Experimental Analysis of the Influence of Soil Composition on Strength Characteristics

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of soil composition on soil strength by performing direct shear test on various samples, including artificial soil with different components, artificial mixed soil with different amounts, natural soil with different moisture contents, and sandy soil with different sizes. The test results show that soil strength is determined by the joint effect of inter-particle friction and cohesion. Mineral composition and water content are the main factors affecting clay strength. Changes in the mineral composition and water content of clay alter the contact state and connection of its particles, thereby significantly affecting the macroscopic properties of the soil. Different grain compositions modified the shear deformation characteristics by altering the arrangement and intergranular engagement of the particles, consequently affecting the strength. The results of this study provide further insight into the micro and fine mechanism of the soil shear strength characteristics of different components. This study also offers guiding significance in engineering practice.