IMPROVEMENT OF MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF SANDY AND GRAVELLY SOILS BY SHORT FIBERS MIXING

Abstract

 The applicability of short fiber reinforcement technology to embankment materials such as sandy and gravelly soils was investigated. Discrete and flexible linear vinylon fibers with a length of 30 mm and a diameter of 0.5 mm were used and selected based on their potential dispersibility. Optimum fiber contents could be determined from the results of mixing tests. Series of plane strain compression tests were performed, and results confirmed that the strength and deformation characteristics of the tested sandy and gravelly soils could be steadily improved due to vinylon fibers mixing. The underlying reinforcing mechanisms include the reduction of shear displacement of soil particles by the flexural rigidity of the fibers, resulting into an increase in soil particles interlocking.