To evaluate the geotechnical properties of coarse-grained soil affected by cyclic freeze-thaw,the electrical resistivity and mechanical tests are conducted.The soil specimens are prepared under different water content...To evaluate the geotechnical properties of coarse-grained soil affected by cyclic freeze-thaw,the electrical resistivity and mechanical tests are conducted.The soil specimens are prepared under different water contents,dry densities and exposed to 0?20 freeze-thaw cycles.As a result,the stress?strain behavior of the specimen(w=14.0%andρd=1.90 g/cm^3)changes from strain-hardening into strain-softening due to the freeze-thaw effect.The electrical resistivity of test specimen increases with the freeze-thaw cycles change,but the mechanical parameters(the unconfined compressive strength qu and the deformation modulus E)and brittleness index decrease considerably at the same conditions.All of them tend to be stable after 7?9 cycles.Moreover,both the dry density and the water content have reciprocal effects on the freeze-thaw actions.The failure and pore characteristics of specimens affected by freeze-thaw cycles are discussed by using the image analysis method.Then,an exponential function equation is developed to assess the electrical resistivity of specimens affected by the cyclic freeze-thaw.Linear relations between the mechanical parameters and the electrical resistivity of specimens are established to evaluate the geotechnical properties of the soil exposed to freeze-thaw actions through the corresponding electrical resistivity.展开更多
In order to investigate the influence of intermediate principal stress on the stress-strain and strength behaviour of a coarse-grained soil, a series of true triaxial tests were performed. The tests were conducted in ...In order to investigate the influence of intermediate principal stress on the stress-strain and strength behaviour of a coarse-grained soil, a series of true triaxial tests were performed. The tests were conducted in a recently developed true triaxial apparatus with constant minor principal stress σ3 and constant value of intermediate principal stress ratio b=（σ2-σ3）/（σ1-σ3） （al is the vertical stress, and % is the horizontal stress）. It is found that the intermediate principal strain, ε2, increases from negative to positive value with the increase of parameter b from zero to unity under a constant minor principal stress. The minor principal strain, ε3, is always negative. This implies that the specimen exhibits an evident anisotropy. The relationship between b and friction angle obtained from the tests is different from that predicted by LADE-DUNCAN and MATSUOKA-NAKAI criteria. Based on the test results, an empirical equation of g（b） that is the shape function of the failure surface on re-plane was presented. The proposed equation is verified to be reasonable by comparing the predicted results using the equation with true triaxial test results of soils, such as coarse-grained soils in this study, sands and gravels in other studies.展开更多
Gradation equation is one way to describe the gradation of coarse-grained soil conveniently,exactly and quantitatively.With the gradation equation,the influence of gradation on the mechanical behaviors of coarse-grain...Gradation equation is one way to describe the gradation of coarse-grained soil conveniently,exactly and quantitatively.With the gradation equation,the influence of gradation on the mechanical behaviors of coarse-grained soil can be expressed quantitatively.A new gradation equation with a parameter is proposed.The basic properties and applicability of the new equation are studied.The results show that the proposed equation has the applicability to express coarse-grained soil gradation(CSG),and the range of the parameter β is found to be 0<β<1.The value ofbdetermines the gradation curve shape.If β>0.5,the gradation curve is sigmoidal,otherwise the gradation curve is hyperbolic.For well graded gradations,the parameter has the value of 0.13<β<1.Several CSGs used in domestic and foreign earth-rockfill dams are probed,and the value of the parameterbfalls in the range of 0.18 to 0.97.The investigation of the range of β is of value to guide the design for CSG of earth-rockfill dam.展开更多
By using large scale triaxial shearing apparatus,consolidated-drained shear tests were conducted on coarse-grained soil with different gradations.In order to describe their deformation rules,three main characteristics...By using large scale triaxial shearing apparatus,consolidated-drained shear tests were conducted on coarse-grained soil with different gradations.In order to describe their deformation rules,three main characteristics of tangent Poisson ratio curves were summarized and the reason was revealed by dividing the movement of soil particles into two kinds: the movement of fine particles and the movement of coarse particles.Then,a volumetric strain expression and a tangent Poisson ratio expression were put forward,and two defects of widely used Duncan-Chang model were fixed.Results calculated from them agree well with test results.There are three parameters,namely L,G and F,in this new model.Parameter L reflects the dilatancy of a specimen and L=4 can be used as a criterion to estimate whether a certain kind of soil has dilatancy quality or not.Parameters G and F relate to the initial slope of tangent Poisson ratio curves,and G=F=0 indicates a special situation which happens in dense granular material of the same diameter.Influences of various gradations on volume deformation are mainly reflected in parameter L which is smaller when there are more gravels in specimens.展开更多
This paper aims to determine the optimal fines content of coarse-grained soil required to simultaneously achieve weaker frost susceptibility and better bearing capacity. We studied the frost susceptibility and strengt...This paper aims to determine the optimal fines content of coarse-grained soil required to simultaneously achieve weaker frost susceptibility and better bearing capacity. We studied the frost susceptibility and strength properties of coarse-grained soil by means of frost heaving tests and static triaxial tests, and the results are as follows： （1） the freezing temperature of coarse-grained soil decreased gradually and then leveled off with incremental increases in the percent content of fines; （2） the fines content proved to be an important factor influencing the frost heave susceptibility and strength properties of coarse-grained soil. With incremental increases in the percent content of fines, the frost heave ratio increased gradually and the cohesion function of fines effectively enhanced the shear strength of coarse-grained soil before freeze-thaw, but the frost susceptibility of fines weakened the shear strength of coarse-grained soil after freeze-thaw; （3） with increasing numbers of freeze-thaw cycles, the shear strength of coarse-grained soil decreased and then stabilized after the ninth freeze-thaw cycle, and therefore the mechanical indexes of the ninth freeze-thaw cycle are recommended for the engi- neering design values; and （4） considering frost susceptibility and strength properties as a whole, the optimal fines content of 5% is recommended for railway sub,fade coarse-~rained soil fillings in frozen re^ions.展开更多
