Geotechnical Properties of Compressible Materials Used for Induced Trench Construction

Abstract

Abstract Results of a testing program to measure the compressibility and shear strength parameters of compressible fill materials commonly used for induced trench construction are presented. The geotechnical properties of sawdust, wood chips, and hay have been determined. A large-scale consolidometer and direct shear testing apparatus were used to perform the tests. To resolve strain compatibility issues, the mobilized friction angle corresponding to an appropriate shear displacement value is reported. The experimental results are compared to geotechnical properties of several other compressible materials reported in the literature that also have been used in induced trench applications. The results presented in this paper can be used to perform numerical modeling of induced trenches where these compressible materials are commonly used.