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Abstract:
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Modifications in micro-structural and textural conditions in unconsolidated geo-materials due to changes in effective stress inherently affect their stability and strength. These conditions result in geo-hazards (e.g., landslides, liquefaction, debris flow) which often claim so many lives, destroy the environment and cause considerable amounts of property damage. The influence of effective stress on the geophysical and geotechnical properties of sand-clay mixtures is investigated in a laboratory environment. Spectral electrical response (SER) measurements are performed on these mixtures over a range of frequencies (0.001Hz-10kHz). Useful electrical parameters are extracted from the responses and related to the relevant petrophysical/geotechnical parameters, that is, the void ratio, dry density and the modulus of elasticity. These relations can be useful in predicting the physical, mechanical and geotechnical properties of unconsolidated geo-materials in transition from frame-supported to suspensions or (from high to low effective stress). Insights and understanding gained from the laboratory measurements will be useful in achieving the ultimate goal of using non-invasive geophysical methods to monitor and assess the potential instabilities in unconsolidated geo-materials supporting sensitive structures.
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