Effects of storage on 54 mm piston samples of soft sensitive clay

Abstract

Effects of storage on low plasticity sensitive soft clay were studied by means of laboratory tests. The 54 mm fixed piston sampler was used, and the samples were stored in stainless steel tubes. When comparing the preliminary results on fall-cone and triaxial tests performed shortly after sampling and the following months, it is observed that there is a decrease in the undisturbed shear strength. In addition, storage reduces the measured preconsolidation pressure together with the constrained modulus. It is therefore recommended to carry out the triaxial and oedometer testing as soon as possible after the sampling. However, determination of the remoulded strength, water content and Atterberg limits may be delayed, assuming that the sample is properly sealed in the tube.