------------------------- 61

6.1 Conclusions --------------------------------------------------------------- 61

6.2 Recommendations------------------------------------------------------------- 62

7. References ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 63
 List of Tables
Table 2.1: Ranges of grain size analysis based on ASTM----------------- 10
Table 2.2: Expansive soil classification based on plasticity------------- 12
------------------
Table 2.3: Specific gravities of soil ------------------------------------------ 13
--------
Table 3.1. Monthly climate of Addis Ababa ------------------------------- 21
------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 3.2. Mean monthly Temperature of Addis Ababa ---------------- 22
-------------------------
Table 4.1: Location of Sample Areas----------------------------------------- 23
-------------------------
Table 4.2: Summary of grain size analysis based on ASTM-------------- 27
-----------------
Table 4.3: Natural Moisture Content ---------------------------------------- 28
-------------------
Table 4.4: Attergerge limit----------------------------------------------------- 29
------------------
Table 4.5: Specific gravity ---------------------------------------------------- 30
-------------------
Table 4.6: Free Swell Test Result -------------------------------------------- 31
-------------------
Table 4.7: Dry Density test result ------------------------------------------- 32
-------------------
Table 4.8: USCS classification of Lege Tafo soil samples----------------- 34
------------------
Table 4.9: Degree of Colloidal activity----------------------------------- --- 36
----------------
Table 4.10: UCS test result --------------------------------------------------- 38
------------------
Table 4.11: Summary of consolidation test result------------------------- 40
-----------------
Table 4.12: Swelling Pressure Test Results of Lege Tafo area----------- 44
-------- -----------
Table 5.1: Index property Test Results ------------------------------------ 50
---------
--------
 List of Figures

Fig 2.1: Atterberg limits illustration------------------------------------ 9

--------------
Fig 3.1: Location of Lege tafo area--------------------------------------- 19
-------------
Fig 4.1: Location of test sample taken---------------------------------- 24
----------------
Fig 4.2: Grain size distribution curve --------------------------------- 26
-----------------
Fig 4.3: Grain size distribution curve --------------------------------- 26
-----------------
Fig 4.4: Typical water content against log of number of blows----- 29
---------------
Fig 4.5: Plasticity chart of soil in the study area (USC) ----------- 34
---------------
Fig 4.6: Plasticity chart of soil in the study area (AASHTO) ------ 35
--------------
Fig 4.7: Activity Chart----------------------------------------------------- 37
------
Fig 4.7: Typical consolidation test result ------------------------------ 43
----------------
Fig 4.8: Typical swell consolidation test result------------------------ 45
----------------
Fig 5.1: Swelling Pressure and Natural Moisture Content and Dry 49
Density t----------------------------------------
 Symbols and Abbreviations

AASHTO American association of state highway and transport official

American Society for Testing and Materials
ASTM Potential Volume Change
PVC Specific gravity of solids
Gs Swelling pressure
Sp Plasticity index
PI Shrinkage limit
SL Dry density
γd Liquid limit
LL Plastic limit
PL Free swell
Fs Equation
Eqn Activity
Ac Cation Exchange Capacity
CEC United states bureau of public roads classification
U.S.B.R Test pit
T.P
 Abstract

This Study is conducted on Lege Tafo area which is located on flat plain just
east of Addis Ababa City. The area is covered with thick clay soil and new
infrastructures are under construction in the region as part of the fast
growing urbanization and industrial development around Addis Ababa and
this is one of the reasons why the area is selected for the study.

The objective of this research is to understand the nature of the soil and
obtain sufficient information on type and characteristics of the soil in the
area to provide general data for future construction projects. To achieve
these objectives the surrounding of Lege Tafo is studied in the field, and
representative clay soil samples are collected and analyzed in the laboratory.

Black soils in Ethiopian are derived from weathering of basalt volcanic rocks
and are invariably clays or silty clays. Natural deposits of black cotton soils
in the field are characterized by a general pattern of surface cracks during
the dry season of the year. During wet seasons, the soil first expands
horizontally, filling up the shrinkage cracks. Further volumetric expansion
causes vertical heaving of the soil which may cause damage to an overlying
structure. Deformations occurring in the soil affect the stability of structure
negatively, and the consequence could be tremendous loss.

A total of 15 disturbed and undisturbed soil samples were collected from 9

test pits. Three undisturbed samples at 2 meter depth are tested for
investigation of swelling pressure.

Expansive soils of Lege Tafo are generally black in color and underlain by
gray soils that have significant swelling potential. From soil classifications,
soil samples taken from 2 meter and 3 meter depths have shown the same
capacity for expansion/ swelling potential. As a result of this swell
consolidation test was conducted on three samples collected at 3 meter.

The soil in the study area is mostly clay ranging from 53.6-75.3%, silt 22.9-
33.6%. According to consistency test results, liquid limit ranges from 91 -
116%, plastic limit from 27.8-46.6% and plastic index from 52.37-81.6%.
Within the depth of investigation, the specific gravity of the study area
ranges from 2.60 to 2.85.
According to the Unified Soil Classification System, the soil in the study area
is categorized as highly plastic inorganic clays. AASHTO classification
system also shows that the soil is highly plastic with a potential for a
considerable volume change.
Swelling pressure test carried out on undisturbed samples from the study
yield results ranging from 76 kPa to 165 kPa. The results are compared with
results of previous studies on similar soils around Addis Ababa.
 ADDIS ABABA UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES

INVESTIGATION OF INDEX PROPERTIES AND SWELLING

POTENTIAL OF EXPANSIVE SOILS IN LEGE TAFO AREA

BY

SABA MESFIN

ADDIS ABABA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Approved by Board of Examiners

Dr- Ing. Samuel Tadesse ______________ __________

(Advisor) Signature Date

______________ ____________ ____________

(External Examiner) Signature Date
________________ _____________ ___________
(Internal Examiner) Signature Date
________________ _____________ ___________
(Chairman) Signature Date
 DECLARATION
I, the undersigned, declare that this thesis is my work and that all sources
of material used for the thesis have been duly acknowledged

Name: Saba Mesfin

Signature:
Place: Faculty of Technology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa.
Date of Submission: May, 2019
 CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION

1.1. General

A geotechnical engineer involved in a site investigation of soil properties on

and below an area of interest to determine their engineering properties
including how they will interact with, on or in a proposed construction. Site
investigations are needed to gain an understanding of the area in or on
which the engineering will take place.
Investigation of soil is needed to evaluate the general suitability of the site
and also explore the sub surface condition of the area to provide general
data for the proposed project. Result from the investigation relevant physical
properties of the subsoil used for the purpose of design.
As a result of this expansive soil is has a potential for shrinking and swelling
under changing moisture conditions. Damage to structures particularly light
buildings and pavements can occur. Therefore determination of soil
properties and quantification of the shrink /swell potential at the site is
essential.
Like any other developing country urbanization is growing and more
industrial and residential areas are developing in Ethiopia. Addis Ababa has
shown unprecedented growth in recent years and it is expanding into the
suburbs around the city. Lege Tafo area is one of the suburbs of Addis
Ababa. Currently vast residential buildings, public centers and industrial
zones are under development and it has high prospect of developing.
Because of the wide residential, public and industrial construction that are
under construction and prospect of anticipated fast growth and development
in the area, Lege Tafo area is selected for this Master’s Thesis Project.

1.2. Objectives

The overall aim of this thesis is to investigate the index and swelling
potential of soils found in Lege tafo area.

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 1.2.1. General Objectives
• To investigate relevant physical properties of subsoil used for
the purpose of design
• For investigation and evaluation of soil suitability for
construction

1.2.2. Specific objectives

The specific objectives of the research are:-

• To investigate index properties

• To determine the swelling potential of soils in the area.

1.3. Methodology

The sample was taken from Lege Tafo because it is the potential area for
construction of building in the country. Firstly, Visual site investigation and
information were collected to avoid back fill areas and to take representative
samples of expansive soil of the area after site investigation and
identification was done. Accordingly, nine test pits were selected from
different locations for which the number of test pits required for a project
depends on primarily on uniformity of soil samples and type of construction
on the area. Disturbed and undisturbed samples were taken from an area
where there was a huge potential of expansive soil. Furthermore, a total of
15 disturbed and undisturbed soil samples were collected from the test pits
out of which three undisturbed samples at 2 meter depth were tested for
investigation of swelling pressure. Beside to this, atterberg limit tests,
specific gravity, hydrometer and free swell tests were conducted on
disturbed samples and also Swell Consolidation and UC tests were
conducted on undisturbed samples

Finally, the following laboratory tests were carried out on the samples
collected from the area.

