Effect of Structural Fill on Bearing Capacity of Soil

Abstract

This research deals with the concept of natural soil in terms of how the composition, properties, size, shape of grains, strength, and classified, and singled to discuss bearing capacity of the soil, where are the most important topics in soil engineering. Also the research deals with different types of bearing capacity and how can be determined from equations and plate load test, and to compare them. The research identifies structural fills which used in embankments, and their properties and laboratory tests to determine their quality and suitability for use. Various types of structural fill materials were collected from different areas were used in the research. These soils were tested in the laboratory and classified, and one of them was chosen as a model for the plate load test. A Steel box with a specific dimension was used as a model for the plate load test. The selected structural fill was placed in the box in layers, and each layer compacted and tested to find value of bearing capacity. Also field density test has been carried out on each layer. The bearing capacity values were calculated using Terzaghi’s bearing capacity equations. A comparison between the bearing capacity values for each layer had been done. It was found that all structural fill samples used are classified as clay of medium plasticity. The bearing capacity value for a soil layer measured by plate load test was initially decreased and then increased with increasing the thickness of the layers and more compaction process. It is also concluded thatthe better compaction of a soil layer result in values of bearing capacity from equations and plate load test are very close.