The suction method for estimating the shear strength of soils from plasticity data and moisture content has been examined in the light of a wide range of experimental evidence; it is concluded that the method predicts changes in strength of a wide range of soils satisfactorily. The method has been used to quantify the likely changes in moisture content and strength under a range of site conditions. Very wet weather during construction on a poorly drained site reduces markedly the ultimate equilibrium strength of subgrades of low plasticity; equilibrium values are less than half the values associated with construction in dry weather. Heavy clays are much less affected. Deflection studies indicate that the life of a pavement built in very wet weather may be reduced by up to 50 per cent of the life expected of a pavement constructed during average weather conditions. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting