Stabilization of Collapsible Soils: Challenges, Methods, and Engineering Considerations

Collapsible soils are a type of unsaturated soil that experiences a sudden reduction in volume when subjected to wetting under load. This behavior can cause serious damage to foundations, roads, and other civil engineering structures. Such soils are commonly found in arid and semi arid regions and often contain loose, porous structures bonded by weak cementing agents such as clay, gypsum, or salts. When water infiltrates the soil, these bonds dissolve or weaken, leading to a rapid collapse of the soil structure. Stabilization of collapsible soils is therefore a critical aspect of geotechnical engineering. Various techniques have been developed to mitigate the potential for collapse, including mechanical compaction, chemical stabilization with additives such as lime and cement, and pre-wetting. The selection of an appropriate stabilization technique depends on soil properties, environmental conditions, and project requirements. Understanding the mechanisms of soil collapse and the effectiveness of stabilization methods helps engineers design safer and more durable infrastructure.

کلیدواژه ها:

Collapsible Soils ، Soil Stabilization ، Geotechnical Engineering ، Collapse Potential ، Chemical Stabilization