Practical assessment of subgrade settlement induced by train operation requires developing suitable models capable of describing permanent deformation characteristics of subgrade filling under repeated dynamic loading...Practical assessment of subgrade settlement induced by train operation requires developing suitable models capable of describing permanent deformation characteristics of subgrade filling under repeated dynamic loading.In this paper,repeated load triaxial tests were performed on coarse-grained soil(CGS),and the axial permanent strain of CGS under different confining pressures and dynamic stress amplitudes was analysed.Permanent deformation behaviors of CGS were categorized based on the variation trend of permanent strain rate with accumulated permanent strain and the shakedown theory.A prediction model of permanent deformation considering stress state and number of load cycles was established,and the ranges of parameters for different types of dynamic behaviors were also divided.The results indicated that the variational trend of permanent strain rate with accumulated permanent strain can be used as a basis for classifying dynamic behaviors of CGS.The stress state(confining pressure and dynamic stress amplitude)has significant effects on the permanent strain rate.The accumulative characteristics of permanent deformation of CGS with the number of load cycles can be described by a power function,and the model parameters can reflect the influence of confining pressure and dynamic stress amplitude.The study’s results could help deepen understanding of the permanent deformation characteristics of CGS.展开更多
The stress produced by repeated train loads decreases with increasing railway subgrade bed depth, and slightly weathered coarse particles of subgrade bed fillings can be broken at different levels under continuous loa...The stress produced by repeated train loads decreases with increasing railway subgrade bed depth, and slightly weathered coarse particles of subgrade bed fillings can be broken at different levels under continuous load. Thus, the mass of fine soil, with a diameter of not more than 0.075 mm, is different at different depths. Fine soil is also sensitive to frost heave and thaw settlement. In order to study the effects of non-uniformly distributed fine soil on the mechanical properties of coarse-grained soil of the Shenyang-Dandong Railway, triaxial tests were conducted with three types of specimens, un- dergoing six freeze-thaw cycle numbers （0, 1, 3, 7, 9, 12） and three confining pressures （100, 200, 300 kPa）. The freezing temperature is -5 ~C and the thawing temperature is ＋15 ~C. The stress-strain behavior, static strength, resilient modulus, cohesive force and the angle of internal friction were measured for different tested specimens. As a result, the law of static strength and resilient modulus of different specimens following the increase of freeze-thaw cycles under three confining pressures is obtained. The changing law of cohesive force and friction angle of three specimens following the increase of freeze-thaw cycles is also calculated, and the different results of different specimens are also compared.展开更多
Purpose–This study aims to propose a semiempirical and semitheoretical cyclic compaction constitutive model of coarse-grained soil filler for the high-speed railway(HSR)subgrade under cyclic load.Design/methodology/a...Purpose–This study aims to propose a semiempirical and semitheoretical cyclic compaction constitutive model of coarse-grained soil filler for the high-speed railway(HSR)subgrade under cyclic load.Design/methodology/approach–According to the basic framework of critical state soil mechanics and in view of the characteristics of the coarse-grained soil filler for the HSR subgrade to bear the train vibration load repeatedly for a long time,the hyperbolic empirical relationship between particle breakage and plastic work was derived.Considering the influence of cyclic vibration time and stress ratio,the particle breakage correction function of coarse-grained soil filler for the HSR subgrade under cyclic load was proposed.According to the classical theory of plastic mechanics,the shearing dilatation equation of the coarse-grained soil filler for the HSR subgrade considering particle breakage was modified and obtained.A semiempirical and semitheoretical cyclic compaction constitutive model of coarse-grained soil filler for the HSR subgrade under cyclic load was further established.The backward Euler method was used to discretize the constitutive equation,build a numerical algorithm of“elastic prediction and plastic modification”and make a secondary development of the program to solve the cyclic compaction model.Findings–Through the comparison with the result of laboratory triaxial test under the cyclic loading of coarse-grained soil filler for the HSR subgrade,the accuracy and applicability of the cyclic compaction model were verified.Results show that the model can accurately predict the cumulative deformation characteristics of coarse-grained soil filler for the HSR subgrade under the train vibration loading repeatedly for a long time.It considers the effects of particle breakage and stress ratio,which can be used to calculate and analyze the stress and deformation evolution law of the subgrade structure for HSR.展开更多
Seepage in coarse-grained soil exhibits distinct non-Darcy characteristics,and the transition from linear to nonlinear seepage significantly affects the hydraulic characteristics and geotechnical applications.Due to t...Seepage in coarse-grained soil exhibits distinct non-Darcy characteristics,and the transition from linear to nonlinear seepage significantly affects the hydraulic characteristics and geotechnical applications.Due to the complexity of pore structure in heterogeneous coarse-grained soil,identifying the critical threshold for the transition from Darcy to non-Darcy seepage is challenging.This paper introduces equivalent particle size(dep)and relative roughness(λt)as indirect indicators reflecting the pore characteristics,quantifying the complex pore structure of heterogeneous coarse-grained soil.The formulae for the derivation of Reynolds number and resistance coefficient for heterogeneous coarse-grained soil are presented.By conducting permeability tests on coarse-grained soils with different pore structures,the effect of particle composition heterogeneity on seepage characteristics was analyzed.The flow regime of heterogeneous coarse-grained soil is divided into laminar,transitional,and turbulent stages based on the relationship between Reynolds number and resistance coefficient.The energy loss patterns in each stage are closely related to pore structure.By setting the permeability ratio k∗=0.95 as the critical threshold for the transition from Darcy to non-Darcy seepage,a method for calculating the critical Reynolds number(Recr)for heterogeneous coarse-grained soil is proposed.Furthermore,we applied this method to other published laboratory data,analyzing the differences in the critical threshold for seepage transition between homogeneous and heterogeneous coarse-grained soil.This study aims to propose a more accurate and general criterion for the transition from Darcy to non-Darcy seepage in heterogeneous coarse-grained soil.展开更多