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 ➢ Specific gravity test

➢ Atterberg limit tests

- Liquid limit

- Plastic limit

➢ Grain size analysis

- Sieve analysis(wet method)

- Hydrometer

➢ Free swell test

➢ Unconfined Compression test

➢ Swell- consolidation test

All tests were done according to American Society for Testing Material
(ASTM) standards.

1.4. Scope of the study

This thesis research was concentrated and delineating their study area only
at Lega Tafo and also the research mainly focuses on extensive soil for
determination of soil index properties and swelling potential of soil by
digging of test pits up to 3 meter depth depends on primarily on uniformity
of soil samples and type of construction. The type of construction which is
mainly constructed on this particular area is residential building so that the
soil samples were collected, conducted a laboratory test, consolidated and
analyzed the collected data. .

1.5. Organization of the Thesis

This thesis is divided into six Chapters, each covering a specific topic of the
research work. Chapter one introduces background of the problem,

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objective of the study, research methodology, scope of the thesis work and
Organization of the thesis. Chapter two deals with a brief literature review
on factors influencing the shrink swell potential, identification and
classification of swelling soils and review of expansive soil properties. Clay
mineralogy, formation, physical and swelling properties of expansive soil
are discussed in this chapter.

In chapter three location, topography and climatic characteristics of the

area (Lega Tafo) are described. Chapter four presents sampling, laboratory
tests and their corresponding standard method of testing, discussions on
different soil tests and test results.

The discussion of laboratory test results obtained from this work,

classification of soil using different classification methods and comparison
with results of previous research are works covered in Chapter five. Chapter
six has deals with the conclusions and recommendations drawn from the
research.

Detailed data from laboratory tests such as test pits for each, specific gravit
, grain size ad hydrometer analysis , atterberge test, UCS, and swelling
pressure are included in the appendix.

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 CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1. General

Expansive soils are in abundance where the annual evaporation exceeds the
precipitation. Potentially expansive soils can be found almost anywhere in
the world. In the underdeveloped nations, many of the expansive soil
problems may not have been recognized.
The Ethiopian black soils are the continuation of Gedaref soils in the
eastern part of Sudan. Such residual soils are derived from weathering of
basalt volcanic rocks and are invariable clays or silty clays. [9]
Natural deposits of black cotton soils in the field are characterized by a
general pattern of cracks during the dry season of the year. During wet
seasons, the soil first expands horizontally, filling up the shrinkage cracks
and thus volumetric expansion causes vertical heaving of soil which may
cause damage to an overlying structure.
Expansive soils which are also known as black cotton soils are rich in
montimorillonite. Expansive soils are principally residual, derived from the
weathering of basic volcanic rocks which cover most of the Ethiopian
plateau.
Since volcanic rocks are fine textured rocks, they are invariably clays or silty
clays. Expansive soils are found in areas with poor internal drainage and
low to moderate rainfall .They contain montimorillonite as a principal clay
mineral with additional kaolnite and halloysite.
A potentially expansive soil is not necessarily damaging unless it is
subjected to moisture changes, which may result from seasonal climatic
changes.
Plastic clays exhibiting volume changes when subjected to moisture
variations due to seasonal climatic conditions or artificial causes are termed
expansive soil. These soils are commonly known as black clays. The fact
that they are found favorable in some regions for growing cotton in India has
also given them the name black cotton soil [9].

5|Page
Expansive soil in most cases has adverse effect on any engineering
structure built on it.
Deformations occurring in the soil, affects the structure built on it negatively
and the consequence causes tremendous loss.

2.2. Origin of Expansive Soils

Soils are formed by weathering of rocks due to mechanical disintegration or

chemical decomposition. The origin of expansive soils is related to a complex
combination of conditions and processes that result in the formation of clay
minerals having a particular chemical makeup which, when in contact with
water, will expand. The conditions and processes which determine the clay
mineralogy include composition of the parent material and degree of
physical and chemical weathering to which the materials are subjected.[9]

2.3. Formation of clay minerals

Clay minerals are formed by weathering .This includes disintegration,

oxidation, hydration and leaching. The setting for the formation of
Montimorillonite is extreme disintegration, strong hydration and restricted
leaching .
Magnesium, calcium, sodium, iron cations may accumulate in the system of
leaching. The above conditions are favorable in semi-arid regions with
relatively low rainfalls or highly seasonal moderate rainfall, particularly
where evaporations exceed rainfall, or rainfall with restricted
leaching.(Chen,1988)

2.4. Identification of swelling soils

There are three different methods of Identifying potentially expansive soils.

6|Page
 2.4.1. The mineralogical identification

The mineralogical composition of expansive soils has an important bearing

on the swelling potential. The negative electric charges on the surface of the
clay minerals, the strength of the interlayer bonding, and the cation
exchange capacity all contribute to the swelling potential of the clay. Hence,
the swelling potential of any clay can be evaluated by identification of the
constituent mineral of this clay.
Mineralogical identification can be made through various methods such as
x-ray diffraction, Differential thermal analysis, Dye Adsorption, chemical
Analysis and Electron microscope resolution. [9]

• X-ray diffraction method- used in determining the proportion of the

various minerals present in a colloidal clay consists essentially of
comparing the ratios of the intensities of diffraction lines from the
different minerals with intensities of lines from the standard
substance.

• Differential thermal Analysis- used in conjunction with x-ray

diffraction and chemical analysis enables the identification of
otherwise difficult materials. It is well established as a technique for
the control of materials which undergo characteristic changes on
heating.

• Dye adsorption- dyestuffs and other reagents which exhibit

characteristic colors when adsorbed by clay have been used to
identify clay. When a clay sample has been pretreated with acid, the
color assumed by the adsorbed dye depends on the base exchange
capacity of the various clay minerals present. The presence of
montmorillonite can be detected if its amount is greater than about 5
to 10 percent.

• Chemical Analysis- can be a valuable supplement to other methods

such as x-ray analysis in identifying clays. In the montmorillonite
group of clay minerals, chemical analysis can be used to determine

7|Page
 the nature of isomorphism and to show the origin and location of the
charge on the lattice.

• Electron Microscope Resolution- Microscopic examination of clay

minerals offers a direct observation of the material. Two clays may
give the same x-ray pattern and the same differential thermal curve
but will show distinct morphological characteristics under electron
microscope resolution. The main purpose of the microscopic
examination is to determine mineralogic composition, texture, and
internal structure. [9]

2.4.2. The Indirect methods

This method includes the index propriety, Potential Volume Change (PVC)
method and activity method.

a) Index Property Tests

Index property is a property, which helps in distinguishing the

characteristics of a soil. Soil grain property and soil aggregate property are
two main categories under this term. Soil grain property is based on the
individual grains and depends on size, shape and Mineralogical
characteristics. Soil aggregate property, on the other hand is based on the
property of the soil mass as a whole.
Atterberg limit test, hydrometer analysis, specific gravity and free swell tests
are among the tests which show the index property of a soil.
Holtz and Gibbs demonstrated in 1956 that the plasticity index and the
liquid limit are useful indices for determining the swelling characteristics of
most clays.

i) Atterberg limit tests

The objective of the Atterberg limits test is to obtain basic index information
about the soil used to estimate strength and settlement characteristics. It is
the primary form of classification for cohesive soils. The test indicates the

8|Page
range of plastic state and other state. The water content corresponding to
the transition from one state to another are termed as atterberg limit.
✓ The transition from the liquid state to a plastic state is called liquid
limit
✓ The transition from the plastic state to a semisolid state is called
plastic limit

Fine-grained soil is tested to determine the liquid and plastic limits, which
are moisture contents that define boundaries between material consistency
states. These standardized tests produce comparable numbers used for soil
identification, classification and correlations to strength.

