The effectiveness of electrodes types on electroosmosis in Kahang Clay

Abstract

The main problem face by geotechnical engineering in construction is the low permeability, low strength and low bearing capacity on clayey soil. Sometimes the soil or fill material cannot reach the required specification in geotechnical aspect and need to be improved. In this project electro-osmosis is used to stabilize Kahang clay which is known to have low strength but high compressibility. For that reason, soil improvements have to be undertaken so that loads can be applied without causing settlement or cause of bearing capacity failure. Methods such as lime stabilization, pumping and ploughing are used to stabilize the clay. In addition clay can also be stabilized by applying an external electric current. This phenomenon is called electro osmosis. The process involves passing a direct current through a soil mass to cause changes in the soils properties. Electro-osmosis process can be carried out by using dissolution of the anode material into the soil or introduction of chemicals in solution at anode. This study used the method of dissolution anode material were applied for Kahang Clay treatment. The objectives of this study is to investigate the effect of electro-osmosis on shear strength of Kahang Clay, evaluate the effect of dewatering due to electro-osmosis process and study the effect of various types of electrodes on electro-osmosis. The effectiveness of different type of electrodes namely ferum, aluminium, and cuprum on electro-osmosis are presented. A constant voltage at 30 volts was applied for 672 hours to each different electrodes cell. The strength and dewatering of Kahang Clay were measured according to the different electrodes. The results of Kahang Clay are discussed in following chapter.