Semi-empirical model for the prediction of modulus of elasticity for unsaturated soils

Abstract

A semi-empirical model is proposed in this paper to predict the variation of modulus of elasticity with respect to matric suction for unsaturated sandy soils using the soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC) and the modulus of elasticity under saturated conditions. Using this model, comparisons are provided between the predicted and measured moduli of elasticity and elastic settlements from model footing test results on three different sandy soils. The results of this study are encouraging as there is good agreement between the predicted and measured moduli of elasticity and settlements.