The presence of particles larger than the permissible dimensions of conventional laboratory specimens causes difficulty in the determination of shear strength of coarse-grained soils. In this research, the influence o...The presence of particles larger than the permissible dimensions of conventional laboratory specimens causes difficulty in the determination of shear strength of coarse-grained soils. In this research, the influence of particle size on shear strength of coarse-grained soils was investigated by resorting to experimental tests in different scale and numerical simulations based on discrete element method （DEM）. Experimental tests on such soil specimens were based on using the techniques designated as ＂parallel＂ and ＂scalping＂ to prepare gradation of samples in view of the limitation of laboratory specimen size. As a second approach, the direct shear test was numerically simulated on assemblies of elliptical particles. The behaviors of samples under experimental and numerical tests are presented and compared, indicating that the modification of sample gradation has a significant influence on the mechanical properties of coarse-grained soils. It is noted that the shear strengths of samples produced by the scalping method are higher than samples by the parallel method. The scalping method for preparing specimens for direct shear test is therefore recommended. The micromechanical behavior of assemblies under direct shear test is also discussed and the effects of stress level on sample behavior are investigated.展开更多
This work used a modified direct shear apparatus, created newly by the authors, to explore effects of the gap between shear box halves and specimen size on the shear resistance of coarse-grained soil. The shear boxes ...This work used a modified direct shear apparatus, created newly by the authors, to explore effects of the gap between shear box halves and specimen size on the shear resistance of coarse-grained soil. The shear boxes of this apparatus were assembled from a series of steel structures capable of superimposition and nesting. Such characteristics facilitated variation of specimen size in both diameter and height. The new device can also maintain a constant gap during shearing. We performed a series of gap-effect and size-effect tests for two uniformly graded, coarse^grained soil samples. The test results showed that both the gap space and specimen size bad significant influences on shear resistance of the coarse-grained soil. Further, analysis of variations in shear strength indices led to a reasonable gap dimension and specimen size of the two soil samples.展开更多
The effects of ultrafine WC(WC_(UF),0.5μm) or W(1μm) and C(0.3μm)(W+C)_(UF) additives on the densification,microstructure and mechanical properties of coarse-grained cemented carbides were compared systematically.O...The effects of ultrafine WC(WC_(UF),0.5μm) or W(1μm) and C(0.3μm)(W+C)_(UF) additives on the densification,microstructure and mechanical properties of coarse-grained cemented carbides were compared systematically.Overall,the cemented carbides with WC_(UF)/(W+C)_(UF) additives are almost fully densification to be higher than 99%,and the average grain size is kept above 2.8μm.The WC_(UF) additive assists grains to(truncated)trigonal prism shape by two dimensional(2D) growth,whereas the(W+C)_(UF) additive assists grains to rounded shape by three dimensional(3D) growth,lowers WC contiguity and increases face-centered-cubic Co.The hardness and bending strength of(75WC_(C)-15WC_(UF))-10Co are 86.6 HRA and 2 272 MPa,respectively,both higher than those of(75WC_(C)-15(W+C)_(UF))-10Co,which could be ascribed to the enhanced densification and unblemished grains.However,the fracture toughness of the(75WC_(C)-15(W+C)_(UF))-10Co is 23.5 MPa·m^(1/2),higher than that of the(75WC_(C)-15WC_(UF))-10Co due to the uniform WC-Co structure and flexible binder phase.展开更多
Expansive soils, prone to being influenced by the environmental conditions, undergo expansion when water is introduced and shrinkage upon drying. This persistent volumetric fluctuation can induce differential movement...Expansive soils, prone to being influenced by the environmental conditions, undergo expansion when water is introduced and shrinkage upon drying. This persistent volumetric fluctuation can induce differential movements and result in cracking of structures erected upon them. The present research focuses on characterizing the behavior of pavements erected on expansive clays subjected to swelling and shrinkage cycles. Direct shear tests and oedometer tests were conducted in the laboratory on samples of expansive soils undergoing swelling-shrinkage cycles. The experimental data reveal a significant decrease in shear strength, evidenced by a reduction in shear parameters (internal friction angle, cohesion) and a decrease in the modulus of elasticity as the number of cycles increases. A numerical model based on the finite element method was developed to simulate the behavior of a pavement on an expansive clay substrate. The model results indicate an increase in total displacements with the increase in the number of shrinkage-swelling cycles, demonstrating a progressive degradation of the soil’s mechanical behavior. This study contributes to a better understanding of the complex phenomena governing the behavior of expansive soils and serves as a foundation for developing effective management and mitigation strategies for road infrastructures.展开更多
Soil integrity and fertility is on high risk due to water erosion, it’s not only disturbed cropping practices but also damages the ecosystem of the land. In this study, the combination of GIS and RUSLE modeling are u...Soil integrity and fertility is on high risk due to water erosion, it’s not only disturbed cropping practices but also damages the ecosystem of the land. In this study, the combination of GIS and RUSLE modeling are used to compute average yearly soil erosion rate in Baltistan Division of Gilgit. R, K, LS C & P Factors were computed to determine average Annual Soil Loss (ASL) which came out to be 6.68 tons/hectare/year. Higher altitudes, which are primarily covered in glaciers and watersheds, depicts maximum value of ASL when compared with lower altitude. Study area may witness a rise in soil loss due to soil texture and change in rain pattern (due to climate change). The maps developed during the study can also be referred to develop planning of land management strategy against soil erosion.展开更多
A new manufactured soil product (Turba) was produced using acidified bauxite residue into which 10% green waste compost had been incorporated. A laboratory/greenhouse experiment was carried out to determine if sand co...A new manufactured soil product (Turba) was produced using acidified bauxite residue into which 10% green waste compost had been incorporated. A laboratory/greenhouse experiment was carried out to determine if sand could be used as an ingredient or an amendment for Turba. Sand was added at rates of 0%, 5%, 10%, 25, 50% and 75% (w/w) in two different ways 1) by incorporating it into the Turba during its manufacture (IN) or 2) by mixing it with Turba aggregates after their manufacture (OUT). Incorporation of sand into Turba aggregates (IN) decreased the percentage of sample present as large aggregates (2 - 4 mm dia.) after crushing and sieving (<4 mm) and also reduced the stability of 2 - 4 mm dia. formed aggregates (to dry/wet sieving) and are therefore not recommended. In a 16-week greenhouse study, ryegrass shoot yields were greater in Turba than in sand [and decreased with increasing sand additions (OUT)] while root dry matter showed the opposite trend. The greater grass growth in Turba than sand was attributed to incipit water stress in plants grown in sand and this may have promoted greater allocation of assimilates to roots resulting in a greater root-to-top mass ratio. The much lower macroporosity in Turba coupled with the solid cemented nature of Turba aggregates resulted in production of thinner roots and therefore greater root length than in sand. Turba (manufactured from bauxite residue and compost added at 10% w/w) is a suitable medium for plant growth and there is no advantage in incorporating sand into, or with, the Turba aggregates.展开更多
