Abstract
The bearing capacity and compressibility of a calcareous sand were examined by drained triaxial compression tests and laboratory model tests on strip footings 51mm by 305mm. The tests were carried out on two sands-a calcareous sand having a carbonate content of 18% and a clean sand obtained by washing the calcareous sand with Hydrochloric Acid (HCI) and water. All tests were performed at a relative density of 66%. The results indicate increased compressibility and no change in the peak strength parameters due to the presence of carbonates. The bearing capacity of the calcareous sand was smaller than that of the clean silica sand. Various methods of analysis were discussed to account for the effect of compressibility on bearing capacity.
