Prediction of Swelling Pressure of Clays

The mathematical formulation of the swelling pressure of pure clay was verified experimentally by Bolt (1956). However, in naturally occurring clays a statistical model is preferable, with chemico-physical properties such as specific surface area or particle spacing represented by simple indicative parameters. This study was carried out with basic theoretical concepts in mind. An attempt was made to relate the parameters. Good statistical correlation was found to exist between swelling pressure and a combined function of initial dry density, moisture content, and liquid limit. Bolt’s mathematical formulation was used to derive an expression relating the compression index to the liquid limit.