As an important component of the global carbon cycle, forest soil organic carbon has a crucial impact on the stability of ecosystems and climate change. As one of the largest carbon pools in terrestrial ecosystems, th...As an important component of the global carbon cycle, forest soil organic carbon has a crucial impact on the stability of ecosystems and climate change. As one of the largest carbon pools in terrestrial ecosystems, the organic carbon stock in forest soils is of great significance for climate change and the health of forest ecosystems. This paper provides a comprehensive review of forest soil organic carbon, discussing its research progress, role, influencing factors, and future trends, with the aim of providing scientific evidence for forest soil carbon management to mitigate global climate change and promote the sustainable development of forest ecosystems.展开更多
Chemical fertilizers are a source of soil degradation. In order to mitigate soil degradation and to face the negative impacts of climate change, the use of organic fertilizers, accessible to small farmers can maintain...Chemical fertilizers are a source of soil degradation. In order to mitigate soil degradation and to face the negative impacts of climate change, the use of organic fertilizers, accessible to small farmers can maintain the productivity of cereals including rice. The objective of this experiment is to study the effect of organo-mineral fertilizers on soil chemical properties, growth and physiology parameters and yield of rice. For this purpose, a completely randomized block design with three replications was adopted. Different organic (Fertinova, Organova and Fertinova + Organova) and mineral (NPK + Urea) fertilizers were applied to cultivate the NERICA L19 variety of rice. The soil chemical properties (pH), germination rate, growth, yield and physiological (chlorophyll content) parameters were assessed. The results revealed a germination rate of the grains varying between 87.5 and 100%. Fertinova and Fertinova + Organova had the highest germination rates. Soil pH decreased significantly from initial (6.71 ± 0.01) to final (5.73 ± 0.04) with the development cycle of the rice. Organo-mineral fertilizers influenced significantly (p = 5.36e−09) soil chemical properties by increasing pH (4%) compared to Control. Analysis of variance on growth and yield parameters, yield and chlorophyll content revealed a significant difference (p < 0.05) between fertilizers. Growth and yield parameters and yield were significantly higher in NPK and Fertinova + Organova than in Fertinova, Organova and Control. For the biomass the NPK + Urea recorded significantly highest biomass (488.28 ± 60.83 g). Leaves chlorophyll content varied significantly according to the daytime and the status of leaf development. The higher chlorophyll content was recorded at noon (27.96 ± 0.32 SPAD value) and with young leaves (30.21 ± 0.35 SPAD value). NPK + Urea (29.36 ± 0.45 SPAD value) and Fertinova (27.78 ± 0.40 SPAD value) favored more chlorophyll content in the rice leaves. Rice performed better in NPK + Urea and Fertinova + Organova fertilizers.展开更多
Terrestrial invasive alien weed plants are known to infest cultivated land, potentially releasing allelochemicals into the rhizosphere during decomposition, negatively impacting crop growth. This study aimed to evalua...Terrestrial invasive alien weed plants are known to infest cultivated land, potentially releasing allelochemicals into the rhizosphere during decomposition, negatively impacting crop growth. This study aimed to evaluate: (1) the allelopathic activity of five invasive weed species (Ageratum conyzoides, Bidens pilosa, Cecropia peltata, Tithonia diversifolia, and Chromolaena odorata) on Lactuca sativa and Phaseolus vulgaris growth;and (2) the effects of A. conyzoides rhizospheric soil on P. vulgaris seed germination. Bioassays of aqueous and leachate extracts were prepared from fresh leaves of the invasive species at concentrations of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% to assess allelopathic effects on L. sativa and P. vulgaris seed germination. Additionally, rhizospheric soil from A. conyzoides stands was collected, processed, and applied at varied weights (0.5 - 7 kg) to P. vulgaris seeds, with germination observed over nine days. Polynomial regression analysis was applied to model the data. High-concentration extracts (75% and 100%) significantly inhibited germination, root, and shoot growth in both L. sativa and P. vulgaris (P 2 − 80.294922x3 + 41.541115x4 − 11.747532x5 + 1.8501702x6 − 0.1519795x7 + 0.0050631x8. Allelopathic effects were concentration-dependent, with roots more sensitive than shoots to the invasive extracts. L. sativa was the most susceptible, while P. vulgaris showed greater tolerance. Modelling the allelopathic impact of A. conyzoides rhizospheric soil offers valuable insight into the allelochemical dosage necessary to affect seed germination, informing potential agricultural management strategies for invasive plant control.展开更多
Lateritic soils are found over large areas in tropical countries where their suitability for road engineering is a real concern, both compositionally and mechanically. Mineralogical and geochemical characterization, a...Lateritic soils are found over large areas in tropical countries where their suitability for road engineering is a real concern, both compositionally and mechanically. Mineralogical and geochemical characterization, and profile description were carried out on Pliocene gravel lateritic soils from the Thies region to assess their suitability for road construction. These soils were sampled in Lam-Lam, Mont Rolland, Pout, Ngoundiane and Sindia borrow pits in that region. Minerals that make up these studied materials are quartz, kaolinite, hematite and goethite, identified by X-Ray Diffraction and confirmed with Infrared spectroscopy. This mineralogy is characteristic of lateritic soils which are concretionary structure and are formed in well-drained tropical regions like that of Thies. According to the chemical results, these gravel lateritic soils are poor in organic matter, OM 2/(Al2O3 + Fe2O3) Diop ternary diagram for classifying lateritic soils. Therefore, Thies materials are ferruginous lateritic soils, Al2O3/Fe2O3 < 1, containing non-swelling clay (kaolinite) and rich in gravelly nodules, S/CEC < 50wt%. As a result, these soils are compositionally suitable for road construction. These appreciated mineralogical, geochemical and pedological properties can now help overcome compositional challenges well before determining the bearing capacity of lateritic materials. This mechanical strength, which largely depends on their composition, is decisive in defining the optimal conditions for using lateritic materials in road geotechnics.展开更多
