Estimation of strength and deformation properties of Quaternary caliche deposits

Dincer I., Acar A., URAL S.

BULLETIN OF ENGINEERING GEOLOGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT, vol.67, no.3, pp.353-366, 2008 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 67 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2008
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/s10064-008-0146-1
  • Journal Name: BULLETIN OF ENGINEERING GEOLOGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.353-366
  • Keywords: hardpan, caliche, geomechanical properties, index properties, Adana, UNCONFINED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH, YOUNGS MODULUS, HARDNESS
  • Çukurova University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate statistical models for predicting the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) and average Young's modulus (E-av) for caliches, using some index and physical properties. The caliche samples, from Adana, southern Turkey, were of low strength and difficult to sample. X-ray diffraction and microscopy were undertaken and the following physical parameters established: unit weight, apparent porosity, Schmidt rebound number, Shore hardness, P-wave velocity, slake durability, point load, uniaxial compressive strength and average Young's modulus. Simple and linear regression variable selection analyses were performed. The best relationships were obtained for UCS with P-wave velocity and unit weight and for average Young's modulus with P-wave velocity, porosity and slake durability. Empirical equations are proposed, although it is emphasised that these may only be applicable for caliche of a similar geological character.