The liquid (LL) and plastic (PL) limits define the water content boundaries
between non-plastic, plastic and viscous fluid states. The plasticity index
(PI) defines the complete range of plastic state. Figure 1 illustrates it nicely.

Figure 2.1: Atterberg limits illustration.

Particle size distribution

Soil consist mostly different sized soil particles as major constituent

ingredient. The determination of the fractions of the particles will help to
identify the soil type as well as to estimate many other engineering
properties such as strength and permeability and to identify the soil is
suitable for construction projects such as highways, dams and backfill.

Two methods are mostly used to determine grain size distribution: .

• Sieve analysis(dry method and wet method)- for coarse grained portion
of the soil and .

9|Page
 • Hydrometer analysis for fine grained portions.

This method covers the quantitative determination of the distribution of

particle size in soils. The distribution of particle size larger than 0.075mm is
determined by sieving, while the distribution of particle finer than 0.075mm
is determined by hydrometer.

Grading of soils is the distribution of particles of different sizes in a soil

mass. The grading of soils can be determined from particle size distribution
curves.
Different soil classification system designates range of grain size for different
soils as shown on the table below,

Table 2.1 Ranges of grain size analysis based on ASTM

Classification Grain size (mm)
System Gravel Sand Slit Clay
Unified 4.75 – 75 0.075 – Clay and silt are identified by their
4.75 plasticity character
AASHTO 2.00 – 75 0.05 – 0.002 – 0.05 < 0.002
2.00
MIT 2.00 –100 0.06 – 0.002 – 0.06 < 0.002
2.00
ASTM 2.00 – 100 0.075 – 0.005 – 0.075 < 0.005
2.00
USDA 2.00 – 75 0.05 – 0.002 – 0.05 < 0.002
2.00

The hydrometer analysis assumes that the soil particles are sphere, the soil
suspicion is sufficient low concentration to permit individual setting of grain
without interference by other. Hydrometer analysis uses to determine
particle size distribution of soil finer than 75 micrometer.

10 | P a g e
Liquid Limit (LL)

The liquid limit defines the boundary between plastic and viscous fluid
states. It is determined using a standard "Liquid Limit Device," which
drops a shallow cupfull of soil 1 cm consistently. When a groove cut
through the sample closes 1/2", the number of drops is recorded and a
moisture content sample processed.

Repeating the procedure for a total of four drop-count ranges provides

enough data to plot on a semi-log scale. From the plot, the moisture content
at 25 drops defines the Liquid Limit.

Plastic Limit
Plastic Limit is the moisture content at the boundary between the plastic
and semisolid states. It is determined by ascertaining the lowest moisture
content at which the material can be rolled into threads 3mm in diameter
before crumbling.

Plastic Index

Plastic Index is the numerical difference between the liquid limit and the
plastic limit and indicates the magnitude of the range of moisture content
over which the soil remains plastic.

PI=LL-PL

It is the measure of the cohesion qualities of the binder resulting from the
clay content. Also it gives some indication of the amount of swelling and
shrinkage that will result in the wetting and drying of the fraction tested.

11 | P a g e
Table 2.2 : Expansive soil classification based on plasticity

Plasticity Index plasticity

0 Non-plastic

<7 Low plastic

7-17 Medium

>17 High plastic

Swell Potential Plasticity Index

Low 0-15

Medium 10-35

High 20-55

Very High 35 and above

Specific gravity

Specific gravity is the ratio of the mass of unit volume of soil at a stated
temperature to the mass of the same volume of gas-free distilled water at a
stated temperature. The specific gravity of soil is used in calculating the
phase relationships of soils, such as void ratio and degree of saturation.
These test methods cover the determination of the specific gravity of soil that
pass the 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve, by means of a water pycnometer.
Determination of specific gravity is important for it is useful to determine the
diameter of the soil grains in hydrometer analysis.

There are two methods for performing the specific gravity

Method A-Procedure for Moist Specimens is preferred for organic soils;

highly plastic, fine grained soil, tropical soils and soils containing halloysite.

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Method B-for oven dried specimen

For this research method A is used

Typical values of specific gravity are given below for roughly assessing the
soil type (from Bowles, foundation analysis and design)

Table 2.3. Specific gravities of soil (Bowles)

soil type Specific
Gravity, Gs
Ranges
Gravel 2.65 - 2.68
Sand 2.65 - 2.68
Silty sand 2.66 - 2.70
Silt, inorganic 2.62 - 2.68
Clay Organic 2.58 - 2.65
Clay inorganic 2.68 - 2.7

The above values are important for the determination of other soil
properties.

(ii) Linear shrinkage: The swell potential is presumed to be related to the

opposite property of linear shrinkage measured in a very simple test
(iii) Free swell:
The free swell test is one of the most commonly used simple tests for
estimating soil swelling potential. This test is performed by pouring 10cc
of dry soil, passing through Sieve no 40 (0.425mm diameter), into a 100
cc graduated cylinder.
The cylinder is then filled with distilled water and the swelled volume of
the soil is measured after the material settles.
Free swell is then given by:
Fs = (V- Vo) / initial volume x100

13 | P a g e
 Where: Fs = Free Swell
V = Final Volume after swell
Vo= Volume of dry soil, 10 cm3

(iv) Colloid content: the grain size characteristics of clay appear to have a
bearing on its swelling potential, particularly the colloid content.

b) PVC Meter
The soil PVC meter is a standardized apparatus for measuurng the
swelling pressure of a compacted sample. The PVC meter can be used in
the field or laboratory. The advantages of the test are its simplicity and
standardization.
c) Cation Exchange Capacity
Cation exchange capacity (CEC) has major significance in determining
clay mineral properties, particularly the conditions with which they
adsorb water.
In clay minerals, the most common exchangeable cations are Ca++,
mg++, H+, K+, NH4+, Na.The existence of such charges is indicated by
the ability of the clay to absorb ions from the solutions.
Cations (positive ions) are more ready absorbed than an ions (negative
ions). Hence negative charge must be predominant on the clay surface.
Montimorillonite, on the other hand, have high cation exchange
capacity.

2.4.3. The Direct Measurement

The most satisfactory and convenient method of determining the swelling

property of expansive soil is by direct measurement. Direct measurement of
expansive soils can be achieved by the use of the conventional one-
dimensional consolidometer.

• Swell-Consolidation test
In this test the sample under a 6.9kPa applied load is wetted and
allowed to fully swell. At this point a standard consolidation test is

14 | P a g e
 conducted by applying incremental loads starting with 25kPa and
ending with 1600kPa. The pressure required to revert the specimen to
its initial void ratio is used to define the swelling pressure.

2.5. Factors Influencing swelling and shrinking of a soil

Many of the factors influencing the mechanism of swelling also affect or are
affected by, physical soil properties as plasticity or density. The factors
influencing the shrink swell potential of a soil can be considered in three
different groups, the soil characteristics that influence the basic nature of
the internal force field, the environmental that influence the change that
may occur in the internal force system, and the state of stress. [9]

2.5.1. The Soil Characteristics

The soil characteristics influence the basic nature of the internal force field
between particles. Soil characteristics may be considered either as
microscale or macro scale factors. Micro scale factors include the
mineralogical and chemical properties of the soil. Macro scale factors
include the engineering properties of the soil, which in turn are dictated by
the micro scale factors. (Chen, 1988)

2.5.1.1. Microscale Factors: Clay mineralogy and Soil Water Chemistry

Clay minerals of different types typically exhibit different swelling potentials

because of variations in the electrical field associated with each mineral. The
swelling capacity of an entire soil mass depends on the amount and type of
clay mineral in the soil, the arrangement and specific surface area of the
clay particles, and the chemistry of the soil water surrounding those
particles.
Three structural groups of clay minerals are Kaolinite group generally non
expansive, Mica-like group includes illites and Vermiculites, which can be
expansive but generally do not pose significant problems and Smectite group
includes montmorillonites, which are highly expansive.

