Laboratory testing of Syncrude sand

Abstract

The effects of sample reconstituting technique and stress path on the static undrained behaviour of Syncrude tailings sand were evaluated. Test procedures (consolidation and undrained shear) developed for installation and thawing of undisturbed Syncrude sand specimens retrieved after in-situ ground freezing were also described, and their success was evaluated. Deformations during thawing were monitored to serve as an index of possible disturbance on account of the freeze-thaw cycle. Significant differences in the undrained response of Syncrude sand were observed with each variation in the the method of specimen reconstitution. In consequence of these variations, it was found to be essential to duplicate in-situ density and fabric during laboratory reconstitution to ensure the applicability of the laboratory results in the field. The undrained response was also shown to be strongly dependent on the stress path during loading. Strongest deformation was observed in triaxial compression, the weakest in triaxial extension.5 figs., 19 refs.