This work focused on determining the physico-chemical characteristics (pH, carbon and nitrogen) and trace metal elements (TMEs) content (As, Sb, Cd, Hg, Ni, Pb, Cr, Zn) of soils in the Brazzaville city. Soil samples w...This work focused on determining the physico-chemical characteristics (pH, carbon and nitrogen) and trace metal elements (TMEs) content (As, Sb, Cd, Hg, Ni, Pb, Cr, Zn) of soils in the Brazzaville city. Soil samples were taken from a depth of 0 to 20 cm using a hand auger on both banks of five tributaries of the Congo River (Djoué, Mfilou, Mfoa, Tsiémé, Djiri) that flow through the city of Brazzaville. 90 sampling points were defined, with 3 points 250 m apart on the banks and located, for each river, at three sites: upstream, midstream and downstream. Finally, 15 composite samples representative of the study area were taken. The average pH values of the water varied between 6.5 and 7.5. These pH values show that the soils studied are neutral. Total carbon content varied between 0.7% (Djiri) and 1.6% (Djoué). Total nitrogen content ranged from 0.08% (Djiri) to 0.12% (Djoué). TMEs contents varied from 0.5 to 1.8 mg/kg for Sb, from 0.5 to 2.5 mg/kg for As, from 0.1 to 0.18 mg/kg for Cd, from 4.2 to 11.3 mg/kg for Cr, from 0.07 to 0.27 mg/kg for Hg, from 0.7 to 2.4 mg/kg for Ni, from 0 to 158 mg/kg for Pb and from 16 to 105 mg/kg for Zn. The lowest TMEs levels were observed in the soils of the Djiri river, while the highest levels were observed in the soils of the Djoué and Tsiémé rivers. The ANOVA and Bonferroni test did not show significant differences in the means of the parameters measured (p > 0.05). The TMEs levels were below the accepted standards (NF U44-041), with the exception of Pb, which had high levels downstream of the Djoué. According to the pollution index values calculated using soil TME content, the soils on the banks of the Djoué river are considered polluted, while those on the banks of the Tsiémé river are moderately polluted, those on the banks of the Mfoa and Mfilou rivers are slightly polluted, and the soils on the banks of Djiri river are unpolluted.展开更多
基金Project(2016ZGHJ/XZHTL-YQSC-26)supported by the Key Scientific Research Project of China Gold GroupProject(SQ2019QZKK2806)supported by the Second Tibetan Plateau Scientific Expedition and Research(STEP)Program,China+1 种基金Project(300102268716)supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,ChinaProject(LHKA-G201701)supported by the Science and Technology Project of Yalong River Hydropower Development Company,China。
文摘To evaluate the geotechnical properties of coarse-grained soil affected by cyclic freeze-thaw,the electrical resistivity and mechanical tests are conducted.The soil specimens are prepared under different water contents,dry densities and exposed to 0?20 freeze-thaw cycles.As a result,the stress?strain behavior of the specimen(w=14.0%andρd=1.90 g/cm^3)changes from strain-hardening into strain-softening due to the freeze-thaw effect.The electrical resistivity of test specimen increases with the freeze-thaw cycles change,but the mechanical parameters(the unconfined compressive strength qu and the deformation modulus E)and brittleness index decrease considerably at the same conditions.All of them tend to be stable after 7?9 cycles.Moreover,both the dry density and the water content have reciprocal effects on the freeze-thaw actions.The failure and pore characteristics of specimens affected by freeze-thaw cycles are discussed by using the image analysis method.Then,an exponential function equation is developed to assess the electrical resistivity of specimens affected by the cyclic freeze-thaw.Linear relations between the mechanical parameters and the electrical resistivity of specimens are established to evaluate the geotechnical properties of the soil exposed to freeze-thaw actions through the corresponding electrical resistivity.
基金Project(50639050) supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and Er-Tan Hydraulicpower Limited CompanyProject(50579014) supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China+3 种基金Project(09KJD560003) supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions of ChinaProject(BK2007582) supported by Jiangsu Provincial Natural Science Foundation of ChinaProject(20070294002) supported by the Specialized Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education of ChinaProject(GH200904) supported by Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Geomechanics and Embankment Engineering,Hohai University,China
文摘In order to investigate the influence of intermediate principal stress on the stress-strain and strength behaviour of a coarse-grained soil, a series of true triaxial tests were performed. The tests were conducted in a recently developed true triaxial apparatus with constant minor principal stress σ3 and constant value of intermediate principal stress ratio b=（σ2-σ3）/（σ1-σ3） （al is the vertical stress, and % is the horizontal stress）. It is found that the intermediate principal strain, ε2, increases from negative to positive value with the increase of parameter b from zero to unity under a constant minor principal stress. The minor principal strain, ε3, is always negative. This implies that the specimen exhibits an evident anisotropy. The relationship between b and friction angle obtained from the tests is different from that predicted by LADE-DUNCAN and MATSUOKA-NAKAI criteria. Based on the test results, an empirical equation of g（b） that is the shape function of the failure surface on re-plane was presented. The proposed equation is verified to be reasonable by comparing the predicted results using the equation with true triaxial test results of soils, such as coarse-grained soils in this study, sands and gravels in other studies.
基金Project(2018YFC1508505)supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of ChinaProject(U1865104)supported by Yalong River Joint Fund of Natural Science Foundation of China-Yalong River Basin Hydropower Development Co.,Ltd.,China+1 种基金Project(51479052)supported by National Natural Science of ChinaProject(2019T120443)supported by China Postdoctoral Science Foundation。
文摘Gradation equation is one way to describe the gradation of coarse-grained soil conveniently,exactly and quantitatively.With the gradation equation,the influence of gradation on the mechanical behaviors of coarse-grained soil can be expressed quantitatively.A new gradation equation with a parameter is proposed.The basic properties and applicability of the new equation are studied.The results show that the proposed equation has the applicability to express coarse-grained soil gradation(CSG),and the range of the parameter β is found to be 0<β<1.The value ofbdetermines the gradation curve shape.If β>0.5,the gradation curve is sigmoidal,otherwise the gradation curve is hyperbolic.For well graded gradations,the parameter has the value of 0.13<β<1.Several CSGs used in domestic and foreign earth-rockfill dams are probed,and the value of the parameterbfalls in the range of 0.18 to 0.97.The investigation of the range of β is of value to guide the design for CSG of earth-rockfill dam.
基金Project(50908233)supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaProject(2008G031-Q)supported by National Engineering Laboratory for High Speed Railway Construction,China
文摘By using large scale triaxial shearing apparatus,consolidated-drained shear tests were conducted on coarse-grained soil with different gradations.In order to describe their deformation rules,three main characteristics of tangent Poisson ratio curves were summarized and the reason was revealed by dividing the movement of soil particles into two kinds: the movement of fine particles and the movement of coarse particles.Then,a volumetric strain expression and a tangent Poisson ratio expression were put forward,and two defects of widely used Duncan-Chang model were fixed.Results calculated from them agree well with test results.There are three parameters,namely L,G and F,in this new model.Parameter L reflects the dilatancy of a specimen and L=4 can be used as a criterion to estimate whether a certain kind of soil has dilatancy quality or not.Parameters G and F relate to the initial slope of tangent Poisson ratio curves,and G=F=0 indicates a special situation which happens in dense granular material of the same diameter.Influences of various gradations on volume deformation are mainly reflected in parameter L which is smaller when there are more gravels in specimens.