15 | P a g e
Soil water chemistry is important in relation to potential swell magnitude.
Salt cations, such as sodium, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, are
dissolved in the soil water and are adsorbed on the clay surfaces as
exchangeable cations to balance the negative electrical surface charges.
Hydration of these cations and adsorptive forces exerted by the clay crystals
themselves can cause the accumulation of a large amount of water between
the clay particles.[9]
In air dry soils, salt cations are held close to the clay crystal surfaces by
strong electrostatic forces. As water becomes available, cation hydration
energies are sufficiently large to overcome interparticle attraction forces.
Thus, initially desiccated and densely packed particles are forced apart as
adsorbed cations hydrate and become enlarged on the addition of water.
When sufficient water is present, adsorbed cations are no longer held so
tightly by the clay surfaces.

2.5.1.2. Macroscale Factors: Plasticity and Density

Macroscale soil properties reflect the microscale nature of the soil. Because
they are more conveniently measured in engineering work than microscale
factors, macro scale characteristics are primary indicators of swelling
behavior.
Atterberge limits, is the most widely used indicator of expansive potential.
Most expansive soils can exist in a plastic condition over a wide range of
moisture contents due to the capacity of expansive clay minerals to contain
large amounts of water between particles and yet retain a coherent structure
through the inter particle electrical forces. Soil plasticity is influenced by the
same microscale factors that control swell potential and provides a useful
indicator of swell potential.[9]

2.5.2. Environmental Factors

Environmental factors influence the changes that may occur in the internal
force system. The potential for a soil to imbibe or expel water will depend on
the water content relative to the water deficiency of the soil. Initial moisture

16 | P a g e
content influences the shrink swell potential relative to possible limits, or
ranges, in moisture content. Moisture content alone is not a good indicator
or predictor of shrink swell potential. The moisture content relative to
limiting moisture contents such as the plastic limit and shrinkage limit
must be known. Water content changes below the shrinkage limit produce
little or no change in volume. There are indications that as a soil imbed
water, little volume change occurs at water content above the plastic limit.
The availability of water to an expansive soil profile is influenced by many
environmental and manmade factors. Generally, the upper few meters of the
profile are subjected to the widest ranges of potential moisture variation.
These factors are mostly associated with moisture. They are:
• Initial moisture condition
• Climate
• Ground water
• Drainage and manmade water sources
• Vegetation
• permeability
A fine-grained soil can exist in any of several states; which state depends on
the amount of water in the soil system. When water is added to a dry soil,
each particle is covered with a film of adsorbed water. If the addition of
water is continued, the thickness of the water film on a particle increases.
Increasing the thickness of the water films permits the particles to slide past
one another more easily. The behavior of the soil, therefore, is related to the
amount of water in the system.

2.5.3. Stress Condition

Over consolidation, magnitude of surcharge load, thickness and location

of potentially expansive layers influence shrink-swell phenomenon occurring
in the system. These include the following
• Stress history
• Loading
• Soil profile

17 | P a g e
 • Insitu condition

2.6. Unconfined compression Test

The primary purpose of the unconfined compression test is to quickly obtain

the approximate compressive strength of soils that posses sufficient
cohesion to permit testing in the unconfined state.

Is an undrained test and is based on the assumption that there is no

moisture loss during the test. The unconfined compression test is one of the
simplest and quickest tests used for the determination of the shear strength
of cohesive soils.

The strength of a soil determined by compression testing varies with

extremes of the length to diameter ratio and the rate of strain. Unconfined
compressive strength is calculated the same as for any material, with an
additional calculation of the area change from bulging.
The shear strength is defined as half the compressive strength.
Where the equation is given as:

qu =P/A
qu = unconfined compressive strength (Kpa)
P = Compressive force (KN)
A = cross sectional area (m2)

Since soils tend to deform much more (say, than concrete), the area of the
specimen changes through the test to maintain constant volume.
Thus, the averages cross sectional area at a particular deformation during
the test is calculated using:

A=Ao/1-Ɛ
Where; A = corrected cross sectional area (m2)
Ao = original cross sectional area (m2)
Ɛ = axial strain (mm/mm), =∆L/Lo

18 | P a g e
 CHAPTER 3
DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA

3.1. The Project Area

Lege Tafo area is located just Northeast of Addis Ababa. The selected project
area is about 20 km from the center of Addis Ababa. It spreads on both
sides of the Addis Ababa – Debre Brhan highway and is easily accessible.
The terrain is undulating plain and cut by several river valleys. Currently,
thousands of residential buildings are under construction by real estate
developers and individuals .

Fig 3.1: Location of Lege tafo area

3.2. Topography Characteristics

As per elevation data taken with GPS from the research area, the elevation
difference of the sample area was varied from 2452 m to 2477 m. it implies

19 | P a g e
 that the area is categories under semi-arid area. Besides to this, the area
is falling under undulating plain for which the difference in slope gradients
was shown minimum.

3.3. Climatic Characteristics

• The climate characteristicof the research area is similar to Addis

Ababa.
• The average annual rainfall of Addis Ababa is 1089 mm (42.9 in) and
average monthly rainfall of the same area is 90.8 mm (3.6 in).
• The driest weather is in November when an average of 9 mm (0.4 in) of
rainfall (precipitation) occurs.
• The wettest weather is in August when an average of 269 mm (10.6 in) of
rainfall (precipitation) occurs.

20 | P a g e
 Table 3.1: Monthly climate of Addis Ababa

J Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Dec
Nov Deec
Annu
al
Average 20 32 80 96 56 112 245 269 117 40 9 13 1089
Precipitat (0. (1.3) (3.1) (3.8 (2.2) (4.4 (9.6) (10. (4.6) (1.6 (0.4 (0. (42.9)
ion mm 79 ) ) 6) ) ) 5)
(in) )
Precipitat 20 32 80 96 56 112 245 269 117 40 9 13 1089
ion (0. (0.7 (1.9 (2.3 (1.3 (2.7 (6.0 (6.6) (2.87) (0.9 (0.2 (0. (26.7
Litres/m² 49 8) 6) 5) 7) 5) 1) 8) 2) 32) 1)
(Gallons/ )
ft²)
Number 4 5 10 13 9 19 28 28 23 5 2 2 148
of Wet (1 (18% (32% (43 (29% (63 (90% (90% (77%) (16 (7% (6 (41%)
Days 3 ) ) %) ) %) ) ) %) ) %)
(probabili %)
ty of rain
on a day)

Percenta 70 56 61 48 61 45 23 25 43 69 75 85 56 (4
ge of (3 (44) (39) (52) (39) (55) (77) (75) (57) (31) (25) (15
Sunny 0) )
(Cloudy)
Daylight
Hours

21 | P a g e
 Average monthly climate indicators in ADDIS ABABA based on 8 years of
historical weather readings. Temperature by: Fahrenheit

ADDIS ABABA 8 98 N, 38 80 E, 7726 feet (2355 meters) above sea level.

Table 3.2: Mean monthly Temperature of Addis Ababa

J F M A M J J A S O N D
Avg. Temperature 61 63 64 65 65 62 60 59 61 62 60 60
Avg. Max
73 76 75 76 76 72 68 68 70 71 72 72
Temperature
Avg. Min
46 48 52 52 53 52 53 53 51 48 46 44
Temperature
Avg. Rain Days 1 1 3 4 3 8 11 11 7 2 0 0

Avg. Snow Days 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

22 | P a g e
 CHAPTER 4
SAMPLING AND LABORATORY TESTS

4.1. Sampling

Before selecting sample areas, visual site investigation was done and
information was collected to avoid back fill areas and to take representative
samples. After assessing the area, nine test pits were dug at different
locations. Both disturbed and undisturbed samples were collected from the
pits.
The number of test pits required for a project depends primarily on
uniformity of soil samples and type of construction on the area. A total of 15
disturbed and undisturbed soil samples were collected from the test pits.
Three undisturbed samples at 2 meter depth are tested for investigation of
swelling pressure.

Table 4.1 Location of sample in UTM coordinates

Test Pit Location Zone Easting Northing Elevation(m)

TP1 Gewasa 37P 0487363 1000751 2452

TP2 Near ropak eth. 37P 0487228 1002776 2478

TP3 Yeka sede 37P 0486252 1003836 2495

TP4 37P 487100 1001980 2466

TP5 Near 140 37P 488428 1001403 2470

housing
TP6 37P 489779 1003086 2473

TP7 Zobel 37P 489207 100247 2477

TP8 Near 140 37P 488318 1001221 2471

housing
TP9 Near ropak eth. 37P 487270 1002745 2477

23 | P a g e
 TP 9
TP 7

TP 8

Fig 4.1: Location of test samples

4.2. Laboratory Tests and Discussion

Laboratory tests carried out in this research are

- Grain size distribution
- Natural moisture content

24 | P a g e
 - Atterberge limits
- Specific gravity of soil solids (Gs)
- Free Swell test
- Dry density
- Swelling Pressure test
- UCS
All tests are in accordance with the ASTM standard testing methods.
Include the ASTM designations for each.

