Influence of Suction Linear Distribution on Strength for Unsaturated Silty Soil

This study investigates and verifies stress–strain properties and stiffness with a variation of total suction, which is over 2.8 MPa. The developed mold is prepared for this experimental research work, which is possible to apply suction incline in the soil specimen. As results, created soil moisture distribution is not uniformity. The suction was produced by vapor pressure technique, and a circulation system was installed to the testing system that all of the specimens have hydration phenomena related to slight deformations. Relative humidity is produced using sat solutions at 20 ℃ and is confirmed with relative humidity value mentioned test code in JGS. Particularly, a variety of different suctions applied at upper portion and bottom portion for specimen that unique suction distribution as straight line produced while suction controlling. Used soil is non-plastic silty soil with three different dry densities. Previously, soil–water characteristic curve is determined including evaluation of volume change, and unconfined compressive strength is decided for interpretation to the influence of suction incline distribution. Also, the distribution in the specimen for water content is determined through axial direction. This study then considered the influence of produced suction distribution in high suction ranges on unconfined compressive strength and stiffness such as hydraulic-mechanical properties. The tendency is common regardless of dry density for non-plastic silty soil.