This study investigates the variations in shear strength parameters of red clay under different clay content and pH levels through direct shear tests. It analyzes the effects of normal stress, clay content, and pH on shear strength, cohesion, and the internal friction angle. The research reveals that with an increase in normal stress, the shear strength of the soil gradually increases under the same clay content and pH conditions. Under the same clay content, as the pH level becomes more acidic or alkaline, the shear strength of red clay decreases. Higher clay content in red clay results in greater shear strength under the same pH conditions. As pH becomes more acidic or alkaline, the internal friction angle and cohesion of red clay decrease under the same clay content. Compared to its effect on cohesion, pH has a more pronounced impact on the internal friction angle.
Cite this paper
Zeng, J. , Ou, C. , Zhang, J. , Lu, K. , Mo, K. , Qin, S. and Yang, B. (2023). Influence of Different pH and Clay Content on the Mechanical Properties of Red Clay. Open Access Library Journal, 10, e784. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.4236/oalib.1110784.
Pan, T., Zhao, G.T. and Huang, Y. (2021) Effect of pH Value on Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Yunnan Laterite. Bulletin of the Chinese Ceramic Society, 40, 3427-3434 3441.
Wang, Q., Chen, J., Zhao, P., et al. (2017) Experimental Study on Physical Properties and Microstructure of Red Clay Polluted by Alkali. Chinese Journal of Underground Space and Engineering, 13, 1483-1492.
Yang, X., Chen, X.-J., Song, Y., et al. (2022) Research Progress on Genesis and Physico-Mechanical Characteristics of Red Clay in China. Journal of Hebei Geo University, 45, 1-5.
Zhang, Y.D., Chen, J., Shi, P.C., et al. (2020) Experimental Study on Strength of Alkali-Treated Red Clay. Journal of Yangtze River Scientific Research Institute, 37, 170-177.
Razali, R., Rashid, A.S.A., Lat, D.C., et al. (2023) Shear Strength and Durability against Wetting and Drying Cycles of Lime-Stabilised Laterite Soil as Subgrade. Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A/B/C, 132, 103479.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pce.2023.103479
Song, Y., Geng, Y.K., Dong, S.S., et al. (2023) Study on Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Basalt Fiber-Modified Red Clay. Sustainability, 15, Article 4411.
https://doi.org/10.3390/su15054411
Li, X., Yang, Y., Zhang, H., et al. (2016) Mechanical Properties and Failure Mechanism of Cemented Red Clay under Chemical Erosion Environment. International Journal of Environment and Pollution, 59, 156-168.
https://doi.org/10.1504/IJEP.2016.079898
Dong, J. (2019) Experimental Study on the Effect of Lignin Fiber on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Guiyang Red Clay. Master’s Thesis, Guizhou University, Guiyang.
Hu, W.H., Liu, C.Q., Liu, Z.Q., et al. (2017) Experimental Research on Mechanical Strength Characteristics of Red Clay Stabilized by Cement or Lime. Subgrade Engineering, No. 5, 11-14 19.
Liu, Z.K., Guo, T. and Wang, J. (2017) Effect of the Fly Ash and Lime Fly Ash on the Mechanical Properties of Red Clay in Guilin. Hydrogeology & Engineering Geology, 44, 86-92.