4.2.1. Grain size distribution

2 analysis

This test is performed to determine the distribution of particle size

distribution of the soil in the study area using ASTM D422-standard test
method. The distribution of particle sizes larger than 75µm (retained on the
No.200 sieve) was determined
3 by sieving, while the distribution of particle
sizes smaller than 75µm was determined by a sedimentation process, using
a hydrometer.

For this test it was difficult to pulverize soil sample to individual particles
Therefore, wet sieve analysis was used for all of the samples collected from
the site for accurate determination of particles finer than 75µm in soil prior
to dry sieving.

25 | P a g e
 Grain Size Boundary According to ASTM
Colloids
0.001
100
90 TP1 @
Percent finer by weight

80 1.5
TP 1 @ 3
70
60 TP [email protected]
50
40 TP2 @3
30
TP 3
20
@1.5
10 TP3 @3
0
100 10 1 0.1 0.01 0.001 0.0001
Grain size mm

Fig 4.2 Grain size distribution curve for samples test pit 1-4

Grain Size Boundary According to ASTM

Colloids
0.001
100
90
TP5 @1.5
Percent finer by weight

80
70 TP5 @3
60
50 TP6 @1.5
40 TP6 @3
30
20 TP7 @2
10 TP8 @2
0
100 10 1 0.1 0.01 0.001 0.0001 TP9 @2
Grain size mm

Fig 4.3 Grain size distribution curve for samples test pit 5-9

26 | P a g e
 Grain size analysis test results are summarized in table 4.1

From the grain size analysis results sand content range is in between 0 and
12.8%,silt 22.9-33.6%, clay content is in between 53.58-75.3% and the
percentage of colloidal particles (less than 0.001mm in diameter) content is
in between 45.79-71.48%.
Tabel 4.2 summary of grain size analysis based on ASTM

Location Depth Sand (%) Silt(%) Clay (%)

TP 1 1.5 3.9 30.6 65.47
TP 1 3.0 2.2 22.9 74.9
TP 2 1.5 0 24.63 75.37
TP 2 3.0 0 29.44 70.56
TP 3 1.5 5.8 25.6 68.63
TP 3 3.0 1.6 26.67 71.73
TP 4 1.5 12.8 33.6 53.58
TP 4 3.0 5.7 29.8 64.49
TP 5 1.5 5.7 27.3 67
TP 5 3.0 2.7 24.9 72.38
TP 6 1.5 4.3 31.7 64
TP 6 3.0 0 30 70
TP7 2.0 5.5 31.6 62.87
TP8 2.0 0 28.33 71.67
TP9 2.0 5.7 30.5 63.80

From grain size analysis results, at all depths greater than 50% of the soil
passes sieve No.200 which show that all samples are fine grained soils
according to Unified Soil Classification System.

4.2.2.Natural Moisture Content

Natural moisture content of the soil is determined in the laboratory by using

undisturbed sample. In the laboratory this test is done by referring ASTM D

27 | P a g e
2216-98 standard. Moisture content measurement is used for performing
weight-volume calculation in soils.
The moisture content of the test pits are presented in Table 4.3

Table 4.3: Natural Moisture Content (%)

Location Depth Natural moisture

(m) content (%)

TP 1 1.5 28.1

TP 1 3.0 48.3

TP 2 1.5 52.4

TP 2 3.0 26.7

TP 3 1.5 47.2

TP 3 3.0 31.5

TP 4 1.5 30.7

TP 4 3.0 31.9

TP 5 1.5 44.3

TP 5 3.0 34.2

TP 6 1.5 32.7

TP 6 2.0 38.6

TP 7 2.0 32.4

TP8 2.0 38.6

TP 9 2.0 32.6

28 | P a g e
 4.2.3. Index properties

Atterberg limit test, hydrometer analysis, specific gravity and free swell tests
are among the tests which show the index properties of a soil.

4.2.3.1. Atterberg limit tests

Atterberg Limits were determined on air dried samples. ASTM D 4318-98

Standard Test method for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and Plasticity Index of
soil were followed.
A typical plot of water content against the log of blows was made as shown
in Fig 4.4.
100.00 liquid lmt TP1 @1.5m
98.00
Water content %

96.00
94.00
92.00
90.00
y = -0.6559x + 108.63
88.00
10.00 Number of blows 100.00

Fig 4.4 Typical water content against log of number of blows. The Aterberg
Limits for soil of the study are are summarized in Table 4.4

Table 4.4: Attergerge limit

Location Depth (m) Liquid Plastic PI (%)
Limit (%) Limit (%)
TP 1 1.5 92 36.4 55.9
TP 1 3.0 100 39.3 60.8
TP 2 1.5 91 38.5 52.6
TP 2 3.0 109 27.8 81.6
TP 3 1.5 98 36.9 61.4
TP 3 3.0 112 42.9 68.7
TP 4 1.5 110 42.1 67.6
TP 4 3.0 109 43.8 65.4

29 | P a g e
TP 5 1.5 106 45.7 60.7
TP 5 3.0 109 43.5 65.1
TP 6 1.5 94 36.8 57.3
TP 6 3.0 103 43.3 60.1
TP7 2.0 116 46.6 68.9
TP8 2.0 107 42.9 63.8
TP9 2.0 103 37.1 66.3

From the results shown in Table 4.5 Liquid limit, Plastic limit and plastic
index range from 91 -116%, 27.8-46.6% & 52.37-81.6% respectively.

4.2.4.Specific Gravity test

Determination of specific gravity is important for it is useful to determine the

size of the soil grains in hydrometer analysis.
ASTM D 854-98 Standard Test was used; there are two methods for
performing the specific gravity

Method A-Procedure for Moist Specimens is preferred for organic soils;

highly plastic, fine grained soil, tropical soils and soils containing halloysite.

Method B-for oven dried specimen

For this research method A is used to determine the specific gravities that
range from 2.62 to 2.85. The test results are shown in Table 4.5.

Table 4.5: Specific gravity

Location Depth (m) Specific

gravity
TP 1 1.5 2.73
TP 1 3.0 2.68
TP 2 1.5 2.62
TP 2 3.0 2.69
TP 3 1.5 2.67

30 | P a g e
TP 3 3.0 2.71
TP 4 1.5 2.65
TP 4 3.0 2.70
TP 5 1.5 2.66
TP 5 3.0 2.73
TP 6 1.5 2.66
TP 6 3.0 2.70
TP7 2.0 2.85
TP8 2.0 2.68
TP9 2.0 2.77

4.2.5. Free Swell Test

Holtz and Gibbs (1956) suggested this method to measure the expansive
potential of soil. The test results are presented in table 4.6.

Table 4.6: Free swell result

Location Depth (m) Free Swell

(%)

TP 1 1.5 110

TP 1 3.0 135

TP 2 1.5 115

TP 2 3.0 135

TP 3 1.5 120

TP 3 3.0 125

TP 4 1.5 100

TP 4 3.0 125

TP 5 1.5 135

TP 5 3.0 130

31 | P a g e
TP 6 1.5 130

TP 6 3.0 145

TP 7 2.0 140

TP8 2.0 135

TP 9 2.0 135

4.2.6.Dry Density

The dry density is an important parameter in determining the magnitude of

volume change. Dry density is directly related to initial moisture content,
the dry density of the clay is another index of expansion. The swell or the
swelling pressure of an expansive soil increases with increasing dry density
for constant moisture content. The reason is that higher densities result in
closer particles spacing, therefore large amount of swelling clays are packed
with in small volume. The Densities of the sample were determined using
ASTM D 2937-00 Standard Test for Density.

