Thesis (M. Phil.)--University of Hong Kong, 1997. / Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis (Ph.D.)--Memorial University of Newfoundland, 1999. / Bibliography: leaves 360-373.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Texas at Austin, 2006. / Vita. Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis (Ph.D.)--Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, 2008. / Includes bibliographical references.

This thesis presents a study into the influence of suction on the compressibility and swelling characteristics of a broad range of reconstituted clay soils. Soil water relationships are explored, discussing evaporation, shrinkage, swelling and the development of suction. A comprehensive review of suction measurement techniques is detailed, identifying operating principles, performance and limitations of each technique. For the main experimental programme a new, osmotically suction controlled oedometer has been developed. The oedometer utilises the osmotic potential of a large molecular weight salt (polyethylene glycol) across a semi-permeable membrane to control matrix suctions in the sample during testing. Independent continuous measurement of the suction in the sample during testing is made using the Imperial College tensiometer. Four materials have been assessed. Kaolin, London clay, and two expansive soils from Kenya. A series of suction controlled stress path tests were carried out on the four materials. In addition intrinsic and soil moisture characteristics were determined and discussed. Routine soil classification tests, mineralogy and SEM studies were also carried out. The results are presented and discussed, and recommendations for future research made.

The development of Marchetti's flat dilatometer, method of testing, changes of Marchetti's (1980,1981) original correlations and Schmertmann's (1982,1983) proposed correlations are briefly described. Factors affecting results of the dilatometer test (DMT) are discussed. In order to improve the understanding of the Marchetti dilatometer test (DMT), an electronic research dilatometer was developed at UBC. The research dilatometer can measure; pore pressure at the center of the membrane, membrane displacement, applied pressure, pushing force and verticality. Test results obtained from the research dilatometer in sand and in clayey deposits at 4 sites in the Lower Mainland of B.C. are presented. Soil parameters interpretated using Marchetti's (1980,1981) and Schmertmann's (1982,1983) correlations are discussed. Comparison is made to other in-situ testing methods such as cone penetration test, vane shear test and pressuremeter test. Based on a better understanding of the DMT, future potential methods of improving or checking the existing correlations are proposed. / Applied Science, Faculty of / Civil Engineering, Department of / Graduate

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