Undrained Shear Strength of Selected Soils in Hilla City Using Torvane Device

Abstract

This investigation is carried out to study the shear strength of soils using the new Torvane technical device in three selected sites in the studied area, which are Al-Thyala, Al-Bakaerly, and Street 80 in Hilla city. The physical indexes and engineering properties tests were used to determine the natural water content, Atterberg limits, particle size distribution of soils, shear strength of soils by Torvane Technical, moisture-density relationships of soils and unconfined compressive strength. Undisturbed samples were extracted from depths more than 150 cm by cylinder cores. The chemical tests included sulfate content, gypsum content, total dissolved salts and pH value test. The results revealed that shear strength of soils is reduced when the plasticity index and natural moisture content increased. The results from the Torvane technical device tests of the soils revealed that the Torvane technical device is very easy, quick and accepted and it is in demand for engineering uses and may be used in laboratory and field.