They are calculated from the relation of dry = (weight of wet soil/ volume of
the ring). The values of dry density are presented in table 4.7

Table 4.7: Dry density result

Location Depth (m) Dry Density
dry (KN/m3)
TP 1 1.5 14.6
TP 1 3 12
TP 2 1.5 12
TP 2 3 12.6
TP 3 1.5 12.9
TP 3 3 13.3
TP 4 1.5 14.5
TP 4 3 14.8
TP 5 1.5 13.8

32 | P a g e
 TP 5 3 13
TP 6 1.5 15.2
TP 6 2.0 15.1

TP 7 2 13.1
TP8 2 12.6
TP 9 2 13.2

4.3. Classification of the soils

4.3.1.Unified Soil Classification System

The Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) was first developed by

Casagrande in 1948. The system is the most popular system for use in all
types of engineering problems involving soils.
The soils are first classified into two categories
i) Coarse grained soils – are designated as gravel (G) if 50% or more
of coarse fraction (plus 0.075mm) is retained on No 4
(4.75mm)sieve otherwise it is termed sand (S). If the coarse grained
soil contains less than 5% fines and are well graded (W), they are
given the symbols GW and SW, and if poorly graded (P).
ii) Fine grained soil based on percentage of the soil passing No. 200
sieve. From the result sieve analysis the 50% of the sample soil
passes No. 200 sieve therefore fine grained soils. Fine grained soils
are further divided into two types. Soils of low plasticity (L) if the
liquid limit is 50% or less, Soils of high plasticity (H) if the liquid
limit is more than 50%.

As shown in the figure 4.5 plasticity chart of the soil , the A- line has the
equation Ip = 0.73(wl-20) separates the clays from silts. In the same plot of
the chart, the soils around the area are classified as CH which is Inorganic
clays of high plasticity.

33 | P a g e
 100
90
80
CL CH
70
Plastic Index IP

60
50
40
30
M
20 H
10 or
0 O
0 10 CL-ML
20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 H 100 110 120
Liquid Limit wl

Fig 4.5: Plasticity chart of soil in the study area (USCs)

Table 4.8: USCS classification of Lege Tafo soil samples

Location Depth Liquid PI (%) Soil Classification

Limit (%) USCS*
TP 1 1.5 92 55.9 CH
TP 1 3.0 100 60.8 CH
TP 2 1.5 91 52.6 CH
TP 2 3.0 109 81.6 CH
TP 3 1.5 98 61.4 CH
TP 3 3.0 112 68.7 CH
TP 4 1.5 110 67.6 CH
TP 4 3.0 109 65.4 CH
TP 5 1.5 106 60.7 CH
TP 5 3.0 109 65.1 CH
TP 6 1.5 94 57.29 CH
TP 6 3.0 103 60.1 CH
TP 7 2.0 116 68.9 CH
TP 8 2.0 107 63.8 CH
TP 9 2.0 103 66.3 CH

34 | P a g e
 4.3.2. AASHTO Classification System

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Official

(AASHTO) Classification system is useful for classifying soils for highways.
The particle size analysis and the plasticity characteristics are required to
classify a soil. The classification system classifies both coarse grained and
fine grained soils.
The AASHTO system uses similar techniques but the dividing line has an
equation of the form PI=LL-30. It generally classifies a soil broadly into
granular material and silt clay material.
The granular material is further divided into three groups which are A-1, A-
2 and A-3. The silt clay material is in turn divided into four groups A-4, A-
5, A-6 and A-7.

According to this system the soil of the study area falls in the reign of A-7-5
(Fig 4.6)

100
90
80
70 A-7-6
Plastic Index IP

60
50
A-6 &A-2-
40 6
A-7-5 &A-
30
20
2-7
10
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120
Liquid Limit wl

Fig 4.6: Plasticity chart of soil in the study area (AASHTO)

According to figure 4.6 the system classifies the soil as A-7-5.

35 | P a g e
Activity (Colloidal Activity)
Skempton’s colloidal activity is determined as the ratio of the plasticity
index to the clay content in the fines. This method is developed by
combining Atterberg limits and clay content into a single parameter called
Activity.

The activity here is defined as:

Ac= PI/C

Where, Ac= activity number

C= Percentage of clay size finer than 0.002mm and

PI= plasticity index

Table 4.9 Degree of Colloidal activity

Activity Soil Type

Number, Ac

<0.75 Inactive

0.75-1.25 Normal

>1.25 Active

These values are presented in the form of chart, which is called Activity
Chart, and the soil of the study area is compared to the values and it falls in
the range of normal clay. (Fig 4.7)

36 | P a g e
 Activity Chart
100
90
80
70
Plastic Index IP

60
50
40
30
20
10
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120
Clay fraction %

Fig 4.7: Activity Chart

4.4. Unconfined compression Test

The objective of the Unconfined compression test is to determine the UU

(unconsolidated, undrained) strength of a cohesive soil.
The unconfined compression strength test was conducted on undisturbed
samples of Lege Tafo area using ASTM D 2166.The results show that the
soils are in stiff to very stiff consistency, range 97-160- KN /m2 at natural
water content ranging from 26.7 to 52.4 (Table 4.10)

37 | P a g e
Table 4.10: UCS test results
Location Depth (m) Unconfned Natural Consistency
compressive Water
strength content
(kN/m2) (%)
28.1
TP 1 1.5 117.3 Very stiff

48.3
TP 1 3.0 149.5 Very stiff

52.4
TP 2 1.5 88.6 stiff

26.7
TP 2 3.0 146.78 Very stiff

47.2
TP 3 1.5 97 stiff

31.5
TP 3 3.0 105.2 Very stiff

30.7
TP 4 1.5 126.8 Very stiff

31.9
TP 4 3.0 102.9 Very stiff

44.3
TP 5 1.5 86.1 stiff

34.2
TP 5 3.0 101.1 Very stiff

32.7
TP 6 1.5 106.3 Very stiff

38.6
TP 6 3.0 159.8 Very stiff

32.4
TP 7 2.0 126.3 Very stiff

38.6
TP 8 2.0 152.2 Very stiff

32.6
TP 9 2.0 122.5 Very stiff

38 | P a g e
4.5. Consolidation and Swelling Pressure Tests

4.5.2. Consolidation Test

This test is performed to determine the magnitude and rate of volume

decrease that a laterally confined soil specimen undergoes when subjected
to different vertical pressures. From the measured data, the consolidation
curve (pressure-void ratio relationship) can be plotted. This data is useful in
determining the compression index, the recompression index and the pre-
consolidation pressure (or maximum past pressure) of the soil. In addition,
the data obtained can also be used to determine the coefficient of
consolidation and the coefficient of secondary compression of the soil.

The consolidation properties determined from the consolidation test are

used to estimate the magnitude and the rate of both primary and secondary
consolidation settlement of a structure or an earth fill. Estimates of this type
are of key importance in the design of engineered structures and the
evaluation of their performance.

39 | P a g e
 Table 4.10. Summary of consolidation test result
Coeffi Pre-
cient consolid
of ation
Consol pressure
idatio Pc, (kPa)
Natural n Cv
Moisture 10-3 Compres
Test Content Pressure Void cm2/s sion
Pit Depth % P kPa ratio ec Index Cc
1.312405
2 3
1.293799
8.586
50 8
1.267567
1.695
TP 100 1
3 27 0.466 200
02 200 1.242074 2.48
1.196727
2.483
400 3
800 1.081211 2.482
0.941110
3.516
1600 8
7 1.3593
50 1.3428 3.516
100 1.3057 8.585
TP
3 32 200 1.2579 3.516 0.371 80
03
400 1.2079 4.84
800 1.1408 2.482
1600 1.0213 1.696
7 1.1299
3 34 50 1.0975 2.48 0.226 100
100 1.0769 1.6959

40 | P a g e
 200 1.0523 4.843
400 1.0138 3.516
800 0.9681 6.51

27.13

TP
05 1600 0.9000
7 1.2015
50 1.2013 1.696
100 1.1574 3.516
TP
2 32 200 1.0719 4.843 0.373 100
07
400 0.9697 8.584
800 0.8809 6.51
1600 0.7687 27.12
1.320
TP 7 2
2 39 0.426 90
08 1.317
8.586
50 1

41 | P a g e
 1.285
27.13
100 0
1.169
66.24
200 7
1.074
137.35
400 5
0.976
137.34
800 2
0.848
27.13
1600 0
1.33
7 24
1.33
1.696
50 20
1.29
27.13
100 30
TP 1.20
2 33 137.37 0.226 80
09 200 79
1.12
66.24
400 43
1.03
8.58
800 32
0.93
137.33
1600 61

42 | P a g e
 e-log p curve
1.4
1

1.3 3
Void ratio, e

2
1.2
1-Horizontal line
1.1 2-Tangent at maximum
curvature
4 3-Bisector
4-virgin compression
1 5 line
5-Elastic domain

0.9
1.00 10.00 100.00 1000.00 10000.00
Log P

Fig 4.7: Typical consolidation test result

4.5.3. Swelling Pressure

Swelling pressure is defined as the pressure which prevents the specimen

from swelling or that pressure which is required to return the specimen
back to its original state (void ratio, height) after swelling (ASTM, 1996).

