Grain Size Influence on the Compaction Aptitude and the Bearing Strength of the Gravel Lateritic Soils

Abstract

This study is carried out to appreciate the coarse elements influence of the gravel lateritic soils on the pavement behavior. The material involves not only the 0/20 mm granular particles considered in the specifications and on the laboratory tests, but also all of the material that is actually used in the construction sites. Geotechnical characterization was leaned on five differentiated granular classes of 0/20; 0/25; 0/31.5; 0/40 and 0/63 mm diameters. The sample of 0/40 mm gets the best compaction aptitude, while that of 0/31.5 mm reaches the greatest bearing strength and a good Optimum Moisture Content. According to the requirements and its bearing strengths, the material is usable up to subbase layer and its behavior depends on the grain size.