基金supported by the National Key Technology Support Program of China (No.2012BAG05B00)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 51208320 and 51178281)the Key Subject of China Railway Corporation (Nos. 2014G003-F and 2014G003-A)
文摘This paper aims to determine the optimal fines content of coarse-grained soil required to simultaneously achieve weaker frost susceptibility and better bearing capacity. We studied the frost susceptibility and strength properties of coarse-grained soil by means of frost heaving tests and static triaxial tests, and the results are as follows： （1） the freezing temperature of coarse-grained soil decreased gradually and then leveled off with incremental increases in the percent content of fines; （2） the fines content proved to be an important factor influencing the frost heave susceptibility and strength properties of coarse-grained soil. With incremental increases in the percent content of fines, the frost heave ratio increased gradually and the cohesion function of fines effectively enhanced the shear strength of coarse-grained soil before freeze-thaw, but the frost susceptibility of fines weakened the shear strength of coarse-grained soil after freeze-thaw; （3） with increasing numbers of freeze-thaw cycles, the shear strength of coarse-grained soil decreased and then stabilized after the ninth freeze-thaw cycle, and therefore the mechanical indexes of the ninth freeze-thaw cycle are recommended for the engi- neering design values; and （4） considering frost susceptibility and strength properties as a whole, the optimal fines content of 5% is recommended for railway sub,fade coarse-~rained soil fillings in frozen re^ions.
基金This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.51878666 and 51678572).
文摘Practical assessment of subgrade settlement induced by train operation requires developing suitable models capable of describing permanent deformation characteristics of subgrade filling under repeated dynamic loading.In this paper,repeated load triaxial tests were performed on coarse-grained soil(CGS),and the axial permanent strain of CGS under different confining pressures and dynamic stress amplitudes was analysed.Permanent deformation behaviors of CGS were categorized based on the variation trend of permanent strain rate with accumulated permanent strain and the shakedown theory.A prediction model of permanent deformation considering stress state and number of load cycles was established,and the ranges of parameters for different types of dynamic behaviors were also divided.The results indicated that the variational trend of permanent strain rate with accumulated permanent strain can be used as a basis for classifying dynamic behaviors of CGS.The stress state(confining pressure and dynamic stress amplitude)has significant effects on the permanent strain rate.The accumulative characteristics of permanent deformation of CGS with the number of load cycles can be described by a power function,and the model parameters can reflect the influence of confining pressure and dynamic stress amplitude.The study’s results could help deepen understanding of the permanent deformation characteristics of CGS.
基金supported by the National Basic Research Program of China(973 program,Grant No.2012CB026104)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.41271072,41371081 and 51378057)
文摘The stress produced by repeated train loads decreases with increasing railway subgrade bed depth, and slightly weathered coarse particles of subgrade bed fillings can be broken at different levels under continuous load. Thus, the mass of fine soil, with a diameter of not more than 0.075 mm, is different at different depths. Fine soil is also sensitive to frost heave and thaw settlement. In order to study the effects of non-uniformly distributed fine soil on the mechanical properties of coarse-grained soil of the Shenyang-Dandong Railway, triaxial tests were conducted with three types of specimens, un- dergoing six freeze-thaw cycle numbers （0, 1, 3, 7, 9, 12） and three confining pressures （100, 200, 300 kPa）. The freezing temperature is -5 ~C and the thawing temperature is ＋15 ~C. The stress-strain behavior, static strength, resilient modulus, cohesive force and the angle of internal friction were measured for different tested specimens. As a result, the law of static strength and resilient modulus of different specimens following the increase of freeze-thaw cycles under three confining pressures is obtained. The changing law of cohesive force and friction angle of three specimens following the increase of freeze-thaw cycles is also calculated, and the different results of different specimens are also compared.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China[Grant No.41731288 and 41972299]Task of Science and Technology R&D Program of China Railway Corporation[Grant No.P2018G050]by the R&D Fund Project of China Academy of Railway Science Corporation Limited[Grant No.2019YJ026]。
文摘Purpose–This study aims to propose a semiempirical and semitheoretical cyclic compaction constitutive model of coarse-grained soil filler for the high-speed railway(HSR)subgrade under cyclic load.Design/methodology/approach–According to the basic framework of critical state soil mechanics and in view of the characteristics of the coarse-grained soil filler for the HSR subgrade to bear the train vibration load repeatedly for a long time,the hyperbolic empirical relationship between particle breakage and plastic work was derived.Considering the influence of cyclic vibration time and stress ratio,the particle breakage correction function of coarse-grained soil filler for the HSR subgrade under cyclic load was proposed.According to the classical theory of plastic mechanics,the shearing dilatation equation of the coarse-grained soil filler for the HSR subgrade considering particle breakage was modified and obtained.A semiempirical and semitheoretical cyclic compaction constitutive model of coarse-grained soil filler for the HSR subgrade under cyclic load was further established.The backward Euler method was used to discretize the constitutive equation,build a numerical algorithm of“elastic prediction and plastic modification”and make a secondary development of the program to solve the cyclic compaction model.Findings–Through the comparison with the result of laboratory triaxial test under the cyclic loading of coarse-grained soil filler for the HSR subgrade,the accuracy and applicability of the cyclic compaction model were verified.Results show that the model can accurately predict the cumulative deformation characteristics of coarse-grained soil filler for the HSR subgrade under the train vibration loading repeatedly for a long time.It considers the effects of particle breakage and stress ratio,which can be used to calculate and analyze the stress and deformation evolution law of the subgrade structure for HSR.
基金supported by the National Nature Science Foundation of China (Grant No.42072303)the State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection Independent Research Project (Grant No.SKLGP2021Z004).
文摘Seepage in coarse-grained soil exhibits distinct non-Darcy characteristics,and the transition from linear to nonlinear seepage significantly affects the hydraulic characteristics and geotechnical applications.Due to the complexity of pore structure in heterogeneous coarse-grained soil,identifying the critical threshold for the transition from Darcy to non-Darcy seepage is challenging.This paper introduces equivalent particle size(dep)and relative roughness(λt)as indirect indicators reflecting the pore characteristics,quantifying the complex pore structure of heterogeneous coarse-grained soil.The formulae for the derivation of Reynolds number and resistance coefficient for heterogeneous coarse-grained soil are presented.By conducting permeability tests on coarse-grained soils with different pore structures,the effect of particle composition heterogeneity on seepage characteristics was analyzed.The flow regime of heterogeneous coarse-grained soil is divided into laminar,transitional,and turbulent stages based on the relationship between Reynolds number and resistance coefficient.The energy loss patterns in each stage are closely related to pore structure.By setting the permeability ratio k∗=0.95 as the critical threshold for the transition from Darcy to non-Darcy seepage,a method for calculating the critical Reynolds number(Recr)for heterogeneous coarse-grained soil is proposed.Furthermore,we applied this method to other published laboratory data,analyzing the differences in the critical threshold for seepage transition between homogeneous and heterogeneous coarse-grained soil.This study aims to propose a more accurate and general criterion for the transition from Darcy to non-Darcy seepage in heterogeneous coarse-grained soil.