Basically, the methods of measuring swelling pressure can be either strain

controlled or stress controlled. Strain controlled method is based on the
principle of controlling the strain that is developed as water is added. In
such a test, modification to the conventional oedometer is required to allow
the control of strain during testing and measurement of the resulting loads.
Stress controlled tests use the conventional oedometer.

The samples are placed in the consolidation ring trimmed to the height of
the ring. After loading with a standard load of 1psi (6.9kpa), water is added

43 | P a g e
to the sample. When swelling of the sample is ceased, the vertical stress is
increased in increments until the sample is compressed back to its original
height. The stress required to compress the sample to its original height is
the zero volume change swelling pressure or simply swelling pressure.
Swelling pressure is an integral soil property, hence whether determining it
through strain or stress controlled, the result is expected to be the same
(Chen, 1988).

Stress controlled method is used to investigate swelling pressure of Lege

Tafo expansive soils. Undisturbed samples from six different test pits.

Table 4.12 Swelling Pressure Test Results of Lege Tafo area

Test Pit No Sample Swelling Initial Dry Density

depth (m) Pressure moisture dry
kPa content (%) (KN/m3)
TP2 3 165 27 12.6

TP3 3 135 32 13.3

TP5 3 121 35 13

TP7 2 128 33 13.1

TP8 2 76.20 38 12.6

TP9 2 133.33 32 13.2

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Fig 4.8: Typical swell consolidation test result

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 CHAPTER 5
DISCUSSION OF LABORATORY TEST RESULTS

5.1. Discussions of Test Results

5.1.1. Grain size analysis

Nine test pits were selected from different locations for which the number of
test pits required for a project depends on primarily on uniformity of soil
samples and type of construction on the area. Disturbed and undisturbed
samples were taken from an area where there was a huge potential of
expansive soil. Furthermore, as per the grain size analysis results, sand
content range is in between 0 and 12.8%, silt 22.9-33.6% and clay content
is between 53.58-75.3% and also the percentage of colloidal particles (less
than 0.001mm in diameter) content is varies between 45.79-71.48%.As a
result, all soil depths greater than 50% of the soil passes sieve No.200 which
show that all samples were categories as fine grained soils under Unified
Soil Classification System. Besides to this, all test pits it was identified on
the top layer was either grey or black .however, all test conducted at about 3
meter depth was fell under grey in colour. Moreover, as shown in Fig 4.2 &
4.3 Grain size distribution curve discussed that hydrometer analysis is used
to determine particle size distribution of soil finer than 75 micro meter so
that as shown in the above figure, all sample soil test result laid above the
curve which contained fine grained particles of soil.
The particle size distribution curve is extremely useful for identified coarse-
grained soils. The behavior of fine grained soils (minus 75µ) depends upon
the plasticity characteristic and not on the particle size. Hence, according to
Holtz & Gibb soils containing colloid particles greater than 28% have high
degree of expansion. Soil contained 23-13%of colloid particle have medium
to high degree of expansion while those contained colloidal particles less
than 13% have low degree of expansion. This is concluded that the soil
which is found in the study area has high degree of expansion.

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5.1.2.Natural Moisture Content and Initial Dry Density Test

The moisture content and initial dry density of the soil affected by a number
of factors, some of them are soil type (soil texture, soil structure etc),
prevailing moisture content of the soil, climate, soil depth and the like.
Natural moisture content of the soil is determined in the laboratory using
undisturbed sample and the soil test is done by referring ASTM D 2216-98
standard. Moisture content of the soil is measured using performing weight-
volume calculation of the soils. As shown in the table 4.3 natural moisture
content depicted that soil samples was taken at different depth of soil , its
amount was varied from 28.1-52.4 % at 1.5 m depth, 32.4-38.6% at 2 m
depth and 26.7-48.3% at 3m depth, The infiltration rate of the soil increase
with increase the particle size so that the moisture content of the soil is
higher when it become deeper and deeper and vice verse. Similarly, the
infiltration rate of the soil increase with decreasing of particle size so that
higher moisture content has found at lower depth of soil.

Irrespective of high swelling potential, if the moisture content of the clay

remains unchanged, there will be no volume change, structures founded on
clays with constant moisture content will not be subject to movement
caused by heaving. This is to conclude that the natural moisture content of
the soil in the study area varies between 26.7%-52.4%.

5.1.3.Atterberge Limit tests

The results of the Atterbergs limits are presented in Table 4.4. The results of
liquid limit, Plastic limit and plastic index range from 91 -116%, 27.8-46.6%
& 52.37-81.6% respectively.
Based on the standard test method of liquid limit, and plasticity index
Unified soil classification (USC) system is used to classify soil of the study
area.
According to Unified Soil Classification System, plasticity chart (Fig 4.5),
the soil under investigation lies in group CH (inorganic clay with high
plasticity).

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According to AASHTO Classification system, (Fig 6), soil of the study area
fall under A-7-5. For all tests Liquid Limit greater than 50% the soil group in
Inorganic silt and clay of high plasticity.
Skempton’s colloidal activity method was also use to classify and estimate
heave of expansive soil, the result can be seen on fig 4.7 which falls into
normal clay.
Generally, the soil under investigation consists mainly of inorganic clay of
high plasticity with some fractions of silty or clayey sands.

The amount of volume change exhibited by various soils under various

placement conditions varies greatly. Soil obtained from beneath a 2 meter
may not possess high swell potential due to low ranges of potential moisture
variation therefore soil samples at 2 meter from ground level were taken for
swelling pressure test.

5.1.4. Specific Gravity test

Based on Table 2.2 and from grain size distribution, percentage passing
sieve no 200 it is possible to classify soils with specific gravity > 2.65 are
either silty inorganic or Clay inorganic. Accordingly, test results are shown
in Table 4.5, the specific gravities ranges from 2.62 to 2.85.

5.1.5. Free Swell

Free swell percent ranged from 100%-145% (Table 4.6). Soils having a free
swell greater than 100% are considered expansive. Therefore, soils under
investigation have high swelling potential.

5.2. Swell consolidation Test

The swelling pressure and the amount of swell of the soil were measured by
means of one dimensional compression tests. The swelling pressure
obtained is 76 -165kPa. Thus the degree of expansion can be categorized as
Medium to High (Chen, 1988).

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5.2.1.Swelling Pressure and Natural Moisture Content and Dry Density

The results show (Fig 5.1.) a general trend of decreasing swelling

pressure with increment of natural moisture content manifested in a
linear relation.

180
160
140
120
100 Swelling Pressure kPa

80
Initial moisture
60 content (%)

40
20
0
1 2 3 4 5 6

Fig 5.1. Swelling Pressure and Natural Moisture Content and Dry
Density

Moist clays may desiccate due to the lowering of the water table or other
changes in physical conditions and upon subsequent wetting will again
exhibit swelling potential.
Directly related to initial moisture content, the dry density of the clay is
another index of expansion. Soils with high dry densities generally exhibit
high swelling potential.

5.3. Relationship Among Different Soil Properties of the Study Area

For the soil under investigation; index properties were studied and a
comparison was made with studies around Addis Ababa in Table 5.1.

