The effects of freeze-thaw weathering, drying-wetting weathering and changes in pore fluid chemistry on the hydraulic conductivity of Lake Agassiz clay

Simple item page
dc.contributor.authorYuen, Kellyen_US
dc.date.accessioned2009-12-03T21:17:30Z
dc.date.available2009-12-03T21:17:30Z
dc.date.issued1995en_US
dc.degree.disciplineCivil Engineeringen_US
dc.degree.levelMaster of Science (M.Sc.)en_US
dc.description.abstractThis thesis evaluates the effects of freeze-thaw weathering, drying-wetting weathering, and changes in pore fluid chemistry on the hydraulic conductivity of highly plastic Lake Agassiz clay. Lake Agassiz clay is frequently considered as a cost-effective alternative to geosynthetic membranes and liners for use in waste containment structures, as well as a natural barrier beneath contaminated sites. Four types of freeze-thaw weathering tests were conducted with each type differing by the temperature conditions imposed and the availability of water. Three methods of drying and wetting were used and were differentiated by the presence or absence of an artificial crack. Chemical tests involved the addition of varying concentrations of sodium carbonate solutions after weathering to reduce hydraulic conductivities, while other chemical permeation tests were conducted using dimethyl sulfoxide as a method of reducing the effects of freeze-thaw weathering. The equipment, specimen processing procedures and test methodology are described in detail. The results indicate that freeze-thaw weathering and specimens artificially cracked after desiccation produced an order of magnitude increase in hydraulic conductivity of Lake Agassiz clay. A slight decrease occurred in specimens which were subjected to desiccation then rewetting before permeation. Self-sealing was incomplete after each weathering process because consolidation of soil aggregates had occurred due to various suctions generated during weathering. A comparison between hydraulic conductivity values obtained ftom oedometer tests and those obtained from triaxial hydraulic conductivity tests was also performed. Results indicate that the triaxial test apparatus is a superior method for determining the hydraulic conductivity of natural clay specimens.en_US
dc.format.extentxix, 318 leaves :en_US
dc.format.extent15994716 bytes
dc.format.mimetypeapplication/pdf
dc.identifier(Sirsi) AJA-3725en_US
dc.identifier.urihttp://hdl.handle.net/1993/3692
dc.language.isoengen_US
dc.rightsopen accessen_US
dc.rightsThe reproduction of this thesis has been made available by authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research, and may only be reproduced and copied as permitted by copyright laws or with express written authorization from the copyright owner.en_US
dc.titleThe effects of freeze-thaw weathering, drying-wetting weathering and changes in pore fluid chemistry on the hydraulic conductivity of Lake Agassiz clayen_US
dc.typemaster thesisen_US
local.subject.manitobayesen_US
Files
Original bundle
Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
Thumbnail Image
Name:
Yuen, The effects.pdf
Size:
15.25 MB
Format:
Adobe Portable Document Format
Description:
Download
Collections
FGS - Electronic Theses and Practica
Manitoba Heritage Theses