文摘The presence of particles larger than the permissible dimensions of conventional laboratory specimens causes difficulty in the determination of shear strength of coarse-grained soils. In this research, the influence of particle size on shear strength of coarse-grained soils was investigated by resorting to experimental tests in different scale and numerical simulations based on discrete element method （DEM）. Experimental tests on such soil specimens were based on using the techniques designated as ＂parallel＂ and ＂scalping＂ to prepare gradation of samples in view of the limitation of laboratory specimen size. As a second approach, the direct shear test was numerically simulated on assemblies of elliptical particles. The behaviors of samples under experimental and numerical tests are presented and compared, indicating that the modification of sample gradation has a significant influence on the mechanical properties of coarse-grained soils. It is noted that the shear strengths of samples produced by the scalping method are higher than samples by the parallel method. The scalping method for preparing specimens for direct shear test is therefore recommended. The micromechanical behavior of assemblies under direct shear test is also discussed and the effects of stress level on sample behavior are investigated.
文摘This work used a modified direct shear apparatus, created newly by the authors, to explore effects of the gap between shear box halves and specimen size on the shear resistance of coarse-grained soil. The shear boxes of this apparatus were assembled from a series of steel structures capable of superimposition and nesting. Such characteristics facilitated variation of specimen size in both diameter and height. The new device can also maintain a constant gap during shearing. We performed a series of gap-effect and size-effect tests for two uniformly graded, coarse^grained soil samples. The test results showed that both the gap space and specimen size bad significant influences on shear resistance of the coarse-grained soil. Further, analysis of variations in shear strength indices led to a reasonable gap dimension and specimen size of the two soil samples.
基金Funded by the Technology Innovation Leading Program of Shaanxi(No.2022QFY08-02)。
文摘The effects of ultrafine WC(WC_(UF),0.5μm) or W(1μm) and C(0.3μm)(W+C)_(UF) additives on the densification,microstructure and mechanical properties of coarse-grained cemented carbides were compared systematically.Overall,the cemented carbides with WC_(UF)/(W+C)_(UF) additives are almost fully densification to be higher than 99%,and the average grain size is kept above 2.8μm.The WC_(UF) additive assists grains to(truncated)trigonal prism shape by two dimensional(2D) growth,whereas the(W+C)_(UF) additive assists grains to rounded shape by three dimensional(3D) growth,lowers WC contiguity and increases face-centered-cubic Co.The hardness and bending strength of(75WC_(C)-15WC_(UF))-10Co are 86.6 HRA and 2 272 MPa,respectively,both higher than those of(75WC_(C)-15(W+C)_(UF))-10Co,which could be ascribed to the enhanced densification and unblemished grains.However,the fracture toughness of the(75WC_(C)-15(W+C)_(UF))-10Co is 23.5 MPa·m^(1/2),higher than that of the(75WC_(C)-15WC_(UF))-10Co due to the uniform WC-Co structure and flexible binder phase.
文摘Expansive soils, prone to being influenced by the environmental conditions, undergo expansion when water is introduced and shrinkage upon drying. This persistent volumetric fluctuation can induce differential movements and result in cracking of structures erected upon them. The present research focuses on characterizing the behavior of pavements erected on expansive clays subjected to swelling and shrinkage cycles. Direct shear tests and oedometer tests were conducted in the laboratory on samples of expansive soils undergoing swelling-shrinkage cycles. The experimental data reveal a significant decrease in shear strength, evidenced by a reduction in shear parameters (internal friction angle, cohesion) and a decrease in the modulus of elasticity as the number of cycles increases. A numerical model based on the finite element method was developed to simulate the behavior of a pavement on an expansive clay substrate. The model results indicate an increase in total displacements with the increase in the number of shrinkage-swelling cycles, demonstrating a progressive degradation of the soil’s mechanical behavior. This study contributes to a better understanding of the complex phenomena governing the behavior of expansive soils and serves as a foundation for developing effective management and mitigation strategies for road infrastructures.
文摘Soil integrity and fertility is on high risk due to water erosion, it’s not only disturbed cropping practices but also damages the ecosystem of the land. In this study, the combination of GIS and RUSLE modeling are used to compute average yearly soil erosion rate in Baltistan Division of Gilgit. R, K, LS C & P Factors were computed to determine average Annual Soil Loss (ASL) which came out to be 6.68 tons/hectare/year. Higher altitudes, which are primarily covered in glaciers and watersheds, depicts maximum value of ASL when compared with lower altitude. Study area may witness a rise in soil loss due to soil texture and change in rain pattern (due to climate change). The maps developed during the study can also be referred to develop planning of land management strategy against soil erosion.
文摘A new manufactured soil product (Turba) was produced using acidified bauxite residue into which 10% green waste compost had been incorporated. A laboratory/greenhouse experiment was carried out to determine if sand could be used as an ingredient or an amendment for Turba. Sand was added at rates of 0%, 5%, 10%, 25, 50% and 75% (w/w) in two different ways 1) by incorporating it into the Turba during its manufacture (IN) or 2) by mixing it with Turba aggregates after their manufacture (OUT). Incorporation of sand into Turba aggregates (IN) decreased the percentage of sample present as large aggregates (2 - 4 mm dia.) after crushing and sieving (<4 mm) and also reduced the stability of 2 - 4 mm dia. formed aggregates (to dry/wet sieving) and are therefore not recommended. In a 16-week greenhouse study, ryegrass shoot yields were greater in Turba than in sand [and decreased with increasing sand additions (OUT)] while root dry matter showed the opposite trend. The greater grass growth in Turba than sand was attributed to incipit water stress in plants grown in sand and this may have promoted greater allocation of assimilates to roots resulting in a greater root-to-top mass ratio. The much lower macroporosity in Turba coupled with the solid cemented nature of Turba aggregates resulted in production of thinner roots and therefore greater root length than in sand. Turba (manufactured from bauxite residue and compost added at 10% w/w) is a suitable medium for plant growth and there is no advantage in incorporating sand into, or with, the Turba aggregates.
文摘As an important component of the global carbon cycle, forest soil organic carbon has a crucial impact on the stability of ecosystems and climate change. As one of the largest carbon pools in terrestrial ecosystems, the organic carbon stock in forest soils is of great significance for climate change and the health of forest ecosystems. This paper provides a comprehensive review of forest soil organic carbon, discussing its research progress, role, influencing factors, and future trends, with the aim of providing scientific evidence for forest soil carbon management to mitigate global climate change and promote the sustainable development of forest ecosystems.
文摘Chemical fertilizers are a source of soil degradation. In order to mitigate soil degradation and to face the negative impacts of climate change, the use of organic fertilizers, accessible to small farmers can maintain the productivity of cereals including rice. The objective of this experiment is to study the effect of organo-mineral fertilizers on soil chemical properties, growth and physiology parameters and yield of rice. For this purpose, a completely randomized block design with three replications was adopted. Different organic (Fertinova, Organova and Fertinova + Organova) and mineral (NPK + Urea) fertilizers were applied to cultivate the NERICA L19 variety of rice. The soil chemical properties (pH), germination rate, growth, yield and physiological (chlorophyll content) parameters were assessed. The results revealed a germination rate of the grains varying between 87.5 and 100%. Fertinova and Fertinova + Organova had the highest germination rates. Soil pH decreased significantly from initial (6.71 ± 0.01) to final (5.73 ± 0.04) with the development cycle of the rice. Organo-mineral fertilizers influenced significantly (p = 5.36e−09) soil chemical properties by increasing pH (4%) compared to Control. Analysis of variance on growth and yield parameters, yield and chlorophyll content revealed a significant difference (p < 0.05) between fertilizers. Growth and yield parameters and yield were significantly higher in NPK and Fertinova + Organova than in Fertinova, Organova and Control. For the biomass the NPK + Urea recorded significantly highest biomass (488.28 ± 60.83 g). Leaves chlorophyll content varied significantly according to the daytime and the status of leaf development. The higher chlorophyll content was recorded at noon (27.96 ± 0.32 SPAD value) and with young leaves (30.21 ± 0.35 SPAD value). NPK + Urea (29.36 ± 0.45 SPAD value) and Fertinova (27.78 ± 0.40 SPAD value) favored more chlorophyll content in the rice leaves. Rice performed better in NPK + Urea and Fertinova + Organova fertilizers.
文摘Terrestrial invasive alien weed plants are known to infest cultivated land, potentially releasing allelochemicals into the rhizosphere during decomposition, negatively impacting crop growth. This study aimed to evaluate: (1) the allelopathic activity of five invasive weed species (Ageratum conyzoides, Bidens pilosa, Cecropia peltata, Tithonia diversifolia, and Chromolaena odorata) on Lactuca sativa and Phaseolus vulgaris growth;and (2) the effects of A. conyzoides rhizospheric soil on P. vulgaris seed germination. Bioassays of aqueous and leachate extracts were prepared from fresh leaves of the invasive species at concentrations of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% to assess allelopathic effects on L. sativa and P. vulgaris seed germination. Additionally, rhizospheric soil from A. conyzoides stands was collected, processed, and applied at varied weights (0.5 - 7 kg) to P. vulgaris seeds, with germination observed over nine days. Polynomial regression analysis was applied to model the data. High-concentration extracts (75% and 100%) significantly inhibited germination, root, and shoot growth in both L. sativa and P. vulgaris (P 2 − 80.294922x3 + 41.541115x4 − 11.747532x5 + 1.8501702x6 − 0.1519795x7 + 0.0050631x8. Allelopathic effects were concentration-dependent, with roots more sensitive than shoots to the invasive extracts. L. sativa was the most susceptible, while P. vulgaris showed greater tolerance. Modelling the allelopathic impact of A. conyzoides rhizospheric soil offers valuable insight into the allelochemical dosage necessary to affect seed germination, informing potential agricultural management strategies for invasive plant control.
文摘Lateritic soils are found over large areas in tropical countries where their suitability for road engineering is a real concern, both compositionally and mechanically. Mineralogical and geochemical characterization, and profile description were carried out on Pliocene gravel lateritic soils from the Thies region to assess their suitability for road construction. These soils were sampled in Lam-Lam, Mont Rolland, Pout, Ngoundiane and Sindia borrow pits in that region. Minerals that make up these studied materials are quartz, kaolinite, hematite and goethite, identified by X-Ray Diffraction and confirmed with Infrared spectroscopy. This mineralogy is characteristic of lateritic soils which are concretionary structure and are formed in well-drained tropical regions like that of Thies. According to the chemical results, these gravel lateritic soils are poor in organic matter, OM 2/(Al2O3 + Fe2O3) Diop ternary diagram for classifying lateritic soils. Therefore, Thies materials are ferruginous lateritic soils, Al2O3/Fe2O3 < 1, containing non-swelling clay (kaolinite) and rich in gravelly nodules, S/CEC < 50wt%. As a result, these soils are compositionally suitable for road construction. These appreciated mineralogical, geochemical and pedological properties can now help overcome compositional challenges well before determining the bearing capacity of lateritic materials. This mechanical strength, which largely depends on their composition, is decisive in defining the optimal conditions for using lateritic materials in road geotechnics.
文摘This work focused on determining the physico-chemical characteristics (pH, carbon and nitrogen) and trace metal elements (TMEs) content (As, Sb, Cd, Hg, Ni, Pb, Cr, Zn) of soils in the Brazzaville city. Soil samples were taken from a depth of 0 to 20 cm using a hand auger on both banks of five tributaries of the Congo River (Djoué, Mfilou, Mfoa, Tsiémé, Djiri) that flow through the city of Brazzaville. 90 sampling points were defined, with 3 points 250 m apart on the banks and located, for each river, at three sites: upstream, midstream and downstream. Finally, 15 composite samples representative of the study area were taken. The average pH values of the water varied between 6.5 and 7.5. These pH values show that the soils studied are neutral. Total carbon content varied between 0.7% (Djiri) and 1.6% (Djoué). Total nitrogen content ranged from 0.08% (Djiri) to 0.12% (Djoué). TMEs contents varied from 0.5 to 1.8 mg/kg for Sb, from 0.5 to 2.5 mg/kg for As, from 0.1 to 0.18 mg/kg for Cd, from 4.2 to 11.3 mg/kg for Cr, from 0.07 to 0.27 mg/kg for Hg, from 0.7 to 2.4 mg/kg for Ni, from 0 to 158 mg/kg for Pb and from 16 to 105 mg/kg for Zn. The lowest TMEs levels were observed in the soils of the Djiri river, while the highest levels were observed in the soils of the Djoué and Tsiémé rivers. The ANOVA and Bonferroni test did not show significant differences in the means of the parameters measured (p > 0.05). The TMEs levels were below the accepted standards (NF U44-041), with the exception of Pb, which had high levels downstream of the Djoué. According to the pollution index values calculated using soil TME content, the soils on the banks of the Djoué river are considered polluted, while those on the banks of the Tsiémé river are moderately polluted, those on the banks of the Mfoa and Mfilou rivers are slightly polluted, and the soils on the banks of Djiri river are unpolluted.