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Table –5.1 Index property Test Results in different part of Addis Ababa
Thesis * Thesis ** Current study
Soil type Expansive soil Expansive soil Expansive soil
Location Addis Ababa Addis Ababa Lege tafo
Clay Content (%) 50-81 65-71 58-75
Silt fraction (%) 22-46 25-36
Sand fraction (%) 1-4 2-4 0-10
Liquid Limit (%) 79-121 78-100 91-111
Plastic limit (%) 25-50 25-27 36-46
Plasticity Index 38-84 68-74 52-81
(%)
Dry density dry 12-15.2
KN/m3
Moisture content 32-45.5 25-41 26-52
(%)
Specific Gravity 2.77-2.85 2.8-2.84 2.6-2.85
Swelling pressure 37-420 80-300 76-165
From Plasticity CH
chart

* Daniel Tekele
** Mesfin Kassa
As show in the above Table 5.1, Index property of soil test result was
conducted in different part of Addis Ababa and compared the same with the
thesis research result currently conduced at lege tafo. Some of the
properties used for comparison are Sieve analysis, liquid Limit, Plastic Index
and specific gravities and the like. As a result, Soils found in Lege tafo area
shown lower swelling pressure compared to the result carried out by other
researchers conducted on similar soils. The results of swelling pressure are
smaller due to the fact that the initial moisture content of the soil was
higher. Except the above, the overall data show that there is a considerable
similarity in the physical properties of the area.

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 CHAPTER 6
CONCLUSION AND RECOMENDATION

6.1. Conclusion

In most of the area gray clay is found beneath black clays, shows no
significant distinction between physical properties and amount of volume
change.
Grain size analysis tests revealed that, the soil in the study area is mostly
clay with particle sizes ranging from 58-75%, silt 24-34% and sand content
ranges from 0 to 12.8 (%) indicating the presence of high clay content.

All samples have free swell of greater than 100% which shows that the soil
is expansive soil. The overall free swell of the clay samples ranges between
100-145%.

According to the Atterberg test results the liquid limit, plastic limit and
plastic index range between 91 -116%, 27.8-46.6% & 52.37-81.6%
respectively. The soils in the study area have high Atterberg limit values
showing that the soils are highly plastic.

The specific gravity range is 2.60-2.85. The unconfined compression

strength of the soils in the study area range from 97 to 160kN/m, based on
which the consistency of the soil ranges from stiff to Very stiff.

According to the Unified Soil Classification System the soil is categorized as

highly plastic inorganic clay. AASHTO classification system also shows that
the soil is highly plastic as well as subject to considerable volume change.

The swelling pressure ranges from 76kPa to 165kPa these is due to time of
sample collected from field was after rainy season in October and also high
initial moisture content of the sample during the test. Considering the result
from index property, the highest swelling value should be taken. Also the

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results show a general trend of decreasing swelling pressure with increment
of natural moisture content manifested in a linear relation

6.2. Recommendation

Uplift movement can be tolerated in certain structures in the same manner

as some settlement can be tolerated in certain structures such as residential
buildings. It is possible to allow certain amounts of uplift movement so as to
minimize the required dead load pressure.

Construction considerations should identify subsurface condition that will

encounter in the field during construction. In addition the site should be
preserved from local watering or any other means which can allow water to
enter to the foundation.

Swell can be prevented if expansive clays can be loaded with a surcharge

large enough to counteract the expected swell pressure. This method can be
used on the study area for large projects involving high foundation
pressures. As the swell pressure increases the use of a surcharge is less
efficient because of the nonlinear nature of the pressure swell relationship.

Other Treatment methods should be chosen considering the construction

size, phase, Nature and use and cost comparisons of alternative methods of
the construction. Finally, by taking into consideration the result which was
analyzed and discussed in the above, the types of soil texture and range of
swelling pressure of the soil can with stand any load it can be dead and live
load which can exerted from residential building in to soil foundation. As a
result, it is possible for construction of residential building in research area
below a foundation depth of 3meter because to increase surcharge on the
foundation

52 | P a g e
 7. REFERENCES

1. Joseph E. Bowles.(1997), Foundation Analysis and Design 5th

Edition
2. John D. Nelson and Debora J. Miller (1992),Expansive Soils
problem and practice in foundation and pavement engineering
3. DR.K.R. Arora (2004),Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering
4. Dagmawe Negussie(2007), in depth Investigation of r/ship
between Index Properties and swelling characteristics of
expansive soil in Bahirdar, Unpublished M.Sc thesis A.A.U.
,Ethiopia
5. Abraham Mengistie(2014), Correlation between Index Properties
and Swelling Characteristic of Expansive Soil in Asella town,
Unpublished M.Sc thesis A.A.U. ,Ethiopia
6. Kibrom Gebrekrstos, Investigation into Engineering Properties of
Mekelle Soils With Emphasis on Expansive Soils
7. Website,Kshitija Nadgouda, http://technorati:com/tag; soil +
consolidation
8. Dagnachw debebe(2011), Investigation on some of the engineering
characteristics of soils in Adama town, Ethiopia
9. Chen, F.H., (1988) , Foundations on Expansive soils: Development
in Geotechnical Engineering, Vol. 12, Elsivier Science Publishing
Company Inc. New York.
10. ASTM (1996) American Standard for Testing Materials,
Philadelphia.
11. Das, B.M.(1997), Advanced Soil Mechanics, Phildelphia: Taylor
and Francis Publishers
12. Michael E. Kalinski (2011) Soil mechanic lab manual, John Wiley
& Sons, Inc.
13. Murthy, V.M.S,( 2001).Soil Mechanics and Foundation
Engineering, Fifth Revised Edition, Mew York: UBS Marcel Dekker
nc,

53 | P a g e
APPENDICES
(Test Results)
Appendix 5:GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS
Project: Investigation of Index properties and swelling potential of expansive soils in Lege Tafo area
Sample Location: Lege Tafo
Sample discripition: Clay soil
Determination of Grain Size

Wet Sieve Analysis TP 4 3.0mt Total mass of sample, gm= 1000

Sieve Sieve Mass of Mass of sieve + Mass of Percentage Cumulative Percentage

No Opening Sieve Retained soil Retained soil Retained Percentage Passing
(mm) (g) (g) (g) Retained
No 4 4.75 431.0 431.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 100.0
No 8 2.36 389.0 389.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 100.0
No 10 2 377.0 377.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 100.0
No 16 1.18 355.0 355.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 100.0
No 30 0.6 312.0 312.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 100.0
No 50 0.3 291.0 291.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 100.0
No 100 0.15 276.0 276.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 100.0
No 200 0.075 254 274.0 20 2.0 2.0 98.0
pan ------- 325.7 1305.7 980 98.0 100.0 0.0

Hydrometer Analysis specific gravity of soil 2.65

Elapsed Actual test Corrected Effective Grain Percent finer

Time, T Hydrometer tempratu Composite Hydrometer Depth, L size for combined
(min) Reading, RA re(oC) Correction Reading, Rc (cm) Coefficient, K Percent finer (mm) analysis
0.25 1.0315 19 -0.0029 1.0286 7.968 0.01361 90.85 0.077 89.03
0.5 1.0285 19 -0.0029 1.0256 8.761 0.01361 81.32 0.057 81.32
1 1.0280 19 -0.0029 1.0251 8.893 0.01361 79.73 0.041 79.73
2 1.0275 19 -0.0029 1.0246 9.026 0.01361 78.14 0.029 78.14
5 1.0270 19 -0.0029 1.0241 9.158 0.01361 76.55 0.018 76.55
8 1.0265 20 -0.0027 1.0238 9.290 0.01344 75.60 0.014 75.60
15 1.0255 19 -0.0029 1.0226 9.555 0.01361 71.79 0.011 71.79
30 1.0245 20 -0.0027 1.0218 9.819 0.01344 69.25 0.008 69.25
60 1.0235 20 -0.0027 1.0208 10.084 0.01344 66.07 0.006 66.07
120 1.0220 20 -0.0027 1.0193 10.481 0.01344 61.31 0.004 61.31
240 1.0210 19 -0.0029 1.0181 10.745 0.01361 57.49 0.003 57.49
480 1.0200 19 -0.0029 1.0171 11.010 0.01361 54.32 0.002 54.32
1440 1.0185 19 -0.0029 1.0156 11.406 0.01361 49.55